Hence, to keep IT systems running efficiently, a large workforce is needed to maintain networks, create new software, and ensure information security [1]. While the area of IT sector is getting hotter and hotter, however, there are some specific set of skills that would be of high demand because most companies keep up with the fast-paced advancements in technology, so they are doing their best in hiring IT experts that would help them in achieving their business objectives.
Therefore, this article presents six (6) good set of IT specialized jobs that are expected to still be in strong demand in the nearest future.
Six (6) in-demand IT Jobs for the future
1. Database Administrator
A database administrator (DBA) manages database using specialized software. He or she ensures that data are efficiently secured, stored, and accessible to authorized users whenever necessary. A DBA can work in almost any industry, but they typically work for companies in computer systems design and support.
While some database manager jobs require a bachelor’s or master’s degree in management information systems, some employers have begun looking for database managers who simply have strong knowledge of database languages, such as Structures Query Language (SQL) [1].
Furthermore, a DBA must have an understanding of database languages (Oracle, MySQL, MS Access, dBase, FoxPro etc), the most commonly used being Structured Query Language, also known as SQL [2]. Estimated future growth: 11% by 2026.
2. Software Developers
The innovative brain behind a computer Programme is a software developer. Several software developers design, create, install, test, and maintain software applications/system, while others build systems. They usually work alongside computer Programmemers [2]. A software developer must be up-to-date on the latest computer hardware and software, attentive to details to identify possible problems, has extensive knowledge of one or more Programmeming languages. Also, a software developer must know how a business works to develop software according to the company’s needs.
Software developers typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a computer-related field. A degree in mathematics is acceptable in some cases [2]. Estimated future growth: 24% through 2026.
3. Web Developer
The role of a web developer is to create a website that would shape visitors’ experiences and attract more of their attention. The website must be easy to navigate especially to those people who just visited the site for the first time. A web developer may work in multiple Programmeming languages and operating systems.
Another important element of a web developer’s job is website maintenance both because new features need to be added or old features need to be updated. Therefore, web developers need to ensure that these changes are efficiently implemented without upsetting the website’s features.
Employers typically look for computer-related education and relevant work experience. It is reported that, with the high demand for these skills, a formal degree is not always required [2]. Estimated future growth: 15% by 2022.
4. Mobile App Developers
Mobile app developer creates an application that is intended to be used for a specific purpose. It is to meet the needs of the clients who will be using the app for business, work-related activities, personal need, and for whatever need that the app may serve.
Furthermore, mobile app developers are not only focusing on creating apps for mobile phones alone but also for tablets, netbooks, laptops, or desktops in different operating systems.
Among the top 10 best jobs of the future listed by ThinkAdvisor, mobile app developer is listed at number three. To be a mobile developer, you must have a background in software engineering or computer science [2]. Estimated future growth: 57% through 2020.
5. Market Research Analyst
Market research analysts assist companies in analyzing and interpreting the kind of products people wish to buy in the market, the kind people that require those products, and at what price. Specifically, they do that by collecting data on consumers and products. They analyze the data and report the findings for use by their clients and colleagues.
Market research analyst is listed at number 9 of the top 10 best jobs of the future by ThinkAdvisor. This job involves specialist from different sets of background. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some of these specialists obtained their degrees in statistics, math, or computer science while others have backgrounds in business administration, the social sciences, or communications [1]. Estimated future growth: 32% through 2022.
6. Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts are responsible for managing and ensuring that some security measures are being executed efficiently, to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems. One of the keys of features of information security analysts is, their adaptability to change as a security breach can arise at any point in time.
Most information security analysts have a well-rounded computer education, including a bachelor’s in computer science, Programmeming, or a related discipline. Given the demand in this field, colleges are responding to majors in information security [2]. Estimated future growth: 28% through 2026.
Conclusion & Recommendations
The aforementioned future IT jobs were not the only ones in demand but certainly among the top list. If you happen to be one of them, I would advise you to use your set of skills and experience to explore the things you are capable of doing and start generating money out of it.
Furthermore, I would like to recommend a few websites, where people could visit and learn new skills or further improve their set of skills for free.
1. www.coursera.org (founded by Prof. Andrew et al. in 2011)
2. www.khanacademy.org (founded by Salman Khan in 2007)
3. www.alison.com (founded by Mike Feerick in 2007)
Consequently, I believe with these free online IT courses, almost everyone would be able to have something doing in this IT world. It’s a very big area with lots of opportunities waiting to be exploited.
Reference
1. Lauren Csorny, “Careers in growing field of information technology services,” Beyond the Numbers: Employment and Unemployment, vol. 2, no. 9 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2013),
2. Laurence Bradford, “The 7 Fastest-Growing Tech Jobs,” 15th May 2019.
3. Daniel Greenspan “Best Computer Jobs for the Future,” 5th September 2019.
Dr. Ahmed Abba Haruna is a Senior Lecturer of Computer Science in Skyline University Nigeria. He has a PhD. in Information Technology from University of Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), Malaysia.
You can join the conversation on facebook @SkylineUniversityNG and on twitter @SkylineUNigeria