Technology changes constantly to keep up with trends and innovations. Thus, IT professionals need to do the same. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the computer and IT field is experiencing steady growth. Jobs are projected to grow by 11% up to 2029, amounting to around 531,200 new jobs. The growing demand for IT employees stems from a greater need for specific skill sets. In line with this, here are some of the most in-demand IT skills in the industry:
Data Management
Rapid digitalization has led to an overabundance of data. So, modern organizations need IT professionals who can organize and draw value from huge data sets. Another article on Advanced Business Solutions highlights that business leaders are well aware of the importance of data. With the right talent and the appropriate data tools, organizations can extrapolate the business intelligence needed to propel them ahead of the competition. Given this, IT professionals need to be able to navigate various data tools for collection, management, and analysis.
Cybersecurity Skills
Following the rapid shift to online operations, organizations are in need of IT professionals who can protect company data and guard against cyber threats. This has led to a surge in demand for cyber talent. However, the demand far outweighs the supply. Threat Post reports that the cyber talent gap is over 4 million. This means that the industry still needs 4 million skilled professionals to answer for the demand. Fortunately, IT professionals have plenty of accessible post-degree online education opportunities that they can do without sacrificing their careers. Maryville University’s master’s degree in cybersecurity allows students to complete coursework online, providing IT employees with the flexibility needed to balance work and education. Moreover, these postgraduate degrees cover the technical aspect of cybersecurity as well as the legal side. Thus, ensuring that graduates can fortify databases while staying compliant to data privacy laws.
Knowledge of AI and ML
Artificial intelligence and machine learning programs are revolutionizing the business industry by expediting processes and automating workflows. Given its benefits, organizations are in need of IT professionals who can program the AI/ML software and maintain it throughout operations. Unfortunately, much like with cybersecurity, there is a shortage of AI specialists who can effectively manage AI tech. Though the gap isn’t as severe as that of cybersecurity, educational institutions still continue doubling down on AI-related courses. For instance, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s free courses on AI and machine learning are easily accessible through their site. Through them, IT professionals from around the world can gain the baseline knowledge they need to handle AI and ML.
Soft Skills
While technical know-how is a necessity, soft skills are just as important. IT professionals need soft skills to assist them in their day-to-day interactions and operations. CRN cites skills such as interpersonal communication, critical thinking, and change management as just some of the skills needed by IT professionals. Such skills are essential in the workplace, as these allow employees to communicate effectively and collaborate well within their respective teams.
Those are four of the most sought-after skills in the IT industry. Advanced Business Solutions makes it a point to improve these skills in the current team and future hires. This ensures quality service and continuous organizational growth. By working on internal development, ABS, as well as the IT sourcing community, will continue to grow within the industry. However it is important to note that while these may be in demand today, things may change sometime in the future due to technological advancements and innovations. You never know with such a dynamic field. Even so, ABS will stay up-to-date to ensure that the organization can adapt as needed.
By Alicia Carter
