It’s 2023, and technology seems to have become more infused in our daily lives than ever. The fast-paced digital world of today has changed both education and job market dynamics completely. Old skills are now outdated, while more and more students are taking a keen interest in a tech career. Companies and industries now demand newer, more refined skills from computer graduates and professionals across various industries. However, to stay with the job market trends, the process of learning new skills while pursuing a bachelor’s or undergraduate degree shouldn’t stop.
In this article, we look at the top 10 skills that you should look forward to learning to stay in demand in this highly competitive and fast-growing industry of today.
1) Cyber security:
Phishing, hacking, and encryption are all buzzwords that you must have heard. The technology industry has grown significantly since the turn of the century, but so have the security concerns attached to it. Cyber security is the foundation for any computing network, and any breach can cause financial and intellectual property losses. Organizations and businesses continue to look for ways to protect their data from looming cyber-attack threats. In 2023, this is one skill that is likely to keep growing in demand. Learning different ways to strengthen cybersecurity, like penetration testing, will be an essential addition to your overall skill base. This is where having a bachelor’s in cyber security provides you with the necessary foundation to build on.
2) Cloud computing:
Cloud computing is serverless computing that is increasingly becoming popular in 2023. The rise of remote work has led to cloud computing skills becoming handier than ever. Businesses want to store and process large amounts of data. Cloud computing provides hosting servers that these businesses can use to store data. Large databases can be easily uploaded to cloud storage, freeing up memory space. The design and implementation of cloud-based services is not going out of fashion anytime soon and is one skill that you should potentially target while pursuing a CS degree.
3) Artificial Intelligence:
To someone living a hundred years ago, machines that think like humans would’ve been an absurdity. The growth of AI has made this a possibility, and it has become the hottest prospect as of now. Predictive text chatbots that use AI, like ChatGPT and Bard, now have record amounts of daily users. They can also squeeze useful information out of big data sets. Another usage of AI is linked to robotics and automation. Intelligent machines can now learn how humans think and act on interaction with them and replicate it. With the increasing usage of smart machines in every sector, people who can develop these AI models are in high demand.
4) UI/UX:
Simply put, UX is user experience, and UI is the interface. What should a computer program provide? Most would say easy usage and convenience. UI/UX is the link between users and computer programs and helps in their interaction. It is the source of valuable user feedback to organizations. Big companies are increasingly looking for talented UI/UX people since the better a company’s UX and UI, the better it functions with its clients. Learning this skill will open multiple opportunities.
5) Data science:
One of the hottest skill prospects right now would be data science. Data is a valuable commodity in 2023, and to organize, compile, and put a structure to it is data science. Data essentially is the driver of important company decisions since it is used to identify patterns and user behavior. This is why if you learn how to deduce meaning out of big datasets, you’ll be wanted by many potential employers.
6) Programming languages/basic programming:
Another skill you can master is getting a grip on programming. This could be learning a particular programming language like Python or JavaScript. Almost every tech company needs developers and programmers to handle complex algorithms. It’s a skill that stays relevant in the future. You can decide to learn a language deeply while pursuing a computer-related degree.
7) Internet of Things (IoT):
Multiple intelligent devices are connected to a network. Their ability to communicate with each other in real time is what makes IOT a booming prospect. This communication allows for the accuracy of information, which is key in the industry. Particularly, IOT sensors have found multiple uses in smart devices, health care, and agriculture. There will be an increase in demand for professionals who understand IOT development as the industry grows.
8) Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR):
You’ve probably seen one of those goggles people use to experience virtual reality simulations. Augmented or virtual reality starts at the edge of the virtual and real world. Content is used virtually to appear close to reality. Now, it is being used in healthcare, gaming, and education and is expected to grow in other industries. Augmented reality is a relatively new field, and tailoring your courses to learn more about it can pay future dividends.
9) Blockchain:
Cryptocurrencies have seen an immense increase in popularity over the past few years. Bitcoin and other popular currencies operate on blockchain. A beneficial feature of blockchain is security for transactions as they are recorded and maintained regularly. Blockchain has seen increasing usage in supply chain and finance as it promotes smooth and decentralized access to money. Learning the fundamentals can land you a lot of job interviews once you graduate.
10)5G
Internet speeds have improved significantly from when it was launched in the 90s. With 5G technology, speeds ranging from 100-300 megabytes per second can be used for data transfer. This opens it to usage in sectors such as telecommunications, IOT, and virtual reality. Such fast transfer of data also helps keep data updated in real time. As more and more users shift to 5G, a potential job market opens for people who understand how it works.
Conclusion:
Technology has continued its evolution throughout the years ever since man made the first machine. They’ve gotten simpler to use and more intelligent than ever. Imagining a future without more technological development is difficult, and it will keep on advancing. Getting up to speed with it requires new skills. Trying to learn a new skill can always seem like a challenge at first, but with time comes expertise. Expertise that will be valuable for you going ahead. So, if you’re pursuing courses in a technology-related field, developing these 10 skills will open a new world of possibilities for you in the future.