Top trending technologies for programmers to prepare for the jobs of tomorrow

The digital revolution has brought with it several job opportunities across various emerging domains and technologies. However, in order to survive and thrive in the digitally-evolving world, individuals need to possess the requisite skills and knowledge of the technologies that are the main drivers of this change.

The following are a few of the trending areas to which skilled programmers – both fresh graduates and professionals looking for a change of job – can turn to in order to fit into emerging job roles and profiles:  

1. Blockchain Technology

Whether it is to develop more robust cybersecurity solutions, create smart contracts, secure their intellectual property, ensure copyright protection, or to facilitate transparent transactions, companies the world over are eagerly leveraging blockchain technology to augment their digital infrastructure. On account of the immutability and trustworthiness of the distributed ledger technology, the application of this innovation can be seen everywhere from the healthcare sector to banking, finance, and the fintech industry.  It is therefore not surprising that as more and more organizations and sectors are adopting this technology – the market is growing at a rate of over 60%. The domain is thus ripe with job opportunities for computer programmers well-versed in blockchain technology, with some of the key roles being blockchain developer, blockchain designer, blockchain quality engineer, blockchain project manager, etc.

2. Artificial Intelligence

The cognitive abilities of AI like self-learning, natural language processing, advanced pattern recognition, and automation, among others, have made this cutting-edge technology the hottest trend of the digital landscape. With the upswing of technological integration by organizations worldwide into their daily operations and strategy development, the need for professionals skilled in artificial intelligence and AI-based technologies has spiked. The intensified digital penetration has ensured that the effect of AI’s presence is not confined to big organizations alone – one can find the influence of this technology in their everyday personal interactions with the digital interface as well.

From facial-recognition tools on Facebook that drive the algorithms to suggest friends to a user, to recommending videos and movies based on the analyses of your viewing-patterns on YouTube or on OTT platforms, every advanced digital activity today has AI as its driver. All of this is made possible thanks to the innovative minds of AI specialists. The scope of job roles, then, before a computer programmer to choose from includes AI Engineer, Autonomous Systems Engineer, Data Scientist, etc.

3. Machine Learning

Machine Learning is a subset of AI that effectively enables a machine to be artificially intelligent by “learning” from its experience based on the analysis of a vast amount of data. The machine can then engage in interpretative and predictive activities that organizations leverage to generate valuable insights to augment their operations, and to reduce human intervention by automating their operations. At the pace which organizations are adopting this technology, the machine learning market is estimated to hit $9.81 billion by 2022. In light of such development, the demand for ML experts is at its peak. Skilled programmers can choose to become a Machine Learning Engineer in companies looking to hire such professionals.

4. Python

From writing simple programs to developing complex digital solutions, Python is the most popular language used by computer programmers to successfully render applications powered by machine learning and data science. The pervasiveness of Python can be measured by the fact that it used by programmers working in big corporations like Google, Netflix, etc. With Python coders being in great demand across all verticals and industries, job prospects available to skilled professionals include becoming a Python Developer, Software Engineer, Software Developer, or a DevOps engineer.

5. Deep Learning

Deep Learning, like ML, is a subset of AI which enables a machine to analyse big data and generate precise predictions and insights. Organizations across the world leverage tools like predictive analysis of this AI-based technology to maximise productivity by digitally enhancing their processes to make them artificially intelligent. Therefore, Deep Learning experts are in great demand everywhere. Professionals looking to fill related positions in companies can do so by becoming a Deep Learning Software Engineer, or a Deep Learning Engineer.

6. Internet of Things

The application of AI is not limited to big companies alone. IoT comprises the combination of the AI-based technologies with electronic devices at home or small offices to make them artificially intelligent. To this end, computer programmers can also choose to become electronic engineers, or hardware developers can collaborate with AI specialists to develop and enhance the domain of Internet of Things which includes a network of interconnected smart devices like laptops, smartphones, tablets and other electronic equipment.

As per an industry report, the number of job roles that the integration of machines and algorithms in organizational operations will create by 2022 is projected to be close to 133 million all over the world. Closer home, it is estimated that more than 50,000 jobs pertaining to data science and machine learning are vacant in India. These figures spell great news for skilled computer programmers. For those who are looking for jobs but are not as proficient in technology can leverage a number of digital upskilling and re-skilling programs to acquire the essential skills in order to make the most of the jobs of tomorrow.

-- Mr Ishan Gupta, MD, Udacity India