Technologies today are changing rapidly, enabling faster advancement, and resulting in a greater rate of change. IT professionals have recognized, however, that they will have a different role in the contactless world of tomorrow, not only due to technology trends and emerging technologies. In 2021-22, IT professionals will have to continually learn, unlearn and relearn their skills (by necessity if not pleasure).
Do you understand what this means? We need to stay on top of the latest developments in technology. As well as learning what skills you’ll need to have to secure a safe job tomorrow and how you can get there by keeping an eye on the future. Most of the world’s IT workers are homebound due to the global pandemic. You could possibly secure one of the jobs that will be created by these emerging technology trends by watching for and attempting some of these trending technologies in 2022. The trends include:
- A Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence Approach
- Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
- Cutting-Edge Computing
- The Quantum Revolution
- The Augmented and Virtual Reality
- Blockchain
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- 5G
- Cyber Security
A Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence Approach
AI, or Artificial Intelligence, has been one of the biggest buzzwords of the past decade. However, it continues to be one of the fastest emerging trends because it has such a profound effect on how we live, work and play. Image and speech recognition are already done better by AI than non-AI technologies, as well as navigation apps, personal assistants on smartphones, and ride-sharing apps.
Additionally, AI will be used to analyze interactions to determine deeper relationships and insights, helping authorities to make better decisions about how to use resources such as hospitals. Through near-real-time insights into customer behaviour, companies are able to drive revenues and enhance personalized experiences.
Global spending on cognitive and AI systems will reach over $57 billion by 2022, with the AI market growing to a $190 billion industry by 2025. In the years to come, as AI spreads across sectors, new job opportunities will arise, including those in development, programming, testing, support, and maintenance. Moreover, AI also promises some of the highest salaries today: over $1,25,000 per year (machine learning engineer) to $145,000 per year (AI architect) – making it one of the most exciting new technologies to watch for!
In addition to AI, Machine Learning is also being deployed in a large number of industries, resulting in huge demand for skilled professionals. The FORESTER report predicts AI, machine learning, and automation will result in 9 per cent of new jobs in the United States by 2025, including robot monitoring professionals, data scientists, automation specialists, and content curators, which you should also keep in mind as another new tech trend!
You can land jobs like the following through mastering AI and machine learning:
- Researchers in Artificial Intelligence
- AI Engineer
- Computer Scientist
- AI Architect
Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
RPA, or Robotic Process Automation, is another technology automating jobs in the same way as AI and Machine Learning. Automating business processes with software includes handling transactions, interpreting applications, and even responding to emails. It is a way to handle repetitive tasks previously performed by humans.
RPA automation, according to a Forrester Research report, threatens the livelihood of 230 million knowledge workers or nearly 9 per cent of the global workforce. The technology may also create new jobs while transforming existing ones. More than 60% of occupations can be partially automated, but fewer than 5% can be totally automated, according to McKinsey.
RPA provides ample career opportunities for information technology professionals, including those working in development, project management, business analysis, solution architecture, and consulting roles. In addition, these jobs offer excellent salaries. You should keep an eye on this next technology trend because an RPA developer can earn over $534K per year!
The following jobs can be secured by mastering RPA:
- A developer of RPA systems
- RPA Analyst
- RPA Architect
Cutting-Edge Computing
Cloud computing has evolved from a new technology trend to a mainstream technology, with major players dominating the market. This includes Web services provider Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform. It is predicted that more businesses will move to cloud-based computing in the future as adoption grows. Cloud computing, however, is becoming a mainstream technology.
Organizations are realizing some of the shortcomings of cloud computing as the amount of data they deal with continues to grow. A major advantage of edge computing is that it can bypass the latency caused by cloud computing. This is because it can send data to data centres, where it can be processed. Alternatively, it might exist at the edge, closer to the point of need. Edge computing is, therefore, suitable for processing time-sensitive data at a remote location without or with limited access to centralized computing this makes it useful in situations where centralized computing is not available.
As the Internet of Things (IoT) devices become more prevalent, edge computing will grow in importance. Approximately $6.72 billion will be generated by the global edge computing market by 2022. In the coming years, we will continue to see a lot of development in this new technology trend, creating various jobs, primarily for software engineers.
Staying on top of cloud computing (including cutting-edge technologies such as quantum computing) will give you incredible opportunities like:
- Engineer specializing in cloud reliability
- Specialized in cloud infrastructure
- Cloud architecture and security
- Cloud engineer with DevOps experience
The Quantum Revolution
Quantum computing, defined as computing that takes advantage of quantum properties like superposition and entanglement, represents the next significant technology trend. Due to its ability to easily query, monitor, analyze and act on data, regardless of its source, this amazing technology trend is also participating in the prevention of Coronavirus outbreaks and helping to develop potential vaccines. Besides banking and finance, quantum computing also finds applications in high-frequency trading, fraud detection, and management of credit risk.
In today’s world, quantum computers are many times faster than regular computers, and many of the biggest companies are now making innovations in the field of quantum computing, such as Splunk, Honeywell, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, Google, and more. Approximately $2.5 billion is projected to be generated by the global quantum computing market by 2029. Aside from having experience in quantum mechanics, linear algebra, probability, information theory, and machine learning, you need to be knowledgeable in these fields as well.
The Augmented and Virtual Reality
A new generation of technology is on the horizon with VR, AR, and ER. In VR, a user immerses themselves in an environment, while in AR, the user experiences enhanced images of that environment. This technology trend was originally used for gaming. However, it is also being used for training, such as the VirtualShip training app for U.S. Coast Guard, Navy and Army ship captains.
The continued integration of these technologies into our everyday lives is expected to happen by 2022. AR/VR often work in conjunction with other emerging technologies we mentioned in this article. They have immense potential in many areas, including training, entertainment, education, marketing, and even rehabilitation following an injury. A hospital or museum could use either type of system for teaching doctors to operate, for improving theme parks, or for marketing, such as this Pepsi Max bus shelter.
The AR/VR market in the year 2019 was 14 million units. By 2022, the global AR and VR market will be worth $209.2 billion, creating a slew of opportunities for everyone working in this industry.
Although some employers might be looking for opticians to fill positions, you shouldn’t overlook the fact that getting started in VR doesn’t require a lot of specialized knowledge – a bit of programming knowledge and a willing attitude might be enough to land a job; another reason why you should keep your eyes peeled for this new technology!
Blockchain
Many people associate blockchain technology with cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin; however, blockchain technology provides a wealth of security benefits for other purposes as well. Blockchain can be explained in the simplest possible way as data that can only be added to, not taken away from or changed. You are creating a chain of data, which is why you call it a “chain” of data. The fact that previous blocks cannot be altered is what makes the system so secure. Further, blockchains depend on consensus, so they can’t be controlled by a single entity. Transactions can be overseen or verified without having to rely on a third party.
Blockchain is being implemented in several industries, and the demand for blockchain professionals is also rising as the adoption rate of blockchain technology increases. The professional who develops and implements blockchain architecture and solutions can be seen from the perspective of a bird’s eye view. A blockchain developer makes an average annual salary of $469,000.
It is a good time to start your career in Blockchain if you are fascinated by this technology and wish to make it your profession. If you are interested in Blockchain, then you will need experience with programming languages, OOPS, database design, data structures, web app development, and networking.
By learning blockchain, you can maximize your potential in a variety of industries and fields:
- Expert in risk management
- Technological architecture
- Cryptocurrency Community Manager
- Web Developer
Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things is another emerging trend. There are now a lot of “things” that come equipped with WiFi connectivity, which means they are able to connect to the Internet and to one another. That’s known as the Internet of Things (IoT). As part of the Internet of Things, devices, home appliances, cars, and many other products will be able to communicate and exchange data online.
Our use of and reliance on IoT already extends to consumers. For those of us who forget to lock our doors before leaving for work, we can do so remotely. In addition to preheating our ovens, we can track our fitness on our Fitbits while we are heading home from work. In addition to the personal gains, businesses are likely to gain as well. As data is collected and analyzed, IoT can enable businesses to improve their safety, efficiency, and decision-making. Predictive maintenance can be enabled, medical care can be accelerated, customer service can be improved, and benefits we cannot even imagine.
By 2030, there are expected to be 50 billion connected devices in use worldwide, creating a massive network of interconnected devices that encompass everything from smartphones to kitchen appliances. 1.1 trillion U.S. dollars are forecast to be spent on the Internet of Things (IoT) by 2022. The market will grow in the coming years due to new technologies like 5G.
When it comes to working in this trending industry, you’ll have to learn about information security, artificial intelligence, machine learning, networking, hardware interfacing, data analytics, automation, and you’ll also need experience in design and manufacturing.
5G
5G follows the IoT as next-generation technology. Having made browsing the internet, using data-driven services, and enhancing internet bandwidth for streaming on Spotify or YouTube possible with 3G and 4G technologies, 5G will revolutionize our lives as we know it. Using technology like AR and VR, as well as cloud-based gaming services like Google Stadia, NVidia GeForce Now, and others, we are enabling new gaming experiences. Smart factories and HD cameras that assist in traffic management, smart grids, and smart retail are expected to take advantage of it.
Many companies are now working on 5G applications, such as Verizon, T-Mobile, Apple, Nokia Corp., Qualcomm. It is predicted that 4G networks will cover 40% of the world by 2024 and that 5G networks will handle 25% of all mobile traffic data. Therefore, you should keep an eye on the 5G trend, and also prepare for it.
Cyber Security
Cyber security might not come across as an emerging technology since it has existed for quite some time, but it is still evolving just like any other technology. New threats are constantly emerging, so security is constantly evolving. These malicious hackers are not planning to stop any time soon as they try to access data in an illegal way. Even the most stringent security measures won’t stop them from breaking into the network. Adopting new technologies to enhance security also contributes to the increase. Cybersecurity will remain a trending technology as long as we continue to have hackers since it will continue to evolve to defend against them.
Cybersecurity jobs are growing three times faster than other tech jobs, which is proof of the demand for cybersecurity professionals. Approximately 60% of organizations will use cybersecurity risk as the primary determinant of engagements with third parties and business transactions by 2025, according to Gartner.
In spite of the challenges and uncertainty of the field, it can provide lucrative six-figure incomes, with roles ranging from consultant to manager
- An ethical hacker
- Specializes in malware analysis
- Security Engineer
- Chief Information Security Officer
Technology is a promising career choice for anyone who is curious about it and wants to stay on top of it.
