IT Skills in Demand Right Now: Boost Your Career
If you're looking to future-proof your career, then developing your IT skills is a must! More importantly, nurturing the IT skills in demand will enhance your curriculum vitae. The IT sector is growing rapidly and as many skilled professionals look to launch a career in IT, you need to make yourself a shining beacon to stand out. So, what in-demand skills can advance your IT career?
Cybersecurity Skills
Cybersecurity skills are in demand, with the rise of growing threats there is a greater need for IT employees with skills in data protection, threat detection, ethical hacking, and incident response. From foreign actors to internet trolls, people try to breach security for fun and having the specific skills to protect your employer is a must.
Developing your cybersecurity skills also arms with you various soft skills that can transfer to a range of other positions, including leadership, data analysis, data management, adaptability, communication, and identifying and managing risks.
Cloud Computing Skills
Everything revolves around cloud platforms. With the need to maximise storage outside of a device, we rely heavily on cloud storage—supported by vast networks of global data centres that power platforms like Google Cloud, AWS, and Azure. Whether a business uses one of these services or a combination, cloud computing skills are a big winner for IT professionals. A clear understanding of programming languages and networking is a must. The specific skills employers look for include DevOps, cloud architecture, cloud security, and platform management.
If you can strengthen these core cloud computing skills, you can apply for big technology jobs.
Data Analysis and Big Data Skills
If you're looking for a priceless skill set, it's the ability to extract valuable insights from complex datasets. Data Analysis and Big Data skills arm you with the ability to handle large datasets, advanced analytics, data mining, and understanding of the big data characteristics, and emerging technologies.
The skills include data visualisation, data mining, machine learning, and statistical analysis. In addition to the technical skills, the soft skills you will develop include attention to detail, critical thinking, communication, domain knowledge and problem-solving,
Software Development Skills
There is and will continue to be an ongoing need for skilled software developers and programmers. This encompasses various soft and technical skills that are essential for designing and maintaining software applications.
What specific skills are required? One of the foremost skills in software development is the programming languages like Python, Java, and JavaScript. Understanding data algorithms, structures, database management, mobile app development and web development is key. The soft skills include communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and time management.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Skills
AI and ML are interconnected because machine learning is a subset of artificial intelligence and AI is more encompassing. AI is focused on enabling the machine to carry out specific tasks that historically rely on human intelligence. ML is focused on using algorithms that will facilitate computers learning from data without the need for specific programming. This field is growing in popularity and includes specific skills including natural language processing, communication, deep learning, algorithm development, interdisciplinary knowledge, programming, critical thinking, risk assessment, problem-solving, data handling, and statistical analysis. A good example of ML is a chatbot while a good example of AI is a smart assistant.
Networking and Infrastructure Skills
Network and infrastructure cover a wide range of the technical skills necessary for designing, implementing, and managing networks. The specific networking and infrastructure skills include adaptability, cloud networking, communication, network administration, problem-solving, and system administration. Understanding the standards necessary for secure network infrastructure and security, and troubleshooting skills. There's also a need for programming language knowledge, server administration, and operating systems.
Project Management and Agile Methodologies
Agile methodologies break things down into sprints, which are small manageable cycles that give teams the freedom to deliver value incrementally and adapt to change. It's a more effective approach to project management in software development than the traditional, linear approach. The requirements often change with time in software development, so bite-size steps are an effective way to manage the process. It's iterative, incremental, flexible, adaptable, and collaborative.
The key skill necessary for project management and agile methodologies is an understanding of Agile and Scrum.
Final Thoughts
There are many in-demand IT skills, whether you're interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity, or thinking about cloud computing skills, data analysis and big data skills, AI and ML skills, networking and infrastructure skills or project management and agile methodologies. These skills are the most in-demand in the IT sector and developing any of these will help you get ahead.
Whether you're looking to develop your skills in data science, obtain new IT certifications or bolster your CV, an IT software course can equip you with the necessary skills to take your career to the next level. If you want to upskill and explore new career opportunities, an IT course will elevate your technical and soft skills.