What if your next job doesn’t exist yet?
Future-proof your career with in-demand tech skills. Explore emerging roles like AI prompt engineering and quantum computing. Get industry-recognised certifications with Learning People and stay ahead in the evolving job market.
The tech industry has always been huge for pioneering, with new roles being created at pace. Just ten years ago, jobs like cloud engineer or AI ethicist were barely on the radar. Now, these are some of the most in-demand positions in the tech industry.
What does this mean for your career? If you’re looking to future-proof your skills, it’s time to start thinking ahead. What if your next job doesn’t exist yet?
Written by
Polly is a Marketing Executive at Learning People, bringing extensive expertise in professional training and career development, including in-demand fields like data, tech, cyber security, cloud computing, project management, and business skills.
The evolution of tech jobs
Tech is evolving faster than ever and the job market is shifting in ways we’ve never seen before. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report of 2020, 85 million jobs may be displaced by automation by this year, but 97 million new roles will emerge in their place. This report, even from five years ago, highlights the projected growth of AI jobs in place of traditional tech roles.
This means adaptability and continuous learning are critical. Employers are looking for people who are willing to upskill and embrace new tech.
Let’s talk about some of the most exciting tech roles of the future and how you can prepare for them.
AI Prompt Engineer
With the rise of AI and its increasing accessibility, businesses are investing heavily in AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude. AI prompt engineers will be responsible for fine-tuning prompts to get the best possible outputs from AI systems.
Skills:
- Natural language processing (NLP)
- Writing effective AI prompts
- Basic programming in Python or machine learning frameworks
Quantum Computing Specialist
Quantum computing is still in its early stages, but it’s got the potential to totally change industries like cyber security and finance. Companies like IBM are already investing in quantum tech, which will soon need specialised pros to develop and maintain these powerful machines.
Skills
- Quantum mechanics and computing principles
- Cryptography and data security
Ethical Hacker & Cyber Security Analyst
More and more businesses are advertising for ethical hackers to protect their systems. In the future, cyber security experts won’t just focus on IT networks; they’ll also safeguard AI models and biometric security frameworks.
Skills:
- Penetration testing and vulnerability assessments
- Cloud security and AI-driven threat detection
- Certifications like CompTIA Security+ and CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)
Extended Reality (XR) Developer
Extended Reality (XR) developers will become crucial for building virtual and augmented reality experiences. It could be designing VR training programmes or developing AR-enhanced shopping experiences
Skills:
- 3D modelling and game design
- Understanding of human-computer interaction (HCI)
Smart City Analyst
As urban areas become more connected through IoT (Internet of Things) devices, cities will require smart city analysts to design sustainable infrastructures. These jobs will use data analytics and AI to improve transport and public safety.
Skills:
- IoT and big data analytics
- Cloud computing and urban planning
- Machine learning for predictive analytics
AI Ethicist
As we discussed in The rise of AI ethics: why tech professionals need to think beyond code companies are starting to need AI ethicists to ensure tech is used responsibly. These jobs will fall at the intersection of technology, philosophy and law to ethical dilemmas in AI systems.
Skills:
- Ethical hacking and AI transparency
- Knowledge of GDPR and data privacy laws
How can you future-proof your career?
Continuous learning
The best way to future-proof your career is to keep upskilling. Online courses and certifications are great ways to learn new technologies before they become mainstream.
Transferable skills
Even if a role disappears, skills like problem-solving and critical thinking will always be in demand. Focus on skills that can be applied across industries.
Follow industry trends
Stay updated on the latest innovations by reading blogs and attending webinars.
Network
The best opportunities often come through networking. Join LinkedIn groups and connect with professionals in your field to stay ahead of job market trends.
The most exciting thing about the future of work is that it’s not set in stone. New jobs will continue to come up, offering endless possibilities for those of us willing to adapt. Regardless of whether you’re just starting your tech career or looking to change career, now is the best time to invest in yourself.
At Learning People, we offer industry-recognised certifications in data, tech, cyber security, cloud computing, project management, and more. Our expert-led training will give you the skills you need to thrive in the jobs of the future.
Related Articles
AIHow to Prepare for AI’s Impact on the UK Job Market and Careers
The "AI is stealing all the jobs" talk is scary. My best advice: don't panic, prepare. In this guide, I've used current statistics to tell a story of how AI is impacting the UK job market and how you can future-proof your career for this digital revolution.
Read More
Careers After UniAlternatives to University: What to Do Instead of Uni in the UK
University is not the only path to a strong career. In this guide, I explain the main alternatives to university, from industry-led training to apprenticeships, and show how practical, job-focused routes can help you start earning sooner and build a successful future in tech or project management.
Read More
Career Advice5 Entry-Level Tech Roles to Kickstart Your Career with No Experience
Are you looking to break into tech but have no prior work experience and are unsure where to start? I’ve broken down five entry-level tech roles that can help you get your foot in the door, explaining the qualifications that’ll help you get them, their typical salaries, and their key responsibilities.
Read More
Women in TechA history of women’s interest in gaming
Women have played a vital role in gaming’s evolution, from arcades to esports. Explore their impact on game development, culture and the future of gaming.
Read More