Careers of the future are built on a technology foundation

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is in full swing and careers of the future will all involve the use of computers, but the sector with the fastest growing potential for job opportunities is by far technology.

According to a report published by The Balance Careers, the seven fastest-growing tech jobs are:

1. Database Administrator
They manage and organise a company’s data and ensure that the data is stored correctly and safely. Database administrators understand database languages such as Oracle, MySQL, MS Access, dBase, and FoxPro.
Projected future growth: 11% by 2026

2. Software Developer
Software developers work with computer programmers to build operating systems for user-facing applications such as word processing and design programs.
Projected future growth: 24% by 2026

3. Web Developer
A web developer uses programming languages to write online software for websites and applications used for social media.
Projected future growth: 15% by 2022

4. Computer Systems Analyst
They investigate computer systems and procedures, finding ways to overhaul and make them better, they also identify glitches and bugs. Computer system analysts understand IT and business, and they consult with managers to learn what the IT needs of a business are.
Projected future growth: 9% by 2026

5. Mobile App Developer
New products and apps are created by mobile app developers. More and more companies across industries are making use apps, every conceivable business or interest group has an app.
Projected future growth: 57% by 2020

6. Market Research Analyst
Market research analysts collect and interpret data to determine what products and services people want and what they are willing to pay. Market researchers come from a variety of backgrounds, such as statistics, maths, or computer science, business administration, social sciences, and communications. They are the people who tell marketers what to sell to whom.
Projected future growth: 32% by 2022

7. Information Security Analyst
They are the people who coordinate and implement the protection of an organisation’s computer networks and systems.
Projected future growth: 28% by 2026

Why taking a tech job is good for South Africa
The growth of the tech sector has more advantages than just being a job opportunity for many. The industry can benefit South Africa in a very real way, making it a safer and more pleasant place to be. Alan Knott-Craig, in an article published on BizCommunity, says the 4IR can change South Africa in these very tangible ways:

1. Better behaviour
People tend to behave better if they think they are being watched. Cameras on roads and in suburbs have already seen people behaving better, at the risk and fear of being exposed or caught.

2. Connect faster
With the internet and social media connections, it is much easier to find like-minded friends or even start a relationship. Social justice issues also come under the attention of the masses much quicker and it tends to build a bridge between communities.

3. Accessible education
The internet is providing access to information that was previously limited to people with access to research books and libraries. Now, anyone with an internet connection can expand their own education, formally or informally.

4. Safer streets
CCTV cameras and communal Wi-Fi cameras will help the police identify criminals using biometrics, and can help to track them down before they commit any further crimes

5. Better democracy
Technology is changing policymaking to be more adaptive, human-centred, inclusive, sustainable, and increasingly frictionless. Public participation across the board has also improved, thanks to the internet and social media ensuring that news spreads quickly.

6. Get healthier
The health trackers that many people already wear, will lead the way. In time, doctors and hospitals will monitor your health remotely.

7. Better travel
Smartphone navigation apps such as Google Maps and Waze are already helping us avoid heavy traffic and accidents on the roads, and in years to come driverless cars will do that. Our productivity will increase, and our insurance premiums will decrease.

8. More things
The Internet of Things will see us having our homes fully connected to the internet, having the ability to turn the geyser off and the air conditioner on, from the office. Your fridge will tell you what food you need to buy, and the plumbing system will let you know if there is a leaky tap anywhere.

9. Global shopping
Although this is already a reality for us, globalisation will see it become even more prolific.

10. Distribution disruption
The postal service in South Africa is still a challenge, but in time we may see drones delivering our parcels.

12. Access to finance
Smartphones, blockchain, and social media are introducing new ways to make sending and receiving payment, and storing and investing money without physical cash easier, cheaper, and more transparent.

The expansion of technology has also allowed online education to progress the way it has, and UJ is staying at the forefront of developments by offering courses, fully online. In light of these ongoing changes, UJ has also tailored some of its non-technology focused offerings such as its Master of Business Administration programme to equip graduates with digital know-how and the understanding of how to use and manage new technology for business success. Click here to have a look at the courses on offer at UJ and begin your online education journey.