Key skills in the technology sector in 2018

The past year has seen rapid change in many sectors, much of it fuelled by innovations in the technology space. As businesses across all industries continue to realise the potential that lies within a wide range of technologies, those professionals with the skills needed to implement this change are going to be in particularly high demand.

Here at Michael Page Technology, we have put together a list of the most in-demand skills within the technology sector. Our team of specialist technology consultants work closely with organisations ranging from SMEs to global blue-chip companies and know exactly which skills are set to be in high demand in 2018.

  1. Machine learning - Uptake of AI and machine learning is set to accelerate as innovation continues.
     
Last year was undoubtedly a big one in the world of AI and machine learning, with both becoming increasingly ubiquitous in a number of industries. 2018 is set to see this trend accelerate rapidly. Innovations in data and automation are happening all the time and businesses know there are vast opportunities to cash in should they have the expertise needed to do so. With machine learning able to speed up the pace at which these businesses can capitalise there is set to be high demand for this change-driving skill-set.
  1. Big Data - Hadoop & Tableau are increasingly influential tech, bringing big transformation opportunities.
     
The rapid expansion of the Internet of Things has added innumerable new sources of Big Data into the data landscape and is set to big one of the big trends in 2018 and beyond. Streamlining decision making and decreasing cost is the golden nugget that innovative data processing can harvest and technologies such as Hadoop and Tableau are here to help. There is a huge competitive advantage to be had for those businesses that are flexible enough to manage and transform big data into actionable intelligence and an even bigger opportunity for those who can put these theories into practice.
  1. Python programming - High skill levels in this programming language can really bulk out your pay packet.
     
Python is an important programming language due to the fact that it is used in so many other key elements of the technology sector, such as data processing, visualisation and machine learning; all top skills in their own right. Organisations are looking for quick wins, efficiencies and cost/ time-saving initiatives. Python fits the bill in that it makes it possible to build programmes and products quickly, something which is always music to the ears of senior stakeholders. Because of this, more IT leaders are turning to Python than ever before and demand for skilled programmers is on the rise.
  1. AI engineering - Artificial Intelligence is undoubtedly one of the most important and exciting technologies at play.
     
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is undoubtedly one of the most important and exciting technologies currently in play and the one which has the biggest potential to change the world as we know it. AI is set to impact almost every industry and a vast number of job roles. A challenge many early adopters face is the high levels of complexity involved, which requires not only a grasp of technical aspects but of how human intelligence works. It is uncommon to find a mix of such skills in one person so organisations are on the lookout for those who have them.
  1. Cyber security expertise - It is no secret that there is a global shortage of cyber security talent.
     
It is no secret that there is a global shortage of cyber security talent, with many jobs unfilled due to a very shallow talent pool. The gap between supply and demand may only widen as threats such as ransomware, spyware and phishing become more sophisticated. As a result, the barriers which protect against these threats must evolve; CISSP & CISM certifications are leading the way. All the while more and more organisations are realising the significance of the threats and moving to take action. All of this just means that those who do have the requisite skills are highly coveted.
  1. Data visualisation - Analysing data is one thing but can you bring it to life?
     
Understanding how to track, process and analyse data is a highly prized skill and businesses are rapidly waking up to the potential which lies within their store of information. However, data analysts can really stand out in their ability to visualise data and make it accessible and actionable for non-specialists within a business. Can you show a Finance Director how they can utilise data to improve margins? Can you make a data lead presentation easily accessible for an HR team needing to take action based on your findings? If so, you are giving yourself a great competitive advantage.
  1. Data compliance - GDPR is revolutionising the way that companies use customer data; are you on top of the changes?
     
With General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) coming into effect in May 2018, skills in the area of data management, compliance and regulation will come into sharp focus next year. Every business is likely to be affected in some way by GDPR so professionals with the skills necessary to traverse the transition and legacy of the legislative changes will be in high demand. As data compliance is at the very heart of GDPR, it is likely to remain a highly prized skill throughout 2018 and beyond.
  1. Blockchain - The technology behind crypto currencies is set to have a profound impact on many areas of business.
     
While there remains fierce debate over the long-term future viability of crypto currencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, one thing is not up for debate: blockchain. The core technology which underpins Bitcoin has widespread potential impact across all sectors, particularly finance. From data services to micro-working, blockchain offers the promise of new and simpler ways to be sure of information. This is a new way to store information, react when something happens, authenticate processes and to do it all more securely than before. The impact on future skills sets could be profound.
  1. SQL development - Structured Query Language (SQL) is a powerful tool which can handle significant amounts of data.
     
Databases sit at the heart of the information revolution. Organisations small and large are rushing to realise the untapped potential of the data they hold, and in many cases the data they didn't even know they held. This is where a skilled Structured Query Language (SQL) developer comes in and can implement drastic change to an organisation by structuring and managing their data. In tandem with other complimentary programming and development languages, SQL can be a powerful tool in the pocket of the modern IT professional.
Don’t be left behind in 2018. As leading recruiters in the UK and with a global network, we have an extensive database of top talented professionals to take your business to the next level in 2018. 
For a confidential discussion about how we can ensure you have the right talent with the right skills on your team, get in touch with one of our specialist consultants. Why not get in touch today and find out how we could find the skilled candidates you need to drive your business forward in 2018 and beyond?