Take yourself back twenty years ago. The phenomenon of the internet was still growing, not the commonplace thing we take for granted today. There were only 361 million internet users in 2000, compared to a staggering 5 billion users today!
This reflects that the world as we know it has become increasingly reliant on technology, and will continue to do so in the future. In light of that, we’ve put together a brief list of five jobs of tomorrow that your teenager needs to be aware of. Equipping the next generation with the right skills for future employment is something we need to be thinking about now.
1. Software developers/engineers
The need for workers in the IT industry is growing all the time. We are increasingly dependent on technology for our daily lives. Software developers and engineers are the brains that design and create the computer programmes we use, like mobile apps and games. Recent years have seen a huge demand in these industries. This is reflected in the pay offered in this sector. According to PayScale, the average salary is £38,848, although it is possible to earn much more.
Those who express an interest in IT may have what it takes to build a career in this sector. Some jobs might require a certain degree or certification or you can do an apprenticeship to learn and get qualified on the job!
Skills needed:
- Analytical thinking
- Knowledge of computer coding
- Problem-solving
2. Content creators
You may have heard of the term digital influencer. If not, an influencer is someone who has a following (normally on social media), who is able to persuade (or influence) their followers to do things. Influencers make a living through things like partnerships with brands, or through advertising revenue on things they produce – like videos on YouTube or TikTok. At first glance it may not sound like a profession like the others on this list, but the influencer market is estimated to be worth around $13.8 billion today and is only forecast to grow further.
Did you know? A 2019 poll found that more UK children would rather grow up to be YouTubers than go to space!
Skills needed:
- Public speaking
- Time-management
- Awareness of trends
3. Care workers
The aging population is a global trend, not just in the UK. As we live longer, the demand for those to look after the elderly is set to rise further. However, the care profession doesn’t just include looking after the elderly. Other areas of care include childcare, therapists and nurses. It is estimated that almost 40% of future job opportunities in emerging professions will be created in the care sector. That means there is likely to be huge demand for worker in the coming years, especially those who are highly skilled and trained. Roles within the care sector extend beyond those giving care first-hand. The need for administrative roles within healthcare is also projected to rise in the years to come.
Skills needed:
- Compassion
- Patience
- Resilience
Remote teachers
Online learning has become a more normal part of life. These days, things like online webinars are normalised, with online teaching available in a wide range of subjects and interests. Many training providers have maintained virtual-only teaching, citing better standards of learning as a result. There are also a range of jobs available teaching languages like English, which has become increasingly virtual, as we interact with people from the other side of the world.
Skills needed:
- Confidence in front of camera
- IT skills
- Communication
Environmental engineers
The need to generate more sustainable sources of energy is already an extremely important topic. However, it will become even more so in the lives of our children and grandchildren. Environmental engineers will play a major role in supporting this process. The advancement of technology in future decades will help facilitate this, but people will play a key role in making this happen.
Environmental engineers will support the process of reducing air pollution and ecological damage to the planet. They also aid sustainable farming and will support the growing need for food for the future population. We are already seeing signs of this today, as we become increasingly aware of the need to protect the environment. Environmental engineers will be vital in doing this for future generations.
Skills needed:
- Mathematical knowledge
- Report writing
- Ability to interpret data
Ready to kick-start your career? Explore opportunities below.
