More than 1,000,000 tech jobs remained unengaged in the US in 2020 due to a lack of specific information technology skills. However, you can make a difference by arming yourself with tech skills that are in high demand in 2021, along with a set of soft skills and practical experience. Tech skills like AI, machine learning and edge computing can help you land prestigious job positions at FAANG and other reputed IT giants. With it can come superlative career growth and a sea of perks like excellent appraisals, paid vacations, business travel accident insurance, etc. In fact, a PayScale report reveals that possessing a combination of high-demand tech skills and soft skills boosts compensation by upto 26%.
This guide offers a comprehensive idea on the various sought-after information technology technical skills of 2021. Take a look!
TABLE OF CONTENTS Most In-Demand Tech Skill List of 2021
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Cybersecurity Information Systems Management Data Analytics and Data Science Project Management Software Development (web, mobile) Programming Cloud Computing Virtualization Internet of Things and Edge Computing Healthcare IT Soft Skills to Develop for Career Growth
Time management Accountability Critical approach Adaptability Communication Teamwork Most In-Demand Tech Skill List of 2021 Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) AI is one of the fastest-growing technological fields and is expected to produce more than 130 million jobs by the break of 2026. AI can handle various tasks like image recognition and classification, speech, and facial recognition, with accuracy.
Machine learning, on the other hand, assists in data mining to help analyze for insights and execute rule-based tasks seamlessly. ML also helps in pattern recognition.
With a high job salary for software engineers specialized in AI (ranging between $100,000 and $250,000), it is estimated that AI skills will witness a 71% rise in job demands.
Skills: Experienced ML professionals should be able to work with natural language processing, deep learning, and neural networks. Fluency in TensorFlow, R, Java, and the likes are in demand among recruiters looking for AI specialists. Developing a Chatbox is another skill that is in heavy demand among many tech companies.
Careers in this sector include machine learning developers, ML robotics, ML engineers, researchers, and computer vision engineers.
Cybersecurity It is one of the most sought-after technical skills these days, required to combat almost 3000 reported security breaches every year. Cybersecurity is a collection of technologies, processes, and services responsible for the protection of networks and devices from unforeseen attacks and unauthorized access. It has several branches, two of the fastest-growing being application development security and cloud security.
Cybersecurity specialists are paid anywhere between $120,000 and $200,000 a year, and are estimated to have a 31% rise in demand between 2019 and 2029.
Skills: Cybersecurity specialists need to be skilled at information security, network security, and vulnerability assessment. The professional can acquire special certificates, such as Certified Ethical Hacker and Certified Information Systems Security Professional. In-depth knowledge of Information technology skills such as knowledge of programming languages and networks, risk assessment, and system administration is also preferred.
Promising careers in this sector include ethical hackers, cybersecurity analysts, and security engineers.
Information Systems Management As per the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the information and systems management sector can experience a growth rate of nearly 10% between 2019 and 2028. If you are working as a system information manager, you will need to develop strategies streamlined with business goals to support operations. ITSM is a stimulating factor for smoother business performance and achieves overall organizational stability.
A career in information systems management can fetch an average salary of nearly $90,000 annually, making it one of the most sought-after information technology skills.
Skills: Information systems managers need to show prior work experience in ITSM and preferably hold a Master's degree in business administration. Adequate expertise in software development is seen as a bonus. One can also enroll in MIS or management information systems degrees to get acquainted with business operation activities.
Data Analytics and Data Science Most businesses rely on data for decision-making purposes, thereby making data science and data analytics two of the most in-demand skills of 2021. Data analytics involves examining raw data trends and implementing findings into mechanical processes and algorithms. Data science involves the use of advanced analytical techniques to extract information from structured and unstructured data.
Professionals in this field can draw a salary anywhere between $100,000 and $140,000. It is touted to be an emerging in-demand role and is projected to grow at 14% in the upcoming years.
Skills: The list of technical skills sought after by recruiters for this profession includes software engineering, statistical analysis capabilities, and data wrangling. Data scientists also need to know machine learning and programming languages such as Python and Java. Data visualization is also a preferred capability.
Careers in this sector include data architects, business analysts, and database administrators.
Project Management PMI survey reveals that the tech industry will need more than 20 million project managers by 2027. Communication and change management is the need of the hour in a continually developing technology sector. Project managers are entrusted to help transition between different projects and help strategize the project life cycle for successful delivery. Resolving conflicts is also an important role of project managers .
This career comes with a hefty annual package starting from $85,000 and going up to $125,000 for advanced roles.
Skills: Previous experience in project lifecycle management is preferred by recruiters . Agile scheduling skills can also benefit people looking to upgrade their information technology skills.
Software Development (web, mobile) With the era of digitalization continuing to usher in, the demand for computer and mobile software, and well-designed websites is skyrocketing. Software development involves the design and maintenance of solutions and systems for several platforms. Two popular specializations are software development for mobile operating systems and website development.
Software developers typically earn around $90,000 to $120,000. As per the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the growth rate of jobs in this field is projected at 21% in the coming years.
Skills: Both mobile and web developers should be proficient in programming languages such as Python, C, C++ to Java and JavaScript. Knowledge of DevOps is highly demanded among top companies recruiting for mobile development. Web developers, on the other hand, need to be skilled in SEO and SEM. Popular jobs in this sector include UX designers, iOS and Android mobile developers.
Programming Expert knowledge in programming languages has a surging demand with the current incessant technological advancement. Developing, testing, and building programs and apps require programming skills.
An average base salary between $65,000 and $125,000 for roles in advanced sectors makes programming (in one or more language) a preference among people looking to expand their list of technical skills.
Proficiency in Go, Java, and the likes as such are preferred. You can also stay ahead of the race by acquiring knowledge in newer languages like Scala, Docker, Kotlin, etc. The demand for programming as a skill is expected to grow at 22% by 2028 as per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, making it a career with a wide array of opportunities.
Skills: If you are looking to expand your programming skills, you can take online courses or take courses on programming platforms like Codechef and the likes. According to Stack Overflow, Scala and Objective-C, along with Go, are some of the highest paying programming skills.
Cloud Computing A significant number of businesses are moving and operating from the cloud away from traditional server infrastructures. The cloud computing market is projected to create nearly a $330 billion market opportunity. Cloud computing essentially involves storing and delivering data, programs, and other computing resources over the internet.
Cloud computing specialists draw salaries ranging from $120,000 to $170,000. As per a GlobeNewswire report, this sector is projected to grow at a CAGR of 17.5% between 2020 and 2025.
Skills: Cloud experts and cloud engineers need to plan, design, develop and maintain cloud computing solutions. They also need to be well acquainted with software development and related services. Some of the in-demand tech qualifications include certification in Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure. In-depth knowledge of computer programming languages such as Java and Linux is also preferred.
Careers in this sector include cloud security engineers, data science engineers, cloud architects, and cloud consultants.
Virtualization More than 90% of businesses in the United States are already using server virtualization, while virtualization in storage and application is experiencing higher demands as well. Application virtualization rates can grow at nearly 18% in the upcoming years, as per a Spiceworks survey.
Salary in this sector varies between $65,000 and $85,000, depending on the job role and organization one is working for, helping this skill rank among the top information technology technical skills of this decade.
Skills: If you are looking to pursue a field in virtualization, you will need to be able to design ESX VDI solutions for CECOM SEC S3 development, be proficient with SAN, Vsphere, and understand virtual storage. Fluency in VMware is an extra boost to widen your information technology skills.
Internet of Things and Edge Computing The increase of IoT devices has pushed up the demand for edge computing so much that its market is projected to reach $6.5 billion in the coming years. IoT refers to a network of interconnected digital machines that exchange data through the internet. Edge computing is closely related to IoT as it ensures a reliable connection and eliminates latency of IoT networks. Edge computing involves the placement of resources close to end-user devices, thereby assuring IoT networks’ flawless implementation.
IoT professionals earn anywhere between $108,000 and $147,000 per year.
Skills: IoT professionals need to possess sufficient knowledge of cloud computing, automation, devices, and embedded systems. The information technology skills list includes design capabilities for IoT networks, analysis of security risks, and in-depth knowledge of programming languages.
Healthcare IT Healthcare IT deals with designing, developing, and creating information and technology for hospitals and other healthcare organizations. Improving medical care with automated and information systems is one of the primary roles of healthcare IT professionals. Patient portals, telemedicine systems, improving interoperability, and helping manage patient and other business information are key requirements of this sector. The need to protect patient information and other confidential data is a catalyst boosting healthcare IT professionals' need, making an important appearance on the list of technical skills in top demand today. Salary in this profession comes in a package starting at $55,000 and goes up to $75,000 depending on the organization and job role.
Skills: Healthcare IT professionals need to have an IT or clinical background to help develop and address medical treatments. Understanding of HL7, along with technical project experience and the ability to analyze, develop, and test programs and applications is also preferred. One needs to possess sufficient knowledge in handling flat files and engine integration, which can act as added health information technology skills.
Soft Skills to Develop for Career Growth Soft skills are a mandate to interact efficiently and climb the career ladder. Appropriate soft skills help develop a harmonious relationship in the workplace and elevate man-management skills as well. IT professionals looking to expand their list of technology skills must also acquire these soft skills to have a successful career. Some of the important skills for career growth are:
Time management : Time management is of immense importance when you are looking to bag your crown in a top tech company. Maintaining delivery deadlines, sticking to strategy and schedules, managing work in a designated time are all key aspects of an employee with excellent time management skills. What about you?
Accountability: The ability to take responsibility for your actions and their consequences come under accountability. Do not back down from approaching your manager or your team regarding any feedback or clarification. Working with available resources and getting the job done is the motto of top software engineers. Critical approach : The need to have a critical approach is essential in the information and technology industry. Getting creative to find a solution to problems should be something right up your alley if you wish to excel. Allowing results to mold your approach is also something you should keep an open mind to. Adaptability: The ability to adapt according to situations and circumstances is vital for a software engineer shooting for glory. If you buckle easily under pressure, it is proof of your inability to adapt. To keep pace with a continuously evolving and advancing tech sector, the onus is on you to learn the ability to be flexible and adapt whenever needed. Communication : Engaging pleasantly and professionally with coworkers, managers, and clients is instrumental to developing rapport. To be superlative at communicating, one must be an intent listener as well. It is essential to understand what the person is trying to communicate before you express your views or opinions. Delegation of work, clarifying complex instructions, delivering feedback – all require the ability to communicate correctly. An effective communication strategy also helps to work seamlessly with a variety of personalities. Teamwork : An essential soft skill that backs up your information technology skills is collaborating as a team. Regularly sharing ideas and information with the team decreases the chances of conflict, while also promoting a stimulating work environment. An element of trust is a must for efficient teamwork, which you need to deliver from your end in order to have a healthy relationship with your team . As per the World Economic Forum, education is at the core of getting advanced job roles in the software industry. Thus, it is necessary to continually update and upgrade your list of technical skills to acquire an advantageous position in the race .
You can take online technical interview prep courses from InterviewKickstart FAANG company job interview tips from our experts to help you realize your dream.
As per a Bureau of Labor Statistics report, software developers are expected to see a growth rate of 22% in employment between 2019 and 2029, higher than any other sector in the United States . Also, the average salary of coding engineers in the US hovers around $120,000 annually, significantly higher than the national median of $55,000 in 2019. You too can be a part of this layer and go beyond by acquiring and honing these important tech skills in 2021.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which computer engineering career has the most lucrative packages? Data scientists, ML engineers, data analysts, and software developers are some of the highest-paying jobs in the information and technology sector. For instance, the average salary of a mid-level data analyst in the USA is nearly $120,000-$130,000 and can go up to $185,000 to $190,000.
Which computer certification is best for getting a job in the tech industry? Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Apple Certified Associate, Certified Information System Security Professional, Network+, and Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer are some of the best computer certification courses to help you expand your information technology technical skills and get an advanced role in a reputed company.
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