There are a number of advances that are taking place in the world of IT which have to be dealt with at the level of engineering as well as management leading to exciting careers in the future. India is not going to be far behind and is expected to see a significant increase in the adoption of digital technologies in the future leading to several number and types of career opportunities. In our earlier blog, we discussed some of them. In this blog, let us discuss some more hot career areas.
Augmented reality (AR) is the process of adding virtual elements to a real-world setting. AR overlays digital content onto the real world, enhancing users’ perception of their surroundings. AR doesn’t create a separate environment but augments the existing one. Applications include gaming, navigation, and interactive experiences. AR can be found in Snapchat filters, Pokémon Go, Zoom backgrounds, and Ikea’s AR app.
VR immerses users in a simulated environment, often via headsets. It isolates users from the physical world, providing an entirely digital experience. It is commonly used in gaming, training simulations, and virtual tours. Examples of VR are Flight Simulators, Surgical Procedure Simulations, and Safety Training Simulators for firefighters, police, and other public safety personnel.
The metaverse is a network of shared, immersive virtual worlds where people can connect with friends, create and play games, work and shop. The metaverse can be imagined as a cyberspace, or an evolved, three-dimensional internet where logging in isn’t necessary. It may also incorporate elements of virtual and augmented reality. In one sense the metaverse is a vision of what many in the computer industry believe is the next iteration of the internet: a single, shared, immersive, persistent, 3D virtual space where humans experience life in ways they could not in the physical world. Examples of Metaverse are Snapchat, Minecraft, Second Life, and Roblox.
To become an AR/VR/Metaverse engineer, you’ll need to do an undergraduate degree in computer science and hone your skills in programming languages like C, C++, Java, Swift, or Javascript; 3D game engines; UI/UX design and development and mobile app development.
Internet of Things
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the connection of physical devices, such as cars, Smart appliances, security systems, smart agriculture equipment, retail devices, healthcare monitors and manufacturing equipment to the Internet. These devices are embedded with sensors, software, and technologies that enable them to collect and exchange data with other IoT devices and the cloud. Essentially, IoT allows everyday objects to communicate and share information, creating a network of interconnected devices that can be monitored and controlled remotely. This interconnectedness enhances automation, and efficiency, and enables smart applications in various domains. There are many types of IoT applications based on their usage such as Consumer IoT, Commercial IoT, Internet of Military Things, Industrial Internet of Things and Infrastructure IoT. It is estimated that as of 2023, there are approximately 15.14 billion connected IoT devices and by 2030, the number of active IoT devices is expected to double.
To make a career in IoT, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in a technical field like computer science, electrical engineering, or mechanical engineering. This education provides the fundamental knowledge of programming, circuit design, and systems integration necessary for IoT development. Then you must acquire complete knowledge of sensors and how they work. An in-depth understanding of wireless solutions with embedded systems and their impact on IoT networks is also important. Certifications such as IoTF certification, Internet of Things certification from University of California, Irvine, Cisco’s ‘Introduction to IoT and Digital Transformation’, CertNexus Certified Internet of Things Practitioner (CIoTP), UCI’s Introduction to Programming the IoT Specialization and Arcitura’s Certified IoT Architect are helpful.
Cyber Security
Cyber security is a collection of technologies, processes, and practices that protect networks, devices, programs, and data from unauthorized access, attack, or damage. It’s used by individuals and enterprises to protect against unauthorized access to data centres and other computerized systems. Some types of cybersecurity include Network security, Cloud security, Mobile security, IoT security, and Application security. The most important aspects of cyber security are protection against cyberattacks and the prevention of cybercrime. While Cyberattacks are any intentional effort to steal, alter, disable, expose, or destroy data, applications, or other assets through unauthorized access to a network, computer system, or digital device; cybercrime is about carrying out illegal activity involving computers, the Internet, or network devices. Cybercriminals commit activities such as identity theft, initiating phishing scams and online frauds.
A career in cybersecurity can be a good option because of the high demand for personnel, ample opportunities for career growth and development, and competitive salaries. To make a career in the field you can do a degree in computer science or IT with specialisation in cyber security, network engineering and security, or information assurance. Certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+), Certified Ethical Hacker, (CEH), Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP), and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) are added plus for fast-track career growth.
Information Technology(IT) Management
IT Management involves overseeing an organization’s information technology systems to ensure they operate efficiently. This includes managing hardware, software, and networks, as well as tasks like staffing, organizing, budgeting, and control. IT managers should also be able to motivate their team, set goals, and provide guidance. They should also be able to lead by example and create a positive and inclusive work environment. The goal is to leverage technology to enhance business processes and help people work more effectively. Essentially, IT Management is about ensuring that an organization’s IT resources contribute to its overall success.
To become an IT manager, you need a bachelor’s degree in IT or MBA in Management Information Systems (MIS) with lots of experience in systems implementation and management. Certifications such as Certified Information Technology Manager (CITM), Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL), CMI Management and Leadership (Level 4 and 5), Axelos ITIL ® 4, and Information Technology Management and Leadership Professional (ITMLP) help in putting you on the fast-track.
Information Systems (IS) Management
Information Systems (IS) Management involves organizing, directing, and controlling the use of information within an organization. It focuses on planning, coordinating, and overseeing the use of information systems to achieve the company’s goals. Information Systems managers play a crucial role in ensuring that technology resources are effectively utilized, aligned with business objectives, and contribute to the overall success of the organization. Their responsibilities include decision-making regarding technology investments in software applications, cybersecurity, database management, and ensuring their smooth operation.
To become an IS manager, you need a bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering or Computer Science; or MBA in Management Information Systems (MIS) with lots of experience in systems development, implementation and management. Certifications such as Software Engineering Master Certification (SEMC), IEEE’s Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional, Graduate Certificate in Information Systems Management, Certificate Program In Management Information Systems, and The Chartered Institute for IT Agile certification are helpful in career growth.
As we have read there are a number of career opportunities on the horizon. So, if you prepare yourself a bright future is yours for the asking. If you need any guidance and/or support in charting out your education pathways for your goal of making a career in IT, do not hesitate to reach out to us at +91 9811666817 immediately or Contact Us.
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