The world of work is undergoing a transformation. Economic shifts and new technologies are creating demand for roles outside conventional career paths. From digital creativity to ethical judgement, success will depend on hybrid skills. Himanshu Agarwal explores five growth areas and why they matter for the future workforce, and you.
Five career paths that will experience exponential demand over the next decade will boom because technological advancements are reshaping the economy. Conventional careers in business are no longer the only ones with growth potential. Current market trends point towards multiple roles that will see an increase in demand.
UK government analysis also suggests workers should prepare for adapting skills to emerging demands, with digital capabilities becoming essential across all sectors.
Sustainable skills
Sustainability data is the first pick. Over the past few years, climate consciousness and sustainability have become an important metric for consumers. Companies across all sectors are now tracking their environmental impact.
The UK’s modern industrial strategy also states that the clean energy industries are one of eight growth-driving sectors in the country.
Ethical decisions
Second on the list are AI ethics specialists. Artificial intelligence has become an important part of daily life and business operations. There are, naturally, many debates around using AI ethically in business.
Organisations now need professionals who can navigate the ethical issues which AI implementations come with. These professionals maintain a balance between keeping up with technical advancement and social regulations and limitations.
Digital creativity
Creative rights managers are the third addition to the list. Digital content has gained a following across many platforms. Professionals can now monetise their creative assets better than ever before. The creative industries represent a key growth sector identified in the UK’s industrial strategy as well, with particular opportunities in digital content rights management.
Supply sector
The fourth career set for significant growth is that of digital supply chain architects. Global supply systems suffered during the pandemic. Now, companies are investing in making supply networks more resilient, so that these manufacturing supply chains can withstand similar shocks in the future.
The new industrial strategy also prioritises growth in supply chains across the country in different sectors, and supports businesses in data analysis for supply chains.
Science and medicines
Biomanufacturing technicians are the final professionals in this list. The life sciences sector has expanded so rapidly, with particular demand for technicians who can operate complex equipment. This sector is essential to the production of biologic medicines and materials as well.
This also aligns with the country’s industrial strategy, which shows that life sciences are a priority sector with potential for long-term growth.
Mixing skills
These roles will demand new skill combinations. Success in these careers requires a hybrid set of capabilities. Just technical expertise isn’t going to cut it anymore. Professionals will require sector-specific knowledge, strong human skills and ethical judgment.
But many of these careers prioritise sector-specific skills and experience instead of traditional university degrees. This creates opportunities for those with non-traditional educational backgrounds as well.
Himanshu Agarwal is CEO and co-founder of Zenius
