These 9 New Jobs Are Going To Be Big Careers In The Future. Are You Ready?
Don't let the robots take over… yet.
By Lailazee - 29 Jan 2024, 04:06 AM
1. AI Ethics Consultant
As artificial intelligence (AI) systems become more widespread, professionals who can ensure ethical AI development and use will be in demand to address complex ethical considerations.
This includes bias, transparency, privacy, autonomy and accountability, security, and informed consent.
Education: A background in computer science, ethics, or a related field, with a focus on AI and machine learning. Advanced degrees, such as a master's or PhD, in AI ethics, computer science, or applied ethics may be beneficial.
Skills: Strong understanding of AI technologies, ethical theories, and legal frameworks. Excellent communication skills to facilitate discussions on ethical considerations. Analytical and critical thinking abilities to assess the ethical implications of AI systems.
Industries: Tech companies, AI research institutions, government bodies, and organisations developing AI applications for various industries.
2. AI Prompt Specialist
Before the 2010s, there was no such thing as a 'social media manager.' Likewise, AI Prompt Specialists may not be a widespread career yet, but that's probably going to change soon.
These specialists will focus on fine-tuning and optimising prompt-based AI models, such as ChatGPT, Google Bard, Bing Chat, and more. They could be prompting for research, image generation, social media creation, article writing, or any number of jobs and roles.
Education: A degree in computer science, artificial intelligence, or a related field. Specialised courses or certifications in natural language processing (NLP) and AI model training can enhance qualifications.
Skills: Proficiency in NLP, critical thinking and understanding. Expertise in designing prompts that yield desired AI responses. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Industries: Technology companies developing AI models for language processing, AI research institutions, and organisations utilising AI for customer service, content generation, or other language-centric applications.
3. TikTok Creator
The emergence of TikTok as a global social media phenomenon has given rise to a new and distinctive role — the TikTok Creator. This job involves individuals who specialise in producing engaging, informative, and entertaining short-form videos for the brand, to be posted on TikTok.
Big MNCs like L'Oreal and smaller local SMEs have all made the leap to hire full-time TikTok creators. Of course, this role can also be expanded for all short-form video content across platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and more.
Education: While there is no specific educational requirement for becoming a TikTok Creator, having a strong foundation in mass communication, video production, and media studies is an advantage.
Skills: On-camera skills, video editing, creativity, trend awareness, and adaptability are all important skills.
Industries: Digital marketing and advertising for a variety of industries, including e-commerce, beauty and lifestyle, home and living, gadgets and tech, and many more.
4. Virtual/Augmented Reality Designer
As the industry grows along with the tech, both virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) designers will be highly sought after.
It is now so much more than just video games, VR and AR have expanded to education, social media, and healthcare, to name a few industries.
Education: A degree in computer science, game design, virtual reality, or a related field. Specialised courses or certifications in virtual or augmented reality design are valuable.
Skills: Proficiency in 3D modelling and animation software. Understanding of user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design principles. Knowledge of programming languages such as C# or C++ for VR/AR development.
Industries: Gaming companies, educational technology firms, healthcare organisations implementing VR for medical training, and businesses utilising VR/AR for product visualisation.
5. Drone Pilots and Technicians
From delivery services to agriculture, drones are becoming a mainstay for the future. As such, the demand for skilled drone pilots, technicians, and even traffic controllers will increase.
Education: Training and certification in drone operation, often provided by aviation schools or specific drone training programmes. For technicians, a background in mechatronics, electronics, or aviation maintenance can be beneficial.
Skills: Proficient piloting skills for drone operation. Technical skills for troubleshooting and maintaining drones. Knowledge of relevant aviation regulations and safety protocols.
Industries: Logistics and delivery companies, agriculture businesses for precision farming, environmental monitoring organisations, and surveying and mapping companies.
6. Sustainable Energy Technicians
As the world shifts towards sustainable practices, jobs in renewable energy, such as solar and wind energy technicians, are expected to see growth.
Practical experience in installing and maintaining renewable energy systems is essential, making them attractive candidates for companies like PETRONAS, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), and more.
Education: Technical education in renewable energy, electrical engineering, or a related field. A degree or certification in sustainable energy technologies is valuable.
Skills: Installation and maintenance skills for solar panels, wind turbines, or other renewable energy systems. Knowledge of energy storage technologies. Understanding of safety protocols in the renewable energy sector.
Industries: Renewable energy companies, utility companies expanding their green energy portfolio, and businesses focusing on sustainable practices.
7. Cybersecurity Analysts
With the increasing threat of cyberattacks, professionals skilled in protecting digital systems will be crucial, making cybersecurity a field with growing opportunities.
Education: A degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or a related field. Certifications such as CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) or CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) can enhance qualifications.
Skills: Proficiency in network security, threat analysis, and vulnerability assessment. Strong knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks and tools. Analytical skills to identify and respond to security incidents.
Industries: Financial institutions, technology companies, healthcare organisations, government agencies, and any entity handling sensitive digital information.
8. ESG Specialists
ESG is a framework used to evaluate a company's performance in three key areas — environmental impact, social practices, and governance.
Environmental factors assess a company's ecological footprint, including carbon emissions and sustainable practices. Social practices examine relationships with employees, communities, and adherence to ethical labour practices. Governance focuses on internal policies, leadership structures, and ethical decision-making.
Investors use ESG to assess a company's sustainability and ethical practices, influencing investment decisions. Meanwhile, consumers are shifting to support socially responsible businesses.
An ESG specialist is in charge of evaluating and integrating ESG principles into decision-making processes for the company.
Education: Degrees in finance, business administration, or environmental science. Certifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) credentials are valuable.
Skills: Expertise in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. Analytical skills for evaluating company ESG performance. Communication skills to engage with stakeholders.
Industries: Investment firms, financial institutions, corporate sustainability teams, and organisations integrating ESG factors into decision-making processes.
9. 3D Printing Modellers, Technicians, and Scientists
3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is used in many different ways.
It helps quickly create prototypes for testing in product development. In healthcare, it's used for personalised items like prosthetics and implants. Aerospace uses 3D printing for making lightweight parts with complex shapes. Dental labs use it to make precise dental crowns and bridges.
In cars, 3D printing is used for custom parts, cutting costs and time. Architects use it to create detailed scale models. Schools use 3D printing for projects and models. Fashion and jewellery designers use it for intricate and personalised pieces.
It's also used in making tools, consumer goods, and art, showing how flexible and helpful it can be across various industries.
A modeller or designer would be in charge of creating digital models that are compatible with 3D printing. A printing technician operates and maintains 3D printers, as well as prepares materials and ensures the equipment is functioning.
Engineers, scientists, and quality assurance specialists will develop and test materials, customise 3D printing solutions for specific applications, and conduct research to advance technologies, to name a few responsibilities.
Education: Depending on the role, a background in materials science or chemical engineering is important; technical expertise for 3D printing, problem-solving, and design skills; degree in computer graphics, industrial design, or related fields.
Skills: Proficiency in 3D modeling software, creativity, and design principle. Attention to detail, understanding material properties, research, and testing.
Industries: Manufacturing, prototyping, product development, architecture, entertainment, aerospace, healthcare, and more.
