Top Technology Trends: The Jobs to Look for in 2021

Technology is amazing. Even in the midst of a pandemic, technology is proving to be immune to any setbacks by constantly evolving and setting the pace for rapid advancements and exciting careers to come. This is promising news for engineering and technology students who are looking to build their futures around the industry.

Check out these top technology trends to watch for in 2021 and the jobs being created so you can take full advantage. See how a degree from Vaughn can be instrumental in giving you a competitive edge in these growing fields.

Artificial intelligence is a real thing

You may not realize it, but we use artificial intelligence (AI) more often today than ever before. How many times a day do you use your smart device to ask “Siri” a question? Lost count, right? Or did you ever wonder how social platforms like Facebook can recognize someone’s face in a photo you posted? The answer is AI and facial recognition. Yes, AI has been in our lives for the better part of this century, but new advancements have the market projected to soar to a $190 billion industry by 2025. And when it comes to cognitive and AI systems, global spending is expected to exceed $57 billion in 2021. (That’s billion with a “b.”) Along with these impressive numbers comes a lucrative salary—one of the highest in the industry—for those professionals who are skilled in the AI field. (Consider this: A machine learning engineer earns over $125,000 per year and an AI architect earns $145,000 per year.)

Some of the new job titles that are expected to be created—and filled—by this technology trend include:

• Development, programming, testing, support, and maintenance.
• Machine learning and automation—robot monitoring professionals, data scientists, automation specialists and content curators. It is predicted that AI, machine learning and automation will create nine percent of new US jobs by 2025.

Virtual reality and augmented reality: An industry game changer

Gamers know the excitement surrounding virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) all too well. Did you know 14 million AR and VR devices were sold in 2019? If you’re not up to speed on these technologies, here’s a simple explanation to refresh your memory: VR places the user in the environment while AR enhances the environment. So, how are these two technologies critical to our lives outside of the gaming world? Consider the example set by the US Navy, Army and Coast Guard. All three branches of the service use simulation software called VirtualShip to train their ship captains. Similarly, Vaughn aviation students have the opportunity to experience the thrill of flight in its $1-million, state-of-the-art flight simulator laboratory. And we civilians can expect 2021 to bring VR and AR into our lives on many different levels that include entertainment, marketing, education and even rehabilitation after an injury. This billion-dollar industry is a real game changer that will create more jobs and increased revenue. The AR and VR global market is projected to grow to $209.2 billion by 2022.

How to score a job in the VR and AR industry:

Employers in this exciting technology field consider candidates who have acquired basic programming skills as well as a positive, forward-thinking attitude. One does not need a specific skill set to work in the field, although some employers may require optics to get started. This is one technology trend to keep on your list!

Robotic process automation redefines jobs and creates new career opportunities

Robotic process automation (RPA) is another technology trend that’s worthy of great consideration. Although RPA entails the use of software to automate business processes typically done by live workers, it also creates new jobs in the industry. Research revealed less than five percent of occupations can be totally automated—which means RPA may be a way to redefine jobs instead of eliminating them.

Job opportunities for IT professionals:

• Developer, project manager, business analyst, solution architect and consultant

A message from Vaughn

As 2020 comes to a close, we look to 2021 with fresh eyes for an exciting new year filled with hope and opportunity. Vaughn is dedicated to the success of each of its students. With technology changing before our eyes, now is the time to pursue the engineering and technology degree you’ve always dreamed of. Discover the possibilities of a futureproof career. Apply today!