In 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic marked a profound change in the world’s economy. While millions were adapting to remote setups, companies were trying to figure out how to continue relevant and operating productively and efficiently.

In a world driven by digital transformation, pursuing an IT career has never been more promising! As businesses adapted to the ‘new normal’, the demand for tech talent emerged, creating new opportunities for professionals looking to build resilient careers. From software development to cybersecurity and cloud computing, the IT landscape offers various roles that combine innovation, problem-solving, and attractive salaries. But what does it take to build a successful software developer career, and how can aspiring professionals deal with the complexities of the industry?

 

The Growing Demand for IT Professionals

The global IT job market is expanding rapidly. This growth is fuelled by increased cloud computing, the need for cybersecurity, and the rise of big data and AI-driven solutions. According to the OECD Employment Outlook 2024 , Italy’s labour market will continue to grow in 2025, even with the demographic challenges of the ageing population and low birth rates.

The pandemic also emphasised the need for digital infrastructure, with companies accelerating digital transformation efforts, exposed supply chain vulnerabilities, and cybersecurity spending increased as cyber threats surged. A McKinsey report revealed that businesses that implemented technology changed 40 times faster than they originally anticipated due to COVID-19. This shift has made IT careers more essential than ever, with nearly 87% of executives stating that they struggle to fill critical IT positions . The gap between demand and available highly qualified professional presents a tremendous opportunity for professionals entering the job market. So, we’re going to discover how to land a tech career in the post-pandemic worl!

 

How to Navigate the IT Career Path

A career in IT  doesn’t have to be linear. While many professionals start with formal education earning degrees in Computer Science or Information Systems, others find alternative paths such as bootcamps, online certifications, and self-learning, increasingly popular routes. There are plenty of educational platforms with courses from beginner to advanced levels, with high-quality training for those looking to enter or reskill in the IT industry.

 

Career Development: Beyond Technical Expertise

While coding and technical proficiency are essential pillars of an IT career, professional development extends far beyond these skills. Career growth in the IT industry also depends on cultivating soft skills such as communication, leadership, and teamwork, as well as expanding your professional network. Engaging with industry professionals through platforms like LinkedIn, attending tech conferences, online forums, and contributing to open-source projects increase visibility and also opens doors to new opportunities.

Building a personal brand is another effective way to enhance career prospects. Sharing your knowledge through blog posts, speaking at industry events, or creating educational content can position you as a thought leader in your field. By combining technical prowess with a strong professional reputation, you can unlock a wealth of career opportunities.

 

The Nomad

After the significant shift triggered by the pandemic, organisations and individuals had to adapt to a new paradigm, embodied by the digital nomad. They are part of an extensive global network, redefining and leveraging technology without the traditional constraints of an office.

Before the pandemic, remote work was an occasional practice, mainly adopted by freelancers and progressive companies. However, lockdowns forced a rapid transition, proving that—with the right tools—any tech professional could achieve high levels of productivity outside the conventional office.

 

Which IT Roles Are in High Demand?

The IT industry offers diverse career paths, each with its own set of challenges, rewards, and growth potential. As technology continues to evolve, several key roles are seeing explosive growth. Some of the fastest-growing fields in the industry include:

Software Development: Software developers are the backbone of the tech industry, designing and building applications for a variety of platforms, from mobile to enterprise-level systems.

Cybersecurity Analyst: With the rise of cyber threats, cybersecurity professionals are more in demand than ever.

Cloud Computing Engineer:  Engineers skilled in platforms such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud are essential for managing and optimising cloud environments.

Data Scientist: In today’s data-driven world, businesses rely heavily on big data to make strategic decisions.

Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Engineer: As AI and machine learning technologies continue to shape industries from healthcare to finance, engineers who can design and implement machine learning models are highly desired.

 

Taking your IT Career

The IT sector is very competitive, and it requires dedication and ongoing development, but it offers limitless possibilities! Prime Engineering is much more than a company. We’re made of people and prioritise happiness, professional, and personal growth over anything.

Eager to build a successful IT career? Get in touch and let’s shape the world together!