Just 15 years ago, job titles like “social media influencer” or “Uber driver” would have sounded strange to people worldwide.
Nowadays, careers in Virtual Reality Design and Artificial Intelligence don’t raise eyebrows. Experts predict that automation could displace up to 73 million jobs by 2030. On the flip side, over 20 million of these displaced workers can transition to similar roles. Moreover, AI is set to create 2.3 million jobs by 2020, and the trend won’t stop there. Digitalization and automation will continue to generate employment in fields that may currently seem unconventional. Here are six unique “jobs of the future” for your consideration:
- Personal Data Broker
In the modern era, companies leverage our personal data as we willingly share it in exchange for free access to social media platforms and online services. As data privacy regulations advance, companies can no longer freely transfer personal data to third parties. The decision of whom to sell your personal data to becomes complicated. That’s where personal data brokers step in. These individuals will oversee and negotiate the sale of clients’ personal data on data exchanges to ensure they earn their deserved profit.
- Drone Pilot
The global market for unmanned aerial vehicles is rapidly growing, creating job opportunities. Drones are likely to become the new standard in the next decade, opening up a wide range of jobs for drone enthusiasts. This field includes not only piloting or operating drones but also expertise in drone repair, creating flight paths, and managing drone fleets. If you’re interested in drones and have the knowledge to operate one, you’re already ahead. Even if you’re not ready to work as a full-time drone operator right now, having a drone license could be a valuable addition to your resume for future jobs.
- 3D-Printed Food Technician (or Chef?)
3D printing is poised to revolutionize how we produce food. With the world population growing rapidly and a need for alternative food sources, engineers are already developing lab-grown meat and hybrid plant products. 3D printing restaurants already exist, and the demand for these tech-savvy chefs will only increase. Imagine a future where a 3D chef prepares lab-grown steak and grills it with lasers on a daily basis.
- Waste Architect
The Earth is accumulating more waste, and this trend is likely to continue. Finding solutions to deal with this waste is crucial. Concepts like floating cities built from waste materials exist, but someone needs to execute these projects. Becoming a waste architect could be a rewarding career choice in the future, possibly as a sub-discipline of existing science degrees such as Civil Engineering. If you have a passion for design and environmental solutions, this career path is worth exploring for future job opportunities.
- Memory Surgeon
Recent advancements in neuroscience and technology are paving the way for the era of digital brain implants. These specialized computer chips will offer benefits like enhanced memory, treatments for paralysis and PTSD, and more. Memory Surgeons, or Memory Optimizers, will be able to remove or modify negative memories to treat conditions like depression and other mental illnesses. Those currently working in neuroscience and practicing neurosurgeons have the best chances of becoming memory surgeons in the near future.
- Career Transitions
The current education system requires an overhaul. Universities are becoming increasingly expensive and time-consuming, while the pace of technological advancement is accelerating. When a student earns a degree in a technical field, half of what they’ve learned may become irrelevant. To keep up with rapidly evolving technology, a new wave of lifelong learning platforms and upskilling centers has emerged. Short courses and micro-degrees are gaining popularity, but what about those looking to change careers? Career Transitionists will assist individuals who have lost their jobs to automation and help them adapt to new positions in digital fields and beyond. These professionals will evaluate candidates based on their skill sets and aid them in upskilling or adapting for future jobs.