Essential tech skills to acquire prior to moving overseas
Essential tech skills to acquire prior to moving overseas
For Nigerians planning to relocate abroad, particularly those interested in the tech industry or aiming to transition into tech-related fields, it is crucial to acquire the necessary skills. Experts strongly recommend investing time and effort in obtaining tech skills before moving, which can be achieved through online courses, certifications, or gaining practical experience.
According to a survey conducted by YouGov and Tech Nation, 64 percent of tech professionals consider their tech skills crucial for ensuring job security.
The survey also highlighted that nearly 80 percent of advertised tech positions are at the senior level, potentially creating challenges for individuals in the early stages of their careers to gain relevant tech experience.
In recent decades, the job market has faced numerous difficulties, including recessions, increased inflation, and the impact of a pandemic. Consequently, many individuals have experienced anxiety and a strong desire for job security.
The tech industry presents promising opportunities for many people due to its consistent growth, competitive salaries, and reasonable job security.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and technology occupations had a median annual wage of $97,430 in 2021, which is more than double the median wage for all other occupations.
The BLS further predicts a 15 percent growth in information technology jobs from 2021 to 2031. With such promising figures, it is no surprise that an increasing number of individuals are aspiring to pursue careers in this field.
Here are essential skills to acquire
Software Developer
Software developers play a crucial role in crafting a diverse range of applications, from popular mobile games to critical system-level software adopted by hospitals and the military.
Proficiency in coding is a fundamental requirement for software developers, with expertise typically encompassing programming languages like Java, SQL, and JavaScript. Additionally, valuable soft skills such as problem-solving abilities are highly sought after in this field. The nature of the role can vary significantly due to the wide array of software types in existence.
DevOps Engineer
A DevOps engineer holds the responsibility of working with code, managing infrastructure, handling DevOps toolchains, and administering systems.
The specific tasks of a DevOps engineer may vary depending on the company's size and nature, but commonly include code review, unit test writing, and facilitating effective communication between different teams. Typically, individuals transition into DevOps roles after accumulating approximately five years of experience in operations or development positions.
In an effort to support aspiring tech professionals in Africa, DevCareer, a non-profit organization, has partnered with the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub. They have launched the DevCareer Tech Program, a six-month training initiative designed to equip 1700 selected Nigerians with in-demand skills in software development, design, and product management. Interested individuals can submit their applications until July 14, 2023, and the program is scheduled to run from August 2023 to January 2024.
Computer Network Architect
Computer network architects design and build data communication networks. This can range from small connections within different branches of the same company all of the way up to large-scale cloud infrastructures. They need a strong working knowledge of both hardware and software.
A computer network architect is typically responsible for increasing efficiency, recommending and implementing upgrades, and staying up to date with developing technologies. With those goals in mind, they create and present management plans, upgrade hardware and work with information and network security.
Computer Network Architect
Computer network architects are tasked with designing and constructing data communication networks, encompassing various scales, from interconnecting branches within a single organization to establishing expansive cloud infrastructures. Their role demands a comprehensive understanding of both hardware and software components.
Typically, computer network architects focus on enhancing operational efficiency, suggesting and implementing upgrades, and staying informed about emerging technologies. With these objectives in mind, they formulate and present management plans, oversee hardware upgrades, and collaborate on information and network security measures.
Mobile App Developer
Mobile app developers are responsible for the design, development, and implementation of a wide range of mobile applications. They often specialize in working with specific platforms such as Android, iOS, or Windows.
These developers possess a combination of creative and technical skills. They demonstrate creativity in conceptualizing and designing new games or tools, while also being highly proficient in technical and practical aspects of app development. Additionally, mobile app developers require in-depth knowledge of HTML, JavaScript, and CSS to effectively create and optimize mobile applications.
Full-Stack Web Developer
Being a full-stack web developer refers to having the ability to develop both server-side and client-side software, making them the versatile multitool of the technology industry.
Full-stack developers are not only well-versed in front-end languages but also possess the skills to write API code and handle server-side programming for the back end. As a result, full-stack developers often possess familiarity with a diverse range of programming languages, allowing them to tackle various aspects of web development effectively.
Data Scientist
In today's digital landscape, data has emerged as the new currency, and data scientists play a crucial role in transforming vast volumes of raw data into meaningful narratives for companies, NGOs, and governments.
Data scientists are responsible for acquiring, cleansing, organizing, and analyzing massive datasets to uncover actionable insights. They employ advanced algorithms and data models to predict outcomes and provide valuable foresight. By leveraging their expertise, data scientists enable organizations to make informed decisions and gain a competitive edge in the data-driven era.
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