Tech Job Market 2024 Forecast: Lasting Careers – Per Scholas

Tech Job Market 2024 Forecast: Lasting Careers

As we ease into 2024, the outlook for the tech job market in 2024 may appear rough at first glance. For the last several months, a series of layoffs at numerous high-profile tech companies, such as Google, Amazon, Twitter, Salesforce, and Microsoft, as well as at smaller-scale tech companies, have rocked the tech industry. Layoff-tracking site layoffs.fyi reported that, in 2023 alone, over 400 tech companies have laid off a total of almost 120,000 workers from tech jobs. Furthermore, the future state of the U.S.’s economy also seems precarious: in December, a survey of economists predicted a 70% chance that the U.S. would enter a recession at some point in 2023. 

Such rocky news is enough to make any aspiring tech worker nervous about entering the industry. However, contrary to what one might expect, data seems to indicate numerous open tech jobs available, a fast hiring turnover rate for tech employees, low tech unemployment rates, and new roles available to tech workers in previously overlooked industries. 

Below, we will explore Per Scholas’ outlook on the tech job market in 2024, why now might just be as good a time as any to get started in tech, and how Per Scholas alumni can navigate this confusing time. 

The State of the Job Market in 2024

In 2023, the outlook for tech industry workers seems grim. Announcements of mass layoffs from all manor of tech companies filled the news. According to tracking site Layoffs.fyi, on average, approximately 1,600 tech workers were laid off every day in 2023, with numbers reaching 15% of the total number of tech workers laid off in 2022. 

Such news might lead one to believe that this is a bad time to be involved in the tech industry, but data actually seems to paint a different picture of what it means to work in tech right now. While tech layoff rates were indeed high in 2023, tech hiring rates are also very high, and tech workers are still in incredibly great demand. 

In job search site Indeed’s 2023 annual ranking of U.S. “best jobs,” eight of the top ten jobs were tech jobs, and the outlook remains the same for 2024. This ranking is based on job opportunity, meaning that these top jobs are in high demand from employers, and are rapidly growing. The ranking was as follows:  “full-stack (No. 1); data engineers (No. 2); cloud engineers (No. 3); senior product managers (No. 5); back-end developers (No. 6); site reliability engineers (No. 7); machine learning engineers (No. 8); and product designers (No. 10).” 

By 2033, tech skills will be vital in all job sectors, and 75% of American workers are actively upskilling to meet this demand, leading us to believe that 2024 will show hundreds of thousands of tech job positions open, with fewer technologists to fill those roles. A CompTIA analysis indicated an increase in employer job postings for potential future tech hiring, as well as low tech unemployment rates, which suggests that many laid-off tech professionals are quickly finding new work in the next year. 

Many tech workers also seem to be finding success landing tech roles at companies outside the tech sector. Tech work will always be in demand, especially now that many non-tech companies are continuing to digitally upscale in the wake of the pandemic. According to a ZipRecruiter survey, approximately 74% of laid-off tech workers found new jobs in tech, with the remaining 26% finding tech roles in various other industries. “Tech skills are in high demand across the economy, with government agencies, aerospace companies, health systems, and retailers frequently noting shortages of software engineers, cybersecurity professionals, data analysts, and web designers,” the survey stated. 

Per Scholas learners

While 2023 saw many layoffs, opportunities for tech jobs were prominent, and those roles will be fulfilled in 2024 as job seekers see technology role trends and openings soaring. As every job becomes one with technology skills required, many job seekers will look for ways to upskill with tech skills.

Rising Demand in Key Areas

Digital upskilling is how individuals transitioning into a job in tech are able to have relevant, in-demand skills for tech roles rising in popularity and availability. Anyone interested in digital upskilling should consider roles in the areas listed below. 

Courses to Consider

  • System Support roles​​
  • Cybersecurity expertise​​
  • Full Stack Developers
  • Data Science and Cloud Computing

The Continuation of Remote Work Trends

Remote work has become more than just a trend – it’s a fundamental shift in how we approach work. With advancements in communication technology and changing attitudes towards flexibility, remote work has reshaped job opportunities across various industries. Companies are increasingly embracing remote work models, opening up new avenues for professionals to collaborate and contribute from anywhere in the world. This flexibility not only enhances work-life balance but also expands the talent pool, providing access to a diverse range of skilled individuals regardless of geographical constraints.

Edge Computing and Sustainability in Tech

Edge computing, with its promise of faster processing and reduced latency, is revolutionizing the way data is handled and processed. As we harness the power of edge computing to drive innovation, there’s also a growing emphasis on sustainability in tech. Green computing initiatives aim to minimize the environmental impact of technology infrastructure, promoting energy efficiency and responsible resource usage. By embracing these new frontiers, tech professionals can contribute to building a more sustainable future while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the digital landscape​​.

Per Scholas Learners putting together computer

The Human Element in Tech Support

While technology continues to advance, the importance of the human element in tech support roles remains paramount. Beyond technical expertise, effective customer service and human interaction are essential for delivering exceptional support experiences. In an age of automation, personalized interactions and empathetic problem-solving set tech support professionals apart, fostering trust and loyalty among customers. Investing in soft skills alongside technical proficiency is key to excelling in this critical domain of tech support.

Adapting to the 2024 Job Market

In the realm of technology, change is the only constant. As we step into 2024, the job market continues to shift, shaped by innovative trends and emerging technologies. To thrive in this dynamic environment, it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve, embracing continuous learning and adaptability. Let’s explore some key themes driving the tech job market and how professionals can navigate these changes effectively.

Continuous Learning and Adaptability

In a rapidly evolving tech landscape, the ability to learn and adapt is non-negotiable. Continuous learning isn’t just about acquiring new skills – it’s about embracing a mindset of growth and resilience. Whether through formal education, online courses, or hands-on experience, staying updated with the latest technologies and industry trends is essential for remaining competitive in the job market. Embracing lifelong learning empowers professionals to pivot seamlessly in response to changing demands and emerging opportunities.

Navigating a Career in Tech Amidst AI and Automation

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation presents both challenges and opportunities for tech professionals. While automation streamlines processes and enhances efficiency, it also disrupts traditional job roles, prompting the need for upskilling and reskilling. Instead of fearing automation, tech professionals can leverage AI as a tool to augment their capabilities and drive innovation. By focusing on roles that require human creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence, individuals can future-proof their careers amidst AI and automation.

Per Scholas: Preparing You for the 2024 Tech Job Market

Fortunately, our Per Scholas alumni are well-prepared for landing jobs in tech. We believe in taking a multifaceted approach to preparing our learners for entry into the tech workforce, which gives them an edge over other applicants in the field. 

Photo of Per Scholas Learners in Class

Not only are learners equipped with top-notch technical skills, they also undergo rigorous professional development training to tailor and polish their resumes, cover letters and LinkedIn profiles, practice mock interviews, and prepare to conduct themselves in a professional setting.

Upskilling and Professional Development

In the pursuit of staying relevant in the evolving job market, upskilling and professional development are invaluable assets. Programs like Per Scholas provide tailored training and resources aligned with emerging job market trends, equipping individuals with the skills needed to succeed in tech roles. By investing in upskilling initiatives, professionals can expand their skill set, enhance their employability, and seize new opportunities in the ever-changing tech landscape.

Alumni Success Stories and Employer Partnerships

We also partner with leading tech companies to bring industry experts and professionals into our classrooms who speak with our learners about what it is like to work in the tech industry, conduct mock interviews, and help our learners grow their professional networks. 

“One of the biggest benefits of Per Scholas was them being able to put us in the room with people that we wouldn’t normally be in the room with,” said Matt Watkins, a recent graduate of Per Scholas St. Louis’ Cybersecurity course.

“We were in the room with CCOs and CEOs and big movers and decision makers in the corporate IT cybersecurity space. Without Per Scholas, I don’t know how I would have come to meet these people and connect and network with them. I’ve already had three interviews within the months since graduating, and all of them were a direct result of the connections I made during this program.” 

Read more of our alumni stories

Continued Support and Networking Opportunities

After graduating from Per Scholas, our alumni are also well-supported. For up to two years after graduation, alumni have access to our numerous resources including career coaching, financial coaching, and job placement assistance. 

Our learner support team aims to mirror an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) by providing alumni with access to coaching regarding mental health and wellness, work-life balance, and financial advising. “We’re committed to providing continued access to skill enhancing learning opportunities that alumni can leverage during the job search and attainment process, and throughout their career journey,” said Sierra Harvey, Director of Alumni Engagement and Training at Per Scholas. “This is possible through our instructor-led and asynchronous course offerings as well as providing space and opportunity for alumni to connect with each other and with other industry professionals.” 

Per Scholas’ business solutions team acts as a liaison between Per Scholas alums and our employer partners by sourcing employment opportunities, supporting alumni as they find gainful employment, and helping foster employer connections. 

Our professional development team continues to be available after graduation to help alumni refresh their personal and professional knowledge and skills, including resume/ cover letter review, pitch and interview practice, and online presence review. 

Finally, our technical instructors are available to alumni for all technical questions and professional references. Alumni may also level-up their skill sets and earn more certifications through our alumni courses.

Learners at Per Scholas

Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Tech Careers

In conclusion, 2024 will have competing challenges between tech job availability and the surge of AI, but we encourage you to still pursue a career in tech despite uncertainties and the fact that all job roles will require tech experience and skills in the next ten years. 

Bottom line: tech isn’t going anywhere, and while there may be layoffs from tech companies, there are still technology jobs available and an opportunity to upskill into those roles. If you are interested in launching your career in tech, apply now!

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