Stacey Franklin Jones on The Tech Skills Employers are looking for in New College Graduates
You’ve likely heard that communication skills, teamwork, problem solving, and leadership abilities are key skills employers are looking for in recent college graduates; but did you know that several of the skills most requested by top companies in 2019 were closely tied to emerging technologies? Stacey Franklin Jones points out that looking at these top tech skills for new graduates may prompt you to brush up on or explore new tech knowledge to add similar experiences to your resume to ensure you capture the job of your dreams after graduation.
According to a 2019 report from employment industry leader LinkedIn, these are some of the top ‘hard’ skills employers are looking for in the tech-savvy next generation:
Cloud computing — Companies, non-profits and government agencies are rushing to join the cloud computing revolution, using new online tools to store and manage data remotely. Cloud computing tools also help us analyze big data and ensure data security; as well as providing remote access for a global workforce. Stacey Franklin Jones states that companies are looking for cloud-ready engineers and IT support staff, as well as tech-savvy young professionals who understand this need and are ready to fill it. Whether you are supporting a cloud infrastructure or using one to access data, work remotely, or analyze data; the requirement to understand this important new concept is growing.
Artificial Intelligence — AI has rapidly gone from a buzz word to a high-tech industry that is growing fast in scope, funding, and overall impact. Research and higher education institutions, high-tech firms and government agencies have all begun to accomplish cutting-edge work within this new and expanding high-tech market. AI’s far-reaching implications, from supporting defense and intelligence agencies to improving consumer products and education models, makes it an exciting new market. Students with experience and an interest in AI will find a lot of employment opportunities within diverse markets this year, as well extensive growth opportunities around the globe in the future.
Data Analysis — Big data is also growing in use and importance by global employers. Stacey Franklin Jones explains that as we learn to better collect, analyze, and use data; skilled data scientists and engineers, data visualization experts, and technical communicators are needed to continue to push this industry forward. Companies are also looking for experienced and talented young professionals who can use data to make, influence or support smart decisions.
UX Design and Mobile Development — Improving online experiences is key for companies and government agencies. One way to accomplish this is through the creation of mobile-friendly content and applications. Companies are looking for designers and communicators who understand online environments, as well as customer needs and can design to meet them.
Continuing in more general terms, here are a few other tech skills you might want to add to your to-do list to attract recruiters this year.
Video and photo editing — Online users increasingly expect content to be professional and visually engaging. Students who graduate with the tools to produce short online videos and professional photos will have a leg up on workforce competition. Stacey Franklin Jones suggests looking into free, online editing tools to improve your digital content.
Coding — There is a huge push in our education system to include more coding experience early on. Employers are interested in students who know how to code, or program a computer. Stacey Franklin Jones suggests that the Python programming language is a great place to start.
Data Visualization — Also essential to employers in understanding and communicating data sets. New recruits skilled in data visualization, including the use of common online tools to produce charts, graphics, and data visualizations; and how to read them, will have an edge on the competition.
Stacey Franklin Jones hopes that discussion of these various tech skills will be of use to college graduates looking to move into the workforce in the upcoming years.
