By Daya Prakash, Founder, TalentOnLease

Adaptability and innovation are crucial in the fast-paced and constantly evolving Information Technology (IT) field. The IT job market is like the ebb and flow of the ocean, with each wave bringing new opportunities and challenges. Organisations must seek to cultivate talent capable of riding the waves of emerging technologies to stay ahead of the game. Likewise, professionals should continuously work on improving their skills to remain competitive.

As cutting-edge technologies like AI, machine learning, and blockchain continue to shape the job market, it is essential to understand which IT skills are in high demand and which are declining. Therefore, exploring the top five IT hiring trends currently at their peak and the five gradually fading away is pertinent. This exploration will help employers and professionals navigate the constantly evolving IT job market.

Rising Stars in IT: Five Skills in High Demand
AI and Machine Learning Specialists
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) have emerged as the most significant technological advancements. As per a recent report by Nasscom, India’s AI industry is expected to reach USD 957 million by 2025, depicting a remarkable growth trajectory. Every organisation, from tech giants to nimble startups, is embedding AI and ML in their DNA to predict, analyse, and solve complex problems efficiently. Companies are in a frantic rush to recruit experts who can develop intelligent systems that are efficient and predictive, thereby enhancing decision-making capabilities.

Proficiency in designing intricate algorithms, training models, and manipulating data analytics is in demand and highly regarded.

Full-stack developers
In an age where flexibility is vital, Full Stack Developers, proficient in both front-end and back-end development, are becoming invaluable. They provide a one-stop solution for companies looking to streamline their web development process, eliminating the need to hire separate experts for different parts of a project. Their multi-dimensional expertise offers better integration, faster problem-solving capabilities, and a holistic approach to web-based projects.

Data Analysts and Scientists
In data analysis, the ability to extract actionable insights is akin to unearthing valuable treasures. Professionals who possess the skills to harness the power of data, employing statistical techniques and predictive modeling, serve as modern-day alchemists, transmuting vast data sets into strategic goldmines. With proficiency in programming languages such as R, Python, and SQL, these experts unlock a world of opportunities, paving the way for thriving careers in data analysis.

Cloud and DevOps Specialists
Amid the ongoing migration to cloud platforms, the demand for professionals well-versed in cloud-based solutions and DevOps practices is rising. Cloud specialists excel in managing, optimising, and securing cloud environments, while DevOps specialists bridge the gap between development and operations, ensuring seamless software delivery and infrastructure management. These intertwined roles are pivotal in orchestrating digital transformations, enhancing operational efficiency, and enabling swift access to critical data.

As businesses embrace the cloud and agile development methodologies, the fusion of cloud and DevOps expertise emerges as a thriving skillset in high demand.

Blockchain Developers
Amidst the complex world of cryptocurrency, blockchain technology has emerged as a highly versatile tool with numerous applications that promise to enhance security and transparency. Professionals who deeply understand this intricate technology are highly sought after and regarded. With its many applications spanning multiple sectors, blockchain has great potential for transforming how businesses operate and interact with their customers.

The Sunset Skills: Five Trends Facing a Decline
General IT Managers and Technology Generalists
The IT industry is undergoing a renaissance, which has resulted in a marked shift towards specialized roles. This transition is causing a decrease in demand for general IT managers and technology generalists. Instead, organizations are now seeking professionals with specific domain knowledge and expertise. To meet the market's demand for focused expertise, professionals must enhance their skill sets by immersing themselves in specialized technologies and domains.

Legacy Programming Languages and Mainframes
Programming languages like COBOL and BASIC were once the exclusive skills of a select few. However, as computing evolved, mainframe computers, which used to be the cornerstone of computing, are slowly becoming obsolete. The reason behind this shift is the increasing popularity of dynamic programming languages and agile computing infrastructures. The basic data visualization and analysis technologies that were once cutting-edge now need to be updated. The trend is now towards intuitive, real-time analytics tools, which can provide lightning-dight insights.

On-premises Server Administrators and Traditional Network Engineers
The surge in cloud technologies has overshadowed the illustrious roles of on-premises server administrators and traditional network engineers. As the cloud unfurls its expanse, the need for professionals adept in legacy server maintenance and network management is dwindling. These roles are merging, evolving into a niche that demands proficiency in cloud ecosystems, network virtualisation, and modern infrastructure management.

L1 & L2 Support Roles
In IT support, L1 and L2 roles, once the foundation, are increasingly automated. As AI and machine learning algorithms take charge of essential support functions, professionals in these roles face a paradigm shift. Upskilling becomes the mantra for survival, emphasising developing competencies immune to the encroachment of automation and artificial intelligence. Their evolution will underscore a journey from routine support tasks to roles demanding complex problem-solving and strategic contributions.

Conclusion
Organisations must be resilient and adaptable to stay ahead in today's fast-paced world. The key to achieving success lies in leveraging the expertise of professionals with advanced skills in artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, data analytics, and blockchain. To do this, organisations need to have a strategy in place to hire and assemble a team that can respond to unforeseen challenges in the future.

For professionals in the field, the message is clear: being a generalist is no longer enough.
Specialisation is crucial to unlocking new opportunities and realising your full potential. In this era of rapid technological advancement, more than a broad understanding of various tools and concepts is required. Instead, you need to have a deep knowledge of specific technologies and skills to thrive and succeed in the ever-changing landscape of IT.

As we navigate these evolving dynamics, we must do so with wisdom and agility to survive and thrive. Our journey is not merely about overcoming obstacles but about shaping the future of the digital cosmos. By mastering the currents of technological change, we can usher in an era of unprecedented innovation and success, where we sculpt the waves of the future to suit our needs and aspirations.