1. Blockchain

The term blockchain is often mentioned together with cryptocurrencies, like bitcoin and ether. But the technology is already penetrating into many spheres of our life beyond cryptocurrencies. There are many possible applications of the blockchain, largely due to the fact that it is almost impossible to change the data stored in it.

A recent study conducted by IBM across 16 countries showed that 9 out of 10 of the government organizations look to incorporate blockchain into the way they function this year.

So what blockchain-related jobs are worth paying attention to in 2018?

Blockchain is already being implemented by banks, governments, public and private organizations for storing, recording and protecting transactions, which opens up wide opportunities for career growth for blockchain developers.

But since this technology is not familiar to everyone and raises a lot of questions, support service jobs will be in demand. Their task is to solve the problems of customers associated with the blockchain functioning.

2. Virtual reality

Virtual reality is a very promising is the direction, where users interact with three-dimensional simulation of the environment through special equipment.

This area will bring with it many new career opportunities for graphic designers. They will create and simulate these virtual spaces. Programmers and psychologists will also be in demand. The latter will be responsible for ensuring that people receive sensations that are as close to realistic as possible.

3. Autonomous cars

There is a plenty of articles about self-driving cars on the web. Experts have very high hopes for their development. According to some estimates, the first such autos will appear in 2018. Of course, the new technology will lead to the loss of jobs, but at the same time it will create new career opportunities.

Today, major car companies, such as Tesla, are looking for quality control engineers. This work perfectly suits those who have experience in information systems or electronics. The developers of software for autonomous cars will also be in demand.

4. Internet of Things (IoT)

This direction appeared relatively recently, but its potential should not be underestimated. General Electric predicts investment in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is expected to top $60 trillion during the next 15 years. Gartner estimated that more than 5.5 million new IoT gadgets will join the network daily. It is obvious that the industry is on the verge of explosive growth. So if you have experience in the relevant areas, then this could have a positive impact on your career.

So, what jobs will be relevant:

Developers of wearable devices. Gadgets are part of this industry, so designers and engineers of wearable devices will be in demand among emploers this year.

Node.js developers. Node.js, a platform to manage connected devices, is used by many companies.

There will also be a growing demand for cloud computing specialists.

5. Data security

Last year hackers breached big sites, networks and government agencies regularly. In 2018, there are plans to clamp down on hacking, making computing systems more resilient in the face of cyberattacks. Therefore, data security specialists will be in high demand. Companies and government departments are waiting for competent specialists.

New technologies are an integral part of our future. Instead of being afraid of changes, you should try to make them work for your benefit.