How to future proof your career | From Dorms to Desks Podcast | ep45

On today’s episode of the From Dorms to Desks Podcast, our cohosts talk about how the world of work is transforming before our eyes. If you’re a student, recent graduate, or just starting out in your career, it’s natural to feel a mix of anticipation and perhaps a little uncertainty about what the future holds. The choices you’re making right now about your education and early job experiences are incredibly important. Fortunately, major reports like the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 offer valuable insights into where the global job market is headed. By understanding these trends, you can make more informed decisions and position yourself for success.

Several powerful forces are collectively reshaping the job landscape. Technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and digital connectivity, are arguably the most dominant driver. AI and information processing breakthroughs are accelerating this shift, leading to both rapid job growth in tech fields and significant declines in roles that involve routine tasks. While AI is likely to augment many professional jobs, it’s making many clerical and repetitive jobs obsolete. Economic shifts, including high inflation, rising costs of living, and slower global growth, also play a role, potentially leading to job losses in some areas but spurring demand for roles that improve efficiency, like AI specialists and supply chain experts. Geoeconomic fragmentation, with shifting trade policies, boosts the need for security and cybersecurity professionals.

Demographic changes are fundamentally altering labor markets worldwide. In many developed countries, aging populations mean greater demand for healthcare and caregiving jobs. An older workforce might also necessitate automation where labor is scarce. Conversely, younger, expanding workforces in emerging economies fuel demand for education jobs and entry-level positions. The climate crisis is another major force, driving investment in renewable energy, electric vehicles, and sustainable practices, creating new careers in the green economy like Renewable Energy Engineers and Sustainability Experts. These trends don’t happen in isolation; they overlap and interact, creating a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable environment, with a significant percentage of jobs globally predicted to change by 2030.

When we look closer at specific occupations, we see a clear divergence. On a percentage basis, the fastest-growing jobs are heavily tech-focused, including Big Data Specialists, AI and Machine Learning Specialists, and Software Developers. Cybersecurity roles are also booming due to increasing digital risks. Parallel to this, the green transition is fueling rapid growth in roles like Electric Vehicle Specialists and Renewable Energy Engineers. But looking at the sheer number of jobs being added, the picture is different. The biggest gains are expected in foundational service roles and those meeting basic societal needs, such as farmworkers, delivery drivers, construction workers, and notably, roles in the care economy like Nursing Professionals and Personal Care Aides, and education jobs like teachers. Essentially, the job market is seeing rapid percentage growth in high-tech niches and massive absolute growth in essential service sectors.

On the other side of the coin, many traditional jobs are shrinking due to automation and changing business models. Clerical and administrative support roles face the steepest declines. Occupations like Cashiers, Bank Tellers, Data Entry Clerks, and Administrative Secretaries are expected to see the largest absolute job losses globally. Digitalization and AI are the primary drivers here, as online services and software handle tasks previously done by humans. Manual jobs susceptible to automation, such as some factory and assembly-line positions, are also declining. Even some professional roles, like Accountants and Auditors, are noted as potentially shrinking as software takes over more routine work. While these jobs won’t disappear entirely overnight, they offer diminishing prospects for new entrants, who should be cautious about building careers in these fields.

This evolving job market requires an equally evolving skill set. It’s estimated that a significant portion of the core skills needed in the workforce will change in the coming years. Not surprisingly, tech literacy and digital skills are paramount, with AI and Big Data skills being particularly sought after. Even if you’re not in a tech role, understanding how to work alongside digital tools is crucial. Beyond technical skills, employers highly value uniquely human abilities. Analytical thinking and innovation, the ability to solve complex problems and think creatively, are in high demand. Resilience, flexibility, and adaptability are essential for navigating constant change. Leadership and social influence, along with communication and collaboration, become more important as automation handles routine tasks. Finally, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning are highlighted as critical skills, as workers will need to continuously update their abilities.

Given these trends, how should you align your education and career plans? Embracing STEM and digital fields like Computer Science, Data Science, or Cybersecurity is a strong strategy for many high-growth roles. However, technical literacy is valuable regardless of your major; consider minors or certificates in coding or data analysis to complement other fields. Don’t overlook healthcare and life sciences; with aging populations, roles like nurses and medical technologists are in high demand globally. Riding the green wave means considering majors in Environmental Science, Renewable Energy Engineering, or related trade programs like solar installation, which are booming.

Consider emerging and interdisciplinary fields like Business Analytics or Human-Computer Interaction that combine multiple skill sets for future-forward careers. Remember that a four-year degree isn’t the only path. Skilled trades and technical vocations like electricians or HVAC technicians are in demand, often offering stable careers, and are increasingly incorporating digital technology. The key is to match your education path to growing sectors like tech, healthcare, green industries, and skilled trades, while also factoring in your personal strengths and interests. Many fields have future-oriented roles if you know where to look.

Beyond your formal education, focus on building a versatile skill set that blends technical expertise with strong human skills. Cultivate transferable skills like communication, project management, and data analysis that are valuable in almost any role. Consider stacking credentials through certifications or online courses to keep your skills current and demonstrate a commitment to learning. In the future job market, employers will care significantly about what you can do, so focus on skills-based hiring by building projects, portfolios, or gaining experience through internships or volunteering.

Finally, future-proofing your career is an ongoing process. Adopt a mindset of continuous learning; your first degree is just the beginning. Stay informed about trends in your industry through news, professional groups, and networking. Cultivate adaptability and resilience – be prepared for change and view it as an opportunity. Leverage mentors and networking to gain insights and identify opportunities. Be open to lateral moves or new experiences that broaden your skillset. Prioritize roles that offer significant skill development, even if they aren’t the highest paying initially. Most importantly, remain flexible and positive. The future of work holds immense opportunity for those willing to learn, adapt, and proactively shape their path.