
With the explosive rise of generative AI (GenAI), nearly 80% of tech talent feels pressure to upskill, particularly in the burgeoning fields of software development with AI integration and cybersecurity.
Despite high demand, a shortage of experts persists in these areas, with the most sought-after software platforms in job ads including Python, AWS, Oracle, Java and JavaScript.
These were among the results of an Indeed survey of 1,100 individuals in high-demand tech roles, which found the number of tech professionals seeking jobs has surged by 86% since January 2020, with job seekers increasingly taking control of their career paths.
Linsey Fagan, Indeed’s senior talent strategy advisor, explained as new technology like GenAI quickly evolves, it’s not uncommon for job seekers to feel the pressure to stay competitive.
She said while strong technical skills will lay a solid foundation for their careers, it’s important for tech professionals to have a plan for upskilling in AI/ML and cloud computing.
“Online certifications and courses offer flexible learning opportunities that can help them stay ahead,” she explained. “Additionally, most employers offer upskilling, so if your employer offers this, be sure to take advantage of it to stay competitive.”
The report also revealed tech professionals with 5 to 10 years of experience are more inclined to apply for internal roles, emphasizing the importance of upskilling initiatives within companies to retain talent.
Fagan said hands-on experience is the best way to understand new tools, and it can help IT workers stand out as someone investing in themself and the company’s future.
Outside of work, she recommended participating in networking events and industry workshops as a great strategy to learn about technical skills while sharpening your soft skills.
“While AI is increasing the pressure on job seekers, I like to remind people that AI is only as good as the person using it,” she said. “Communication, ethics and empathy play a huge role in operating these new tools.”
AI Impacting All Jobs
Hannah Calhoon, head of AI innovation at Indeed, said AI is poised to impact virtually every job, including software development.
“I liken this transition to moving from a horse to a car, especially as future AI applications evolve,” she explained.
From Calhoon’s perspective, there are two key dimensions of AI, the first of which enhances existing tasks, making them faster, easier and more effective—such as streamlining code writing.
The second envisions a future where daily tasks shift significantly due to AI automation and hybrid agent structures.
“This shift could redefine which aspects of a job humans versus AI perform,” she said. “However, it’s important to note that while roles may change, complete job replacement is unlikely.”
Fagan said given the increasing demand for software development with GenAI and cybersecurity, companies and leaders must recognize how job seeker priorities have shifted if they want to attract talent.
“We’re seeing that today’s tech talent prefers finding their own job opportunities instead of working with a recruiter, and work wellbeing has become a significant factor in determining the right fit,” she said.
Fagan added it is essential tech professionals stay on top of the evolving needs of the market and the skills that are most in demand, and adjust their focus areas accordingly.
“Those who remain proactive and curious about skill-building will continue to thrive,” she said.
Calhoon pointed out it’s essential for everyone to invest in building AI literacy, enabling them to transition into AI-supported roles.
“Just as most jobs today require using a computer, many jobs in the future will require being able to be facile with and leverage AI tools,” she said.