Where could science and technology take us in 30 years?
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Whether you’re reading this from a smartphone, laptop, or tablet, this wasn’t more than a dream 50 years ago. The innovations from the tech boom completely transformed the way we live, socialize, work, and study. But what could happen in the next 30 years and how could it shape your life and career?
Here are four industries that are growing at rapid rates and are projected to become a major part of daily life over the course of the next three decades.
1. Artificial Intelligence
In 2018, Google unveiled a new feature for its Assistant technology. In an astonishing display of the capabilities of artificial intelligence, Google showed the technology’s ability to hold a conversation like a human.
But it’s not just the folks in Silicon Valley working on this capability. Volkswagen, Panasonic, and even Under Armor are just a few of the big names outside of the tech industry who are leading the way with AI. There has been quite a lot of research and investment going into AI and while 2050 is unlikely to look like a neon scene from Tron (or a grim one from Black Mirror), it’s clear that AI will only continue to change the world.
Career examples: Machine Learning Engineer, Data Scientist, R&D Engineer, Computer Vision Engineer
What to study: Machine Learning, Robotics and Computer Programming, Python & SQL, Statistics, Data Science, Computational Mathematics
2. Blockchain and Digital Currencies
At the end of 2017, Bitcoin mania began across the globe. Quickly becoming one of the early buzzwords of 2018. While there’s no guarantee that the popular currency will still be in everyone’s minds over the next three decades, one thing became clear – there is a deep interest in the development of blockchain and digital currencies.
Career examples: Blockchain Developer/Engineer, Ethereum Developer, Cryptocurrency Project Manager, Data Scientist
What to study: Computer Science, Programming, Coding, Business, Cryptocurrency/Blockchain
3. Augmented Reality
In the summer of 2016, the whole world got a taste of a phenomenon that existed in the 90s. Pokémania took over yet again with the revived version of Pokémon available to people everywhere. Only this time, instead of trading cards on the schoolyard, it was an augmented reality mobile game causing all the stir. Pokémon Go showed us what a world highlighted by augmented reality could look like, creating a mixed reality masterpiece.
The future of augmented reality looks brighter than ever. With the widespread availability of mobile devices and advancements in graphics capability, a virtual reality in our daily lives has never felt more attainable and – well, realistic.
Career examples: Software Engineer, Technical Architect, Game Developer, Content Creator
What to study: Software Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Information Systems
4. Space Exploration
If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you or someone you know owns a cool t-shirt with the Nasa logo on it. At the very least, you’ve probably heard all about the cool things happening over the Los Angeles skies thanks to SpaceX. Interest in space exploration is undergoing a major revival at the moment.
A 2017 study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of aerospace engineers will grow 6% by 2026. Aircrafts are being redesigned to cause less noise pollution and have better fuel efficiency, which will help sustain demand for research and development. And of course, Starman’s recent journey past Mars has definitely helped.
Career examples: Aerospace Engineer, Electronics Technician, Meteorological Technician, Astronaut
What to study: Aeronautical Engineering, Astronomy, Atmospheric Science, Physics, Aviation Technology, Social Sciences
Thinking about your future? Learn more about where you could go in the next few years with an international education.