When we think about the future, we often ask: what kinds of jobs will shape our world? In a world where technological progress and the digital revolution are creating new possibilities, future professions are emerging alongside a growing focus on sustainability. These professions combine innovation with responsibility towards the environment and society, laying new foundations in the labor market. For young people facing decisions about what, where, and how to study, understanding these trends is essential in choosing a career path.
According to the World Economic Forum's 2023 Future of Jobs Report, employers estimate that 44% of today’s employee skills will become obsolete within the next five years. In other words, by 2027, people will only need 56% of the core skills they currently use. The report highlights jobs that will be in high demand over the next decade. Here are some of the most interesting ones.
“By 2027, people will only need 56% of the core skills they use today.”
Artificial Intelligence and Ethics – New Challenges
With its ability to mimic human thinking, planning, and learning, artificial intelligence has become a key area of study for the future. New professions, such as AI specialists, will emerge to design and maintain advanced algorithms to optimize processes. As AI continues to rise, ethical oversight becomes not only desirable but essential in the development and implementation of tech solutions. A new generation of professionals—ethics consultants—will ensure that algorithms are designed and programmed in ways that prevent discrimination and data misuse.
Technological Diversity: From the Internet of Things to Virtual Reality (VR)
Digital skills are becoming increasingly vital across industries. Roles involving data analysis, AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity are expected to grow significantly. IoT engineers will develop connected infrastructure to optimize city, industrial, and other environments. Blockchain specialists will design, manage, and maintain blockchain systems used to ensure security, transparency, and decentralization across various sectors like finance and logistics.
In a world where VR headsets allow us to enter alternate realities, new opportunities are opening for designers and developers. VR specialists are revolutionizing how we perceive digital space by creating new apps and technologies—not just for entertainment, but also for education, virtual museums, and even therapeutic environments. Augmented reality (AR) developers will create tools that blend the physical world with virtual elements.
Meanwhile, cybersecurity experts will safeguard data, digital identities, and systems from growing cyber threats. With the increasing frequency of breaches, data theft, and identity fraud, these roles are already indispensable.
Green Professions of the Future
A growing awareness of environmental issues is driving interest in green careers—responses to global challenges such as climate change, pollution, and resource depletion. According to the International Labour Organization, green professions are key to building a sustainable society. Examples include:
Renewable energy engineers, who will develop and enhance processes for producing energy from wind, solar, and water sources.
Eco-builders, specialists in constructing with environmentally friendly materials and modern methods.
Environmental engineers, who will design and implement eco-conscious projects with a focus on minimizing industry’s environmental impact.
Urban farmers, who will grow crops in urban areas using innovative techniques.
Sustainability experts, who will work on transforming business models toward more sustainable practices.
Other future-defining roles include genetic engineers, biotechnologists, and smart city architects, as well as digital transformation specialists. These roles offer answers to modern challenges and opportunities for those wishing to contribute to a better future.
Genetic engineers will lead innovations in using genetic technologies to treat and prevent diseases. Biotechnologists will be at the forefront of developing new medications and therapies. Urban planners of the future will design people- and environment-friendly cities, crucial for quality of life.
“Study programs must keep pace with changes in the labor market. They must become more flexible and development-oriented to ensure better employability of graduates.”
Smart city and smart home architects and engineers will plan and build technologically advanced, energy-efficient, and eco-friendly urban spaces and homes.
Digital transformation specialists will focus on reshaping traditional business models into digitized, efficient systems that harness technology to improve services and operations.
In addition to tech-driven roles, professions related to mental health and individual well-being will also become increasingly important. Among current roles, specific new ones will emerge, such as:
Mental health therapists, helping individuals cope with the stress of modern life.
Digital well-being psychologists, supporting people in managing the impact of technology on their mental health and overall well-being.
This article has described numerous professions that research and analysis predict will shape our future. These jobs will play a key role in creating a society that is both innovative and responsible toward nature and humanity. However, educational programs must keep up with labor market changes. They need to become more flexible and future-oriented to support the employability of young people after graduation. For those at a career crossroads, these professions offer not only a challenge but also an opportunity to actively co-create a better future.
