Industry 4.0 Career Advice: The Future of Work

As the way we work changes, new skills are needed for the new jobs being created.

Industry 4.0 Career Advice

Nikola Tesla famously wrote that “the progressive development of man is vitally dependent on invention”.

This insight resonates strongly today as we witness the transformative power of Industry 4.0—the latest wave of technological innovation reshaping industries and jobs worldwide.

Characterised by the integration of cyber-physical systems, IoT, Big Data, Cloud Computing, and AI, Industry 4.0 is revolutionising how organisations optimise operations, reduce costs, and improve overall efficiency.

As these changes redefine the way we work, they also create a demand for new skills and professions. Our career advice page aims to protect and enhance your long-term career prospects in this evolving landscape by providing valuable insights on the impact of Industry 4.0 on the future of jobs.

Innovation Cycles

Coined by Joseph Schumpeter in 1942, the theory of “creative destruction” suggests that business cycles operate under long waves of innovation.

Although the fourth industrial revolution is still in its infancy, technology companies already make up 7 of the 10 largest organisations in the world (according to market capitalisation) and their dominance is expected to continue as technology becomes more pervasive through the adoption of artificial intelligence, big-data, and cloud computing. Below we can see how innovation cycles have impacted industries since 1784.

1784 - 1845

1.0 Mechanisation

Innovations in hydro and steam power prompted the transition from manual to mechanised production, bringing about the first cotton mills, textile factories and steam engines in England.

Textiles
Railroad (Urbanisation)
Iron & Steel

1870 - 1915

2.0 Electrification

Mass production of consumer goods using assembly lines (a concept invented by Henry Ford) driven by the emergence of electrical power, as well as the widespread adoption of telecoms.

Automotive
Telecommunications
Electrochemical

1969 - 2000

3.0 Automation

Automated production using electronics, programmable logic controllers, IT systems and robotics. Aviation becomes more affordable, revolutionising movement of people and goods.

Electronics
Aviation (Globalisation)
Petrochemicals

Today

4.0 Digitalisation

Introduction of connected devices, data analytics and artificial intelligence. Autonomous decision making of cyber physical systems using machine learning through cloud technology.

Cyber Physical Systems
AI, IoT, Big Data, Cloud
Smart Factories & Cities

Technology Jobs Rising

A survey by the World Economic Forum in 2023 found a worldwide shortage of tech talent as an increasing number of companies adopt new technologies such as AI, Big Data, Cloud Computing and Cyber Security.

A report by Goldman Sachs in 2023 revealed that an estimated 7% (approximately 300 million) of all jobs globally are at risk of being displaced by automation by 2030. Additionally, 63% of roles are expected to be complemented to increase productivity and efficiency, while the remaining 30% are likely to remain unaffected.

The good news is that technological innovation that initially displaces workers has historically also given rise to employment growth over the long term from the emergence of new occupations and the creation of new opportunities. Economist David Autor asserts that 60% of the current workforce in the United States is employed in occupations that did not exist in 1940. This means that over 85% of employment growth during the last 80 years can be attributed to new technologies.

The Future of Work

Understanding how Industry 4.0 is affecting the future of work is crucial for anyone considering a career in tech as well as individuals looking to transition from declining occupations.

Research conducted by LinkedIn for the Future of Jobs Report 2023 indicates that ICT-related professions make up 16 of the top 100 jobs to have grown consistently and globally over the last four years. This is in line with data published by the ILO (International Labour Organisation) and OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) on which sectors are employing the most workers.

Opposite we have a list of the top 10 most sought-after technology skills for the next five years, along with the 10 technologies impacting job creation and fueling this demand.

Tech Skills In-demand

AI & Machine Learning
Cyber Security & Monitoring
Blockchain
Data Intelligence & Storage
DevOps
Backend, Frontend & Full Stack
Network Infrastructure & Server
Cloud & Virtualisation
IoT
Application Support & EUC

Impacting Technologies

Big-data Analytics
Encryption & Cybersecurity
Digital Platforms & Apps
Augmented & Virtual Reality
Cryptocurrency
Cloud Computing
3D/4D Printing & Modelling
IoT & Connected Devices
Artiﬁcial Intelligence
Quantum Computing

Featured Jobs

Our Commitment to Excellence

At i4Recruit, we are committed to facilitating seamless recruitment processes that benefit both employers and job seekers. We recognise the challenges of navigating today’s digital landscape, where the demand for technology talent often outstrips supply. Our goal is to bridge this gap by providing innovative recruitment solutions tailored to your specific needs.

Empowering Companies and Candidates

We believe that recruitment is more than just filling vacancies; it’s about creating opportunities for growth and advancement. Our mission is to empower companies by sourcing top-tier talent while helping individuals find fulfilling roles that align with their skills and career goals. We envision a future where geographical boundaries do not limit talent acquisition, enabling a diverse workforce that drives innovation.

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Industry 4.0 Career Advice: The Future of Work

Industry 4.0 Career Advice