The tech industry is entering a transformative era, driven by breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, automation, quantum computing, and an evolving remote work culture. A new report on IT career trends from the University of Phoenix offers timely insight into how IT professionals are experiencing and preparing for these seismic shifts.
Based on a national survey of 1,000 U.S.-based IT professionals, the report sheds light on emerging technologies, evolving skill demands, and workforce expectations for the year ahead. Here’s what to know about the top 2025 IT career trends:
AI is Reshaping Everything, But Readiness Lags Behind
- 67% of IT professionals say artificial intelligence will be a key force shaping the future of IT careers.
- Despite its importance, only 29% feel fully prepared for AI-driven roles.
- Many workers are still navigating how AI will augment—or replace—existing responsibilities.
Quantum Computing Is Quietly Gaining Ground
- Respondents named quantum computing the most underhyped emerging technology.
- As quantum capabilities mature, demand is expected to rise for professionals who understand quantum algorithms, encryption, and infrastructure integration.
- Early upskilling in this space could create a competitive advantage for forward-thinking IT professionals.
Cybersecurity and Cloud Remain Core Competencies
- 71% rank cybersecurity as the most critical long-term skill, with AI/ML (59%) and cloud computing (54%) close behind.
- These core areas remain vital as organisations modernise their infrastructure and defend against growing cyber threats.
Certifications Matter More Than Ever
- A striking 94% of IT pros believe certifications are essential for career growth and job security.
- As hiring slows across the tech industry, verified expertise in key platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, CompTIA Security+) may be the difference-maker in a competitive market.
Remote Work Is the New Norm- Not a Perk
- 88% say remote work is now a dominant and lasting fixture of the IT landscape.
- Flexibility is not only expected, but it’s influencing how companies hire, retain, and build IT teams.
- The shift to virtual teams is also fuelling demand for soft skills like communication, autonomy, and digital collaboration.
Emerging Tech is fuelling New Career Paths
- Alongside AI and quantum, the tech landscape is being shaped by:
- Edge computing: More IT teams will manage decentralised systems close to data sources.
- Augmented reality (AR): Rising in use for training, maintenance, and customer support in IT environments.
- Sustainability tech: IT professionals are increasingly supporting carbon-reduction goals via greener infrastructure and reporting tools.
As technology evolves faster than ever, the ability to adapt is becoming more valuable than any single technical skill. IT professionals who commit to lifelong learning, gain certifications in strategic areas, and embrace emerging tools will be best positioned for long-term success.
The IT career path in 2025 will reward those who anticipate change, not just react to it.
