Technology evolves fast — and if you're building a career in tech (or hoping to break into it), staying ahead of the curve is no longer optional. The skills that were once in high demand are quickly being replaced by automation, AI, and more efficient tools. So, how do you avoid becoming obsolete?
In this article, we’ll break down:
The tech skills that are losing value
The ones you should focus on to future-proof your career
Practical steps to transition and stay relevant in the evolving job market
Tech Skills That Are Becoming Obsolete
Let’s start with a hard truth: some tech skills simply won’t carry you far in the future. If these are your primary strengths, it's time to upskill or shift focus.
1. Manual Testing (Without Automation)
Software testing remains important, but manual-only testing is giving way to automated testing frameworks. Companies want testers who can write scripts and use tools like Selenium, Cypress, or Playwright.
2. Basic HTML/CSS Without Framework Knowledge
Knowing basic HTML and CSS isn’t enough anymore. Employers are looking for front-end developers who can work with modern libraries like React, Vue, or Next.js.
3. Legacy Programming Languages
Languages like COBOL, Fortran, and even Visual Basic are fading outside of niche maintenance roles. If you’re not tied to a legacy system, focus on modern, versatile languages like Python, JavaScript, or Go.
4. Basic IT Support & Data Entry
Thanks to AI and cloud-based tools, basic tech support and data entry tasks are increasingly automated. Instead, companies are prioritising professionals with cloud administration and automation skills.
5. Adobe Flash & Deprecated Web Tech
Flash has been officially discontinued, yet it still appears on some old-school CVs. Let it go — and move toward HTML5, JavaScript-based animations, and WebAssembly.
Tech Skills That Will Be Valuable in the Future
Now let’s talk about where the real opportunities lie.
1. AI & Machine Learning
AI is transforming industries. Skills in Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch, and OpenAI APIs are in high demand. Even basic understanding of prompt engineering and LLM (large language model) behaviour is becoming essential.
2. Cybersecurity
As threats rise, cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing fields. Learn about:
Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC)
Threat detection and response
Network and cloud security Tools to explore: Wireshark, Nessus, Nmap, Splunk
3. Cloud Computing
Cloud is the future of infrastructure. Employers seek cloud-savvy candidates who know:
AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud
Infrastructure as Code (e.g., Terraform)
Serverless architecture
Cloud migration strategies
4. DevOps & Automation
Modern development requires seamless deployment. Gain hands-on experience with:
Docker & Kubernetes
Jenkins, Ansible
GitHub Actions & CI/CD pipelines
5. Data Engineering & Analytics
Data is the new oil — but only if it’s clean, processed, and understood. Valuable tools include:
Python, SQL, Apache Spark, Airflow
BigQuery, Snowflake, dbt
Tableau, Power BI for visualization
6. UX/UI Design
Great products need great experiences. Learn tools like Figma, Adobe XD, and principles of human-centered design. UX research and accessibility skills are especially in demand.
7. Web3 & Blockchain (Emerging)
While not mainstream for every job, understanding blockchain, smart contracts (Solidity), and decentralised apps (dApps) can give you an edge in startups or fintech.
8. Quantum Computing (Early-Stage Skill)
If you’re academically inclined, now’s the time to explore quantum computing. Tools like Qiskit (IBM) and Google Cirq are paving the way for the next computing revolution.
Practical Career Advice for the Changing Tech Landscape
1. Audit Your Current Skill Set
Use LinkedIn or job boards to compare your current skills with in-demand listings. Identify the gaps and opportunities.
2. Commit to Continuous Learning
Learning never stops in tech. Some great platforms:
LinkedIn Learning (great for fundamentals and soft skills)
Coursera (IBM, Google, Meta certificates)
freeCodeCamp, CS50, and MIT OpenCourseWare
3. Transitioning from Obsolete Skills
If your current job uses outdated tools, gradually integrate new ones into your workflow. For example:
From manual testing → learn Selenium or Playwright
From basic front-end → try React or Tailwind CSS
From VB or COBOL → upskill to Python or JavaScript
4. Network and Showcase Your Skills
Contribute to open-source projects
Build a personal portfolio site
Share your learning journey on LinkedIn or Dev.to
Final Thoughts: It’s Not Too Late
The tech world rewards the curious. Whether you’re starting fresh or pivoting from a legacy career, there's always a path forward — if you're willing to evolve. Start small, stay consistent, and don’t be afraid to experiment.
Future-proofing your tech career isn’t about chasing trends — it’s about staying adaptable. Pick one skill to learn this month and take that first step.
© 2025 Marlena Pakula. All Rights Reserved.
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