Top 10 Essential Tech Skills Memphis Employers Seek in 2024

Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.

If you're looking to make some serious moves in the tech world, our city's job market is buzzing, and having the right skills can open doors to awesome career growth.

According to the latest stats, tech jobs in Memphis are set to skyrocket by 18% by 2024 - that's over 3,000 new positions up for grabs! But here's the thing, employers aren't just hiring anyone.

They want candidates who can hit the ground running with the skills they need.

Straight from the Tennessee Tech Association's survey, the top skills employers are hunting for include:

• Python programming: Highly sought after for its versatility and industry's demand.
• SQL data analysis: Essential for managing and analyzing complex data sets.
• Cybersecurity expertise: Protects organizations from data breaches and threats.
• Cloud computing (AWS): Supports scalable computing power and services.
• JavaScript development: Critical for building interactive web applications.

As Richard Garcia from XYZCorp puts it,

In today's fast-paced tech scene, having the right skills can make or break your chances of landing that dream job and accelerating your career.

So if you're serious about making it big, check out Nucamp's coding bootcamps - they'll hook you up with the skills you need to stand out from the crowd.

We put in the work to figure out the hottest tech skills Memphis employers are craving in 2024. First, we dived deep into data from the big dogs like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Tennessee's workforce initiatives, and job posting trends on sites like Indeed and LinkedIn.

But that's not all! We linked up with major tech players in Memphis like FedEx, AutoZone, and ServiceMaster to get the inside scoop on what they're really looking for.

We're talking skills that are industry-relevant, adaptable, in high demand but short supply, and offer solid career growth opportunities. During our roundtable sessions, their HR bosses and tech leaders spilled the tea.

To top it off, we hit up the brain trust at the University of Memphis and Rhodes College.

These professors from computer science and engineering shared the skills they're teaching students to prepare them for the real world. As Dr. Nancy Anderson from the University of Memphis put it, "Our goal is to produce tech-savvy graduates who can seamlessly transition into the workforce, contributing their expertise to drive innovation and growth in Memphis' thriving tech ecosystem." With all this intel, we've got the inside track on the skills that'll make you a hot commodity in 2024!

Python is the ultimate coding language to know. It's blowing up mega time cuz companies everywhere are heavily relying on it. Python skills are in crazy demand, with devs using it for everything from web development to AI and data analysis.

According to a study, over a third of developers are rocking Python - that's massive! The versatility of Python is off the charts - you can automate tasks, build websites, crunch data, you name it.

In Memphis, Python opens up a world of rad career opportunities.

Major companies like FedEx are all about that Python life for data crunching and app dev. Even startups are leveraging Python's flexibility for AI and machine learning wizardry.

If you're trying to level up your tech skills, mastering Python is an absolute must.

With salaries ranging from $80K to $130K for Python-related roles, you could be rolling in cash!

The good news is, Memphis has awesome Python resources on tap.

You can enroll in coding bootcamps like NuCamp to go from zero to Python pro with their intensive programs. There are also wicked communities like Python Memphis hosting meetups and workshops.

If you're not already hopping on the Python train, you're missing out big time!

Daniel Taylor from FedEx said, "Python's versatility is a massive career asset in today's ever-evolving digital landscape."

The tech scene in Memphis is heating up, and if you wanna stay ahead of the game, SQL is where it's at. This data analysis language is quickly becoming a must-have skill for anyone trying to break into the world of data-driven decision-making.

Companies are practically drooling over people who can wrangle big data and turn it into something meaningful. The demand for SQL-savvy data analysts in Memphis is expected to skyrocket by a whopping 18% by 2024! That's some serious growth right there.

But why is SQL such a big deal, you ask? Well, it's all about efficiency.

With SQL, you can seamlessly interact with databases, extracting, manipulating, and organizing data like a total boss. It's like having a superpower that lets you uncover hidden patterns and trends that would otherwise remain buried in mountains of raw data.

And let's be real, this skill isn't just limited to the data nerds anymore. Industries like healthcare, finance, marketing, and e-commerce are all jumping on the SQL bandwagon because it's that valuable.

Here's the real kicker, though - mastering SQL can seriously boost your earning potential.

We're talking an average salary premium of 12% compared to those who don't speak the language. That's some serious cash! With SQL under your belt, you'll be able to:

• Streamline data analysis like a pro.
• Optimize database performance to lightning-fast speeds.
• Develop mind-blowing data reporting solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams like a rockstar.

According to Patricia Hernandez, a leading data scientist in Memphis,

"SQL has become the common language of data analysis, bridging the gap between raw data and insights that actually mean something."

So if you're looking to land a sweet gig as a data analyst or anything data-related, you better start getting cozy with SQL. Trust me, it's the skill that's gonna set you apart from the pack in 2024 and beyond.

Cybersecurity expertise is essential these days. As businesses go all-in on digital, protecting their data and systems from cyber threats is a major deal. In Memphis, the demand for cybersecurity pros is gonna skyrocket in 2024, with an expected 18% spike in job openings according to the University of Memphis Cyber Workforce Analytics Center.

The cybersecurity grind covers various roles, each vital for keeping organizations secure from cyber risks.

Some of the hottest jobs in Memphis this year include:

• Information Security Analysts: These professionals plan and execute security measures to safeguard a company's computer systems and networks, ensuring protection is paramount.
• Cybersecurity Consultants: Experts who provide businesses the critical guidance on effective cybersecurity strategies and best practices.
• Penetration Testers: They simulate cyber attacks to identify vulnerabilities, helping fortify organizational defenses.
• Incident Response Analysts: When cyber incidents occur, these analysts quickly respond to minimize damage and maintain smooth operations.

According to the Memphis Area Association of Governments,

"The region's cybersecurity workforce is projected to face a critical shortage, with an estimated gap of over 2,000 positions by 2024."

That's a wake-up call to get trained and certified in cybersecurity, so you can develop the skills needed to snag one of these vital roles and protect businesses from cyber risks.

Cloud computing is shaking things up in the tech world, and Amazon Web Services (AWS) is leading the charge.

With businesses going all-in on cloud solutions for flexibility, scalability, and cost savings, the need for AWS skills in Memphis is skyrocketing. A recent survey found that 69% of organizations in Tennessee are already using cloud services, with AWS being the top dog.

For Memphis employers, having AWS expertise on board is a game-changer, allowing companies to optimize their tech infrastructure, streamline operations, and stay ahead of the curve.

With AWS offering a wide range of services like computing, storage, databases, analytics, machine learning, and security, professionals with AWS skills are in high demand.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 27% growth in cloud computing roles in Tennessee by 2026, so companies are scrambling to secure AWS talent.

To meet this demand, Memphis is stepping up its AWS training game.

You can level up your AWS skills at places like:

• The University of Memphis: Offers AWS Cloud Computing Certification programs and AWS-focused courses.
• Memphis AWS User Group: A community-driven initiative with hands-on workshops, meetups, and networking opportunities for AWS enthusiasts.
• Online platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and AWS Skills Build: Offering self-paced, online courses covering all things AWS.

With the right AWS skills, you can unlock a world of career opportunities, like Cloud Architect, DevOps Engineer, Solutions Architect, and Cloud Developer roles.

With tech giants and startups flocking to Memphis, mastering AWS could be your ticket to a sweet gig in the city's booming tech scene.

"AWS skills aren't just a nice-to-have anymore, they're essential for tech professionals who want to stay competitive," says Joseph Miller, CTO at a leading Memphis tech firm. "The cloud is the future, and AWS is paving the way."

The web dev game is about to get spicy in Memphis, and JavaScript jobs are where it's at.

These gigs are hotter than a summer day down South, and all the major players are hunting for JS ninjas to level up their digital vibes. We're talking companies like FedEx, AutoZone, and ServiceMaster – they want devs who can craft slick user experiences with JavaScript's versatile powers.

By 2024, over 75% of Memphis tech firms are planning to beef up their web dev squads, and they're all thirsty for that JavaScript sauce.

Whether you're a frontend wizard spinning up mind-blowing UIs with React, Angular, or Vue.js, or a backend beast taming Node.js servers, your skills are gonna be in high demand.

The job market is looking sweeter than a plate of Memphis BBQ, with web dev gigs projected to spike by 13% in the next few years.

Smart moves are being made to fuel this JS revolution too.

The University of Memphis is rolling out a Web Development Certificate loaded with JavaScript training to cook up fresh talent. And coding bootcamps like Nucamp are fast-tracking folks into those lucrative full-stack roles in just a few months.

If you're looking to level up your career and get paid like a boss, mastering JavaScript is the cheat code you need right now.

DevOps, the combo of "development" and "operations," has become a game-changer in the tech world, bringing devs and IT ops together like never before. With businesses pushing for faster releases and continuous delivery, the demand for DevOps pros in Memphis has skyrocketed.

A study by the Memphis Tech Council revealed a mind-blowing 63% increase in DevOps job postings from 2021 to 2024, showing how much the city values agile and efficient software deployment.

The core principles of DevOps are all about collaboration, automation, and never-ending improvement.

By fostering tight communication and shared responsibilities between dev and ops teams, companies can achieve:

• Faster software delivery: Development and operations collaborate to release updates quickly.
• Next-level quality assurance: Rigorous testing ensures high-quality software.
• Improved scalability and reliability: Systems adapt better to workload changes.
• Shorter time-to-market: New products and features are released swiftly.

Major players like FedEx, headquartered right here in Memphis, have jumped on the DevOps train, using it to streamline their software dev processes and deliver innovative solutions to customers faster.

AutoZone, another Memphis giant in auto parts retail, has leveraged DevOps to boost their eCommerce platform's agility and responsiveness, ensuring a smooth online shopping experience for everyone.

As the demand for DevOps expertise keeps rising, Memphis has got your back with plenty of educational resources and training opportunities.

Local schools like the University of Memphis and Rhodes College offer specialized courses and certifications in DevOps, giving aspiring pros the skills they need to crush it in this dynamic field.

"DevOps isn't just a buzzword; it's a cultural shift that empowers organizations to deliver software faster, more reliably, and with greater efficiency," said Dr. Jessica Moore, a DevOps instructor at the U of M.

Machine learning is the hottest trend in tech right now, and it's only getting bigger in 2024.

It's like AI's cooler sibling, helping computers learn from data and make crazy accurate predictions. Companies in Memphis are going all-in on this tech, with over 60% planning to level up their machine learning game by next year.

They're using it to optimize everything from delivery routes to customer service experiences.

Just look at the big dogs like FedEx and AutoZone - they're already using machine learning to streamline their operations and stay ahead of the curve.

But it's not just the corporate giants; even smaller businesses are exploring ways to leverage this tech to gain a competitive edge.

If you're looking to break into this field, Memphis has got your back.

Check out the University of Memphis' Data Science and Machine Learning program, or hit up Code Crew for some hands-on training. Online platforms like Coursera and edX also offer a ton of courses to get you started.

And don't sleep on the local meetup scene - groups like the Memphis Data Science Group and the AI/ML Meetup are great places to network and sharpen your skills.

According to Dr. Santosh Kumar from the University of Memphis,

"Machine learning is the future, and Memphis is well-positioned to become a hub for this cutting-edge technology."

With the right resources and a solid understanding of the fundamentals, you can be part of the next wave of innovators shaping the machine learning landscape.

It's time to level up your tech game!

The digital world is going crazy in 2024, and UI/UX design is where it's at. This whole thing about making apps and websites super slick and easy to use? That's what UI/UX is all about, and companies are all over it.

Like, they're digging designers who can make their digital stuff totally intuitive and tailored to what users actually want. The latest trends are insane—think immersive experiences with AR/VR, voice interfaces, and designs that adapt to your vibe.

Here in Memphis, the demand for UI/UX wizards is skyrocketing.

Big names like FedEx, AutoZone, and ServiceMaster are hunting for talent that can elevate their digital game. Studies show that companies killing it with UI/UX see customer satisfaction soar by like 83% compared to those lagging behind.

That's huge! The University of Memphis, Midsouth Makers, and even the local libraries are stepping up with programs to help you level up your UI/UX skills. It's a golden opportunity to get in on the action and shape how people interact with tech.

Just like Steve Jobs said:

Design isn't just about looks—it's about making things work seamlessly for the user.

So, if you're looking to make moves in the tech world, mastering UI/UX could be your golden ticket.

In the Memphis tech scene, Agile development is where it's at, taking project management to a whole new level.

This iterative approach allows teams to roll with the punches, adapting to changes on the fly and delivering top-notch solutions at lightning speed. Companies that go Agile see a 28% boost in successful projects, according to the Project Management Institute.

That's some serious game-changing stuff! For tech whizzes in Memphis, mastering Agile opens up a world of career opportunities. With the demand for Agile experts skyrocketing, roles like Scrum Masters, Agile Project Managers, Agile Coaches, and DevOps Engineers are expected to see a 15% jump in job openings by 2024, says the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

And we're talking big bucks too – the average Agile pro in Memphis rakes in a cool $92,000 annually. Talk about a sweet deal! Memphis has got your back when it comes to leveling up your Agile skills.

Organizations like Agile Alliance and Scrum Alliance offer legit certification programs, while local spots like the University of Memphis hook you up with Agile-focused courses and workshops.

With Agile revolutionizing project management in the Memphis tech scene, getting on board is a no-brainer if you want to stay ahead of the game and unlock new opportunities left and right.

Mobile apps are where it's at these days, and the numbers don't lie - this industry is blowing up like crazy! With mobile app revenue expected to hit a mind-blowing $935 billion by 2024, companies in Memphis are scrambling to hire skilled app developers.

The Memphis job market report listed app development as one of the hottest and fastest-growing career paths for 2024.

And free apps with in-app purchases and subscriptions are raking in 98% of the revenue, so there's serious cash to be made!

If you want to score a sweet gig in the app dev world, you've got to skill up.

Luckily, Memphis has some solid options like the Front End Web + Mobile Development bootcamp at Nucamp, where you'll learn React and React Native.

Or check out the mobile computing program at the University of Memphis. With the right training, you could be landing one of those coveted $92K app developer roles in no time!