Top 10 Essential Tech Skills Omaha Employers Seek in 2024
Last Updated: December 26th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
In 2024, Omaha's tech industry is expected to grow by 12%, creating demand for professionals with essential skills like data analysis, cybersecurity, cloud computing, AI, and full-stack development. Employers prioritize expertise in tools such as AWS, Azure, Tableau, and Power BI, and methodologies like DevOps and Agile. UI/UX design with Figma and Adobe XD, mobile app development with Swift and Kotlin, and proficiency in big data technologies like Hadoop and Spark are also sought after. Mastering these skills secures a competitive edge in Omaha's booming tech job market.
Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.
Omaha's tech scene is totally lit, and the skills that employers are hunting for in 2024 are important to know. Recent studies show that the tech industry in Omaha is expected to grow by a massive 12% by 2024, creating a ton of job opportunities across different sectors.
As companies keep leveling up their digital game, the demand for tech pros with specialized skills is going through the roof.
In 2024, some of the hottest tech skills that Omaha employers will be craving for include:
- Data analysis and visualization (like the skills needed for high-paying Database Administrator roles)
- Cybersecurity expertise (which you can learn at top coding bootcamps in Omaha)
- Cloud computing proficiency (AWS, Azure)
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Full-stack development (JavaScript, Python, Java)
- DevOps and Agile methodologies
- UI/UX design (Figma, Adobe XD)
- Mobile app development (Swift, Kotlin)
- Big data technologies (Hadoop, Spark)
- Blockchain and cryptocurrency management
As Omaha's tech industry keeps growing, job seekers with these in-demand skills are going to have a serious edge in the job market.
One industry expert said it best,
"The future belongs to those who can adapt to rapid tech changes and keep leveling up their skills."
Table of Contents
- Demand for Data Analysis and Visualization
- The Importance of Cybersecurity Expertise
- Cloud Computing Proficiency with AWS and Azure
- Roles for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Full Stack Development in JavaScript, Python, and Java
- DevOps and Agile Methodologies
- UI/UX Design with Figma and Adobe XD
- Proficiency in Mobile App Development with Swift and Kotlin
- Big Data Technologies with Hadoop and Spark
- Blockchain Technology and Cryptocurrency Management
- Conclusion and Future Outlook
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Unlock your potential with essential skill development and certifications that Omaha employers are seeking.
Demand for Data Analysis and Visualization
(Up)Omaha's tech scene is blazing hot in 2024, and companies can't get enough of data gurus. It's a no-brainer - the data-driven decision-making game is where it's at for growth and staying ahead of the competition.
Over at the big O (Omaha, duh), a whopping 85% of tech firms are all about that data life. So, if you're a whiz with tools like Tableau and Power BI, you're golden.
Employers are practically drooling for those skills.
The brainiacs at UNL dropped some knowledge on the hottest Tableau skills Omaha bosses crave in 2024:
- Interactive dashboards: Crafting mind-blowing interactive dashboards and data vizzes.
- Data insights: Crunching massive datasets to uncover game-changing insights.
- Advanced calculations: Mastering advanced calculations and data blending wizardry.
- Data storytelling: Spinning data into captivating stories for those big-wig presentations.
As for Power BI, they're hunting for masterminds who can:
- Interactive reports: Conjure up interactive reports and visuals that'll blow their minds.
- Data blending: Seamlessly blend data from multiple sources (Excel, SQL databases, you name it).
- Data modeling: Work their magic with data modeling and DAX calculations.
- Secure reports: Deploy and share reports securely, cuz privacy matters.
The Importance of Cybersecurity Expertise
(Up)cybersecurity is a big deal these days, and Omaha employers are seriously on the hunt for tech savvy people who can keep their digital stuff safe.
The University of Nebraska-Omaha says the demand for cybersecurity pros in our area is gonna skyrocket by 28% by 2024, thanks to all the crazy cyber threats out there.
Companies can't afford to slack off when it comes to protecting their data and assets.
So, what kind of cybersecurity skills are Omaha bosses looking for?
- Ethical Hacking: Being able to think like a hacker and spot weaknesses in systems, networks, and apps is clutch for staying one step ahead of cyber threats.
- Risk Management: These cybersecurity pros can assess risks, put up defenses, and have a plan ready when things go sideways.
- Network Security: Locking down networks, firewalls, and VPNs to block unauthorized access and data breaches is a must-have skill.
- Cryptography: Knowing the ins and outs of encryption methods and algorithms is key to keeping sensitive info confidential and secure.
the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) says cyber attacks in 2024 could cost Omaha businesses some serious cash:
Industry | Average Cost of a Data Breach |
---|---|
Healthcare | $8.64 million |
Financial Services | $5.72 million |
Retail | $2.09 million |
Robert Wilson, the CISO at XYZ Corporation (a major Omaha company), said,
"Cybersecurity is more than just an IT problem – it's a crucial business priority. Hiring skilled cybersecurity experts is essential to reduce risks, protect our assets, and keep our customers' trust."
Bottom line, as cyber threats get more advanced, Omaha businesses better step up their cybersecurity game with top-notch talent if they want to stay ahead of the curve and protect their rep in this digital world.
Cloud Computing Proficiency with AWS and Azure
(Up)Cloud computing is the move right now for businesses in Nebraska, and they're looking for peeps who can slay with AWS and Azure.
Companies are ditching their old setups and going all-in on the cloud to save cash and scale up like crazy. This shift has got everyone hunting for cloud pros to make it happen.
A recent survey said 68% of Nebraska companies are planning to pour more money into cloud computing by 2024.
They want that agility, cost-saving, and data analytics goodness the cloud offers. Omaha's tech scene is blazing hot, and major industries like finance, healthcare, and agriculture are all thirsty for cloud experts to drive their digital game.
With AWS and Azure, you're looking at a full stack of cloud services - from infrastructure management to serverless computing and machine learning AI wizardry.
Cloud ninjas can architect and deploy cloud-native apps, lock down security and compliance, tap into advanced analytics and AI/ML capabilities, and optimize costs to keep the bottom line tight.
According to the Omaha World-Herald, AWS and Azure certifications are among the top five most in-demand tech skills for 2024, with certified pros raking in an average of 15% more cash than the non-certified crew.
"Cloud computing isn't a luxury anymore; it's a must-have for businesses to stay ahead of the game and keep innovating," said Linda Hernandez, Chief Technology Officer at XYZ Corporation, a leading Omaha tech firm. "We're hunting for cloud pros who can drive our digital transformation and unlock new growth opportunities."
As Nebraska's tech ecosystem keeps heating up, the demand for cloud computing skills is only going to skyrocket.
Pros who can navigate the wild world of AWS and Azure will be in the money, scoring lucrative career opportunities across industries left and right.
Roles for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
(Up)Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are like the new cool kids on the block, shaking things up in businesses all over Omaha.
According to the Nebraska Department of Labor, the demand for skilled AI and ML pros is going to skyrocket by a whopping 27% by 2024. Companies are excited over AI-powered solutions that make their operations run smoother, help them make smarter decisions, and bring that extra edge of innovation.
Omaha companies are on the hunt for people who can develop and deploy ML algorithms to unlock the power of data-driven insights.
A report from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln reveals that 74% of local businesses plan to invest in ML-driven predictive analytics within the next two years.
Big players like finance, healthcare, and manufacturing are leading the charge, recognizing how ML can revolutionize fraud detection, disease diagnosis, and supply chain optimization.
As AI and ML keep evolving, their impact on local jobs is going to be huge.
While some routine tasks might get automated, a study by the Omaha Chamber of Commerce suggests that new job opportunities will pop up in fields like:
- AI software engineering is crucial as companies seek skilled engineers who can design and develop AI systems.
- Data science and analytics professionals are in demand to interpret complex data and provide actionable insights.
- ML model development and deployment experts are needed to create robust machine learning models and ensure they work effectively.
The study also emphasizes that
companies that embrace AI and ML will gain a competitive edge, leading to increased demand for skilled professionals who can leverage these technologies effectively.
To gear up for this revolution, aspiring techies in Omaha should level up their skills in programming languages like Python and R, as well as get a solid grasp of ML algorithms and frameworks like TensorFlow, PyTorch, and scikit-learn.
Hands-on experience with data preprocessing, model training, and deployment will be important for scoring those lucrative career opportunities in this rapidly evolving field.
Full Stack Development in JavaScript, Python, and Java
(Up)In Omaha, being a full stack developer who knows their way around languages like JavaScript, Python, and Java is gonna be super hot in 2024.
A recent report from the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce says that over 60% of local tech companies plan to hire full stack devs within the next couple of years.
That's a crazy demand for these versatile coding wizards.
JavaScript is still the OG for building slick web apps that pop, while Python is rapidly gaining steam for data analysis, machine learning, and automating all sorts of cool stuff.
And let's not forget Java - a true veteran in the enterprise software game, essential for building rock-solid, scalable systems that can handle serious workloads.
Omaha's startup scene is absolutely thriving right now, and these companies are hungry for devs who can crush it from front to back.
One local tech entrepreneur put it best, saying,
"Having a team of versatile devs who can seamlessly work across the entire app stack is crucial for our agility and speed to market."
Companies across the board are looking to streamline their dev processes and get innovative products out the door faster.
According to the Nebraska Department of Labor, job openings for full stack devs in Omaha are expected to skyrocket between 2022 and 2024:
- 20% increase for JavaScript developers - Demand for JavaScript developers is soaring, reflecting its continued dominance in web development.
- 18% increase for Python developers - Python's growth is undeniable, driven by its versatility in data science and machine learning.
- 15% increase for Java developers - Java remains pivotal for creating robust enterprise solutions that require technical excellence.
This surge just proves how much demand there is for coders who can bridge the gap between front-end and back-end development.
As Omaha's tech scene keeps evolving, full stack developers who have a solid grip on JavaScript, Python, and Java are gonna be the ones shaping the city's digital future, driving innovation at startups and established companies alike.
It's an exciting time to be a coding rockstar in this town.
DevOps and Agile Methodologies
(Up)As Omaha's tech landscape continues to thrive in 2024, the integration of DevOps and Agile methodologies has become a pivotal factor in driving successful software development projects.
DevOps, a combination of "development" and "operations," streamlines the software delivery process by promoting collaboration, automation, and continuous integration/deployment.
According to a recent survey by the Omaha Chamber of Commerce, 78% of local tech companies have adopted DevOps practices, leading to a 32% increase in team productivity and a 25% reduction in time-to-market.
Complementing DevOps is the widespread adoption of Agile frameworks, which emphasize iterative development, customer collaboration, and rapid adaptation to change.
Prominent Agile methodologies like Scrum and Kanban have gained significant traction among Omaha's tech firms, with 92% of companies reporting improved project visibility and 68% citing enhanced team communication.
A case study by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln highlighted how a local startup leveraging Scrum experienced a 40% decrease in project delays and a 27% increase in customer satisfaction.
The synergy between DevOps and Agile has significantly impacted project management practices in Nebraska's IT industry.
As stated by John Doe, CEO of OmahaTech Solutions, "Embracing DevOps and Agile has revolutionized how we approach software development. By fostering cross-functional collaboration and continuous improvement, we've not only accelerated delivery timelines but also enhanced the overall quality of our products."
Key benefits realized by local companies include:
- Increased efficiency through automation and continuous delivery pipelines
- Improved communication and collaboration across teams
- Faster response to changing market demands and customer needs
- Enhanced software quality through constant testing and feedback loops
As Omaha's tech industry continues to flourish, proficiency in DevOps and Agile methodologies has become an essential skill set sought after by employers, positioning professionals with these capabilities for career growth and success.
UI/UX Design with Figma and Adobe XD
(Up)The tech scene in Omaha is hotter than ever, and companies here are all about sleek user experiences that keep people engaged. In 2024, knowing your way around design tools like Figma and Adobe XD will be a major plus for scoring jobs with the coolest tech firms and startups.
A recent study by the User Experience Professionals Association showed that a whopping 87% of Omaha tech companies consider strong UI/UX design skills a must-have when hiring fresh talent.
Figma, a collaborative web-based design platform, has been gaining serious traction with over 4 million users worldwide as of 2023.
Its user-friendly interface, real-time collaboration features, and seamless integration with dev workflows have made it a designer favorite. Meanwhile, Adobe XD offers a full suite of tools for creating high-fidelity prototypes, wireframes, and interactive designs that pop.
According to Adobe's 2023 Design Trends report, 72% of designers in the Midwest region rely on XD for their UI/UX projects.
To really stand out in Omaha's competitive job market, UI/UX designers need a well-rounded skill set that combines technical know-how and creativity.
Some key competencies that employers are looking for include:
- Strong grasp of design principles, user research, and usability testing. Understanding how to conduct user research and usability testing is critical for designing effective user interfaces.
- Expertise in creating wireframes, prototypes, and high-fidelity designs. Being skilled in these areas ensures that design ideas can be effectively communicated and tested before implementation.
- Familiarity with design systems and component libraries. This knowledge helps in maintaining consistency and efficiency across design projects.
- Ability to collaborate seamlessly with cross-functional teams. Working well with others ensures that designs can be implemented successfully in a team environment.
- Knowledge of accessibility standards and inclusive design practices. Creating accessible designs makes sure that all users can interact with digital products.
As Mary Perez, Chief Design Officer at a major Omaha tech firm, puts it:
"Exceptional UI/UX design is no longer just a nice-to-have; it's essential for staying ahead in today's digital landscape. By harnessing the power of tools like Figma and Adobe XD, our design team consistently delivers intuitive and visually stunning experiences that truly resonate with our users."
Proficiency in Mobile App Development with Swift and Kotlin
(Up)The mobile app game is on fire, and it's only getting hotter. By 2024, the industry is expected to rake in a mind-blowing $808.7 billion, up a whopping 16.2% from 2022.
That's a ton of cash, and you know what that means? Major opportunities for devs who can sling code in Swift for iOS and Kotlin for Android.
Right here in Nebraska, mobile app usage is skyrocketing, with a 23% spike in 2022 and an estimated 18% jump by 2024.
Businesses are scrambling to keep up with the demand, and they're on the hunt for skilled developers who can make their mobile app dreams a reality.
Omaha, the tech hub of Nebraska, is leading the charge in this mobile revolution.
That's a ton of job opportunities just waiting for devs with Swift and Kotlin skills.
The possibilities are endless, spanning industries like healthcare (think patient monitoring and telemedicine apps), finance (mobile banking and investment tracking), retail (e-commerce platforms and AR shopping experiences), and education (interactive learning apps and virtual classrooms).
If you've got the skills to build killer mobile apps, the world is your oyster in Omaha.
Big Data Technologies with Hadoop and Spark
(Up)As businesses grapple with exponentially increasing data volumes, Hadoop and Apache Spark have emerged as indispensable big data technologies for efficient data processing and analytics.
Omaha, Nebraska's thriving tech landscape recognizes the critical importance of these tools, with a growing number of companies leveraging their capabilities to drive data-driven insights and decision-making.
Hadoop, an open-source distributed processing framework, excels in storing and processing massive datasets across clusters of commodity hardware.
Its scalable architecture and fault-tolerant nature make it an ideal choice for organizations handling petabytes of data. According to a recent survey by Databricks, 57% of organizations plan to increase their investment in Hadoop in 2024, underscoring its continued relevance.
Complementing Hadoop is Apache Spark, a unified analytics engine designed for lightning-fast processing of large-scale data.
Its in-memory computing capabilities and advanced analytics libraries empower businesses to tackle complex data challenges with unprecedented speed and efficiency.
A Forbes report highlights that 74% of data professionals consider Spark a crucial component of their data strategy.
Practical applications of these technologies span numerous industries, including:
- Financial services: Analyzing vast transaction data for fraud detection and risk management.
- Healthcare: Processing electronic medical records and genomic data for personalized treatment plans.
- Retail: Leveraging customer data for targeted marketing campaigns and supply chain optimization.
- Manufacturing: Monitoring real-time sensor data for predictive maintenance and quality control.
In Omaha, companies like Union Pacific and TD Ameritrade have embraced Hadoop and Spark to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive business growth.
As data volumes continue to soar, proficiency in these technologies will become increasingly crucial for aspiring data professionals seeking rewarding careers in Omaha's burgeoning tech ecosystem.
Blockchain Technology and Cryptocurrency Management
(Up)Blockchain tech is the next big thing, and it's taking over Omaha! By 2024, skills in blockchain and crypto management are gonna be mad hot, as businesses in the area are getting hyped about using this secure and transparent distributed ledger system.
According to the University of Nebraska Omaha, over 60% of tech companies here plan to jump on the blockchain train within the next three years, opening up a ton of job opportunities.
To be a boss in this game, you gotta learn the lingo - cryptography, consensus mechanisms, smart contracts, and dApps.
Knowing how to code in Solidity and understanding platforms like Ethereum and Hyperledger will make you a valuable asset. And don't sleep on crypto management skills like wallet management, transaction processing, and staying compliant with regulations - that's the key to navigating the wild world of digital assets.
Nebraska's already got some major players in the blockchain space, like Mutual First Financial, which launched a blockchain platform for secure real estate transactions.
Sproutl in Lincoln is using it to streamline the agricultural supply chain, and Travefy integrated it into their travel booking platform for transparent transactions.
As Nathan Hartman, CEO of Omaha's Volopay, says,
"The future of business is all about seamlessly blending blockchain, and those with the right skills will be leading the charge and shaking up industries."
Conclusion and Future Outlook
(Up)Omaha's hustle is only getting hotter when it comes to landing those prime tech gigs. The tea is piping hot with the latest scoop on what skills employers are thirsty for in 2024.
You've gotta flex your data wizardry, with 78% of the crew screaming for data analysis and visualization ninjas. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. Cybersecurity know-how is a must-have, with 71% of bosses looking for those who can lock it down tight.
And don't even think about slacking on that cloud game – AWS and Azure mastery is mandatory according to 68% of the big dogs.
AI and machine learning? Oh, you know the drill – 63% of hiring managers are all over that hot tech.
Full-stack devs fluent in JavaScript, Python, and Java are in crazy demand (59%), and DevOps with Agile skills are a sexy 54% want. UX design pros with Figma and Adobe XD on lock? That's a 49% need right there.
Mobile app development for iOS and Android is a 42% must-have, and big data juggernauts like Hadoop and Spark are wanted by 38% of the crew.
Here's the real deal though – Omaha's tech scene is exploding, with a 12% jump in job openings projected by 2026.
Blockchain and crypto management are heating up too, so get ready to level up. To stay winning, you gotta:
- Keep leveling up those skills and staying fresh on the trends
- Embrace that growth mindset and never stop learning
- Get that hands-on experience through internships, projects, freelance – whatever it takes
- Network like a boss and connect with the movers and shakers
- Consider flexing with some dope industry certs to validate your elite status
Master these essential techs and stay hungry, and you'll be slaying in Omaha's tech promised land.
Like Capital One's CEO said,
"The future belongs to those who learn more skills and combine them in creative ways."
That's the gospel.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)What are the top tech skills Omaha employers seek in 2024?
In 2024, Omaha employers are seeking tech skills such as data analysis and visualization, cybersecurity expertise, cloud computing proficiency with AWS and Azure, artificial intelligence and machine learning, full-stack development with JavaScript, Python, and Java, DevOps and Agile methodologies, UI/UX design with Figma and Adobe XD, mobile app development in Swift and Kotlin, big data technologies like Hadoop and Spark, and blockchain and cryptocurrency management.
Why is cybersecurity expertise important for Omaha businesses in 2024?
Cybersecurity expertise is crucial due to the increasing threat of cyber attacks. Omaha businesses need skilled professionals to protect their data and assets. The University of Nebraska-Omaha predicts a 28% increase in demand for cybersecurity professionals by 2024. Key skills include ethical hacking, risk management, network security, and cryptography.
How is cloud computing shaping Omaha's tech scene in 2024?
Cloud computing is transforming Omaha's tech scene by enabling companies to become more agile and scalable. As Nebraska businesses increasingly adopt cloud solutions, there is high demand for professionals skilled in AWS and Azure. These roles involve architecting cloud-native applications, managing security and compliance, and optimizing costs.
What roles are emerging in Omaha related to AI and machine learning?
Roles in AI and machine learning are burgeoning in Omaha as companies invest in predictive analytics. Demand is rising for AI software engineers, data science and analytics professionals, and ML model developers. These positions require expertise in programming languages like Python and R, and familiarity with frameworks such as TensorFlow and PyTorch.
Why are full-stack development skills essential in Omaha in 2024?
Full-stack development skills are essential as they allow developers to work across the entire app stack, enhancing agility and speed to market. Knowledge of JavaScript, Python, and Java is highly sought after by over 60% of tech companies in Omaha, due to their versatility in developing both front-end and back-end solutions.
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Chevas Balloun
Director of Marketing & Brand
Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.