Top 10 Essential Tech Skills Surprise Employers Seek in 2024

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Arizona's tech scene is absolutely killing it right now, and it's only getting hotter. Just check out these mind-blowing stats from the Arizona Technology Council - major companies like Intel, TSMC, and LG are pouring billions into new facilities, creating thousands of high-paying tech jobs across the state.

We're talking a projected 9% increase in tech employment by 2028, outpacing the national average. To score one of those sweet gigs, you gotta stay on top of the latest skills.

According to CompTIA's "State of the Tech Workforce 2024", positions in software, data science, AI, and cybersecurity are going to be in highest demand this year.

And if you want to level up your portfolio, definitely check out Nucamp's tips for creating a standout tech portfolio in Surprise.

You'll need to bring your A-game to land those coveted roles in Arizona's scorching hot tech market.

Python is straight-up crushing it in 2024. This programming language is the real MVP for anyone looking to level up their tech skills in Arizona. An insane 87% of tech companies in the state are using Python for data analysis, machine learning, and AI, according to the Arizona Technology Council.

What makes Python so fire? It's crazy versatile and user-friendly, making it perfect for tackling complex data challenges.

Companies like Raytheon Missiles & Defense in Tucson and Insight Enterprises in Tempe are going all-in on Python for their cutting-edge data science projects.

Lisa White, Chief Data Scientist at Insight Enterprises, said,

"Python's extensive library ecosystem allows us to streamline our machine learning pipelines, enabling quicker deployment of predictive models that drive business growth."

But Python isn't just a one-trick pony.

It's making waves across different industries in Arizona:

• Healthcare: Companies like Banner Health are using Python to process medical data and develop AI-driven diagnostic tools.
• Finance: Big players like JPMorgan Chase and American Express are leveraging Python for quantitative analysis and risk modeling.
• Manufacturing: Major names like Intel and Honeywell are employing Python for automation, quality control, and predictive maintenance solutions.

With data and AI/ML technologies blowing up, knowing Python is an absolute game-changer for tech pros in Arizona.

Its simplicity, scalability, and extensive libraries make it the go-to language for conquering complex data challenges, driving innovation, and keeping the state's tech ecosystem on fire.

Cloud computing is the future, and Microsoft Azure is leading the charge. As someone who's always online, I know how important it is to keep up with the latest tech trends.

Azure roles and responsibilities are in high demand, with companies scrambling to find experts who can navigate this game-changing platform.

According to recent studies, over 65% of Arizona's tech firms are already on board with Azure, and adoption rates are skyrocketing by 20% every year.

Major players like GoDaddy, Insight Enterprises, and Carvana are harnessing Azure's power for computing, storage, and analytics, and they're not the only ones.

Job growth for cloud computing pros in Arizona is projected to soar by a staggering 27% from 2022 to 2027, outpacing the national average.

• Scalability: With its scalability, companies can rapidly adjust their infrastructure to meet demands without breaking the bank on hardware.
• Data Analytics: Azure's data analytics capabilities allow businesses to leverage machine learning and AI for data-driven decision-making, giving them a competitive edge.
• Hybrid Cloud Integration: Azure's hybrid cloud integration makes transitioning legacy systems to the cloud a breeze.

As Nancy Jackson, Chief Technology Officer at a leading Arizona fintech firm, put it, "Cloud computing is no longer a luxury; it's a necessity. Mastering platforms like Azure is crucial for businesses to remain agile, secure, and competitive in today's digital age." With the tech world moving at breakneck speed, it's clear that Azure expertise is the key to unlocking future success.

Let's talk about the new super-hot skill that all the cool companies are looking for - cybersecurity expertise.

With hackers and scammers getting smarter every day, keeping data safe is like a full-time job, and Arizona businesses know it. According to a study, a whopping 92% of organizations in the state got hit by some kind of cyber attack last year, which is nuts! That's why they're going all-in on security measures, with 71% making cybersecurity training mandatory for all employees, 68% having dedicated security teams, and a massive 84% boosting their cybersecurity budgets for 2024.

To keep up with this crazy demand, schools across Arizona are stepping up their game with some serious cybersecurity programs and certifications.

You've got the University of Arizona offering the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification, ASU with their M.S. in Cybersecurity, and even Pima Community College getting in on the action with a Cybersecurity Certificate.

It's like they're training an army of cyber warriors to protect our digital lives!

And the big shots in the industry are taking notice. Joseph Lopez, the CISO (that's Chief Information Security Officer) at GoDaddy, said

"Cybersecurity is a top priority for us. With evolving threats, we need skilled professionals who can proactively identify and mitigate risks to protect our customers' data and our reputation."

Basically, if you want to make it big in the tech world in 2024, cybersecurity expertise is an absolute must-have skill.

It's the new black, the new cool, the new thing that everyone's talking about.

In today's world, being a pro at SQL (Structured Query Language) is crucial for businesses in Arizona and beyond. Companies are swimming in tons of data, and SQL is the key to unlocking the treasure trove of insights hidden within.

A recent survey by the Arizona Technology Council revealed that over 75% of tech firms in the state rely on SQL for data analysis and management. It's like SQL is the hot new trend, but one that actually adds value.

The applications of SQL are mind-blowing, spanning industries like healthcare, finance, and e-commerce.

Major players like Banner Health, Western Alliance Bank, and Carvana are utilizing SQL to unravel the mysteries of patient records, financial transactions, and customer behavior.

Even education giants like the University of Arizona are getting in on the action, with SQL workshops for life scientists to help them manage their data like bosses.

But SQL isn't just a one-trick pony; it's a game-changer for decision-making across the board.

As Elizabeth Williams, Chief Data Officer at the University of Arizona, puts it, "SQL empowers businesses to turn raw data into actionable insights. By querying and manipulating data effectively, companies can identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and make data-driven decisions that drive growth and innovation." It's like having a superpower that lets you see into the future and make moves that'll blow your competitors out of the water.

Need proof? Just look at Insight Enterprises, a major IT solutions provider based in Tempe.

By harnessing the power of SQL to analyze customer data, they were able to:

1. Spot emerging trends before anyone else, staying ahead by anticipating changes.
2. Optimize offerings by fine-tuning products and pricing to dominate the market.
3. Enhance retention through targeted marketing campaigns that directly address customer needs.

The result? A whopping 18% increase in revenue and sky-high customer satisfaction levels.

It's like they cracked the code and left their competitors in the dust.

JavaScript is like the boss of web dev in 2024! This programming language is seriously sick when it comes to creating interactive websites and mind-blowing user experiences.

In Arizona, tech companies are going crazy over devs who can sling some serious JavaScript code. It's popular - it's versatile AF and can do everything from making slick animations to building mobile apps.

A 2024 study showed that over 75% of Arizona tech firms prioritize JavaScript skills when hiring frontend developers.

Big names like GoDaddy, Insight Enterprises, Carvana, and WebPT are all thirsty for JavaScript talent. They know that mastering this language is the key to unlocking next-level web solutions.

One dev at GoDaddy summed it up perfectly:

"JavaScript's versatility and widespread adoption make it an indispensable skill for our frontend engineers. We're actively seeking talent proficient in ReactJS, Angular, and Node.js to drive our cutting-edge web solutions."

With websites and apps becoming more interactive and responsive, companies in Arizona are scrambling to find devs who can harness the true potential of JavaScript.

If you're looking to score a sweet tech gig in this state, mastering JavaScript should be at the top of your priority list.

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) is taking the tech world by storm, and Arizona is right in the thick of it.

These cutting-edge technologies are revolutionizing industries left and right, and companies are scrambling to get their hands on the brightest AI/ML talents.

According to the buzz at top mobile app dev firms in Arizona, the demand for AI/ML skills is skyrocketing like crazy.

We're talking a mind-blowing 35% year-over-year jump in job postings for these specialties, according to the Arizona Technology Council.

The AI/ML revolution is hitting some major Arizona industries hard:

• Healthcare: AI-powered diagnostics and personalized treatment plans are becoming the new normal at giants like Banner Health and HonorHealth.
• Aerospace/Defense: Powerhouses such as Raytheon and Honeywell are tapping into AI for predictive maintenance, autonomous systems, and data analysis like never before.
• Fintech: AI algorithms are the secret sauce behind fraud detection, risk assessment, and tailored investment strategies at financial juggernauts like Vantage West Credit Union.

To keep up with this insane demand, Arizona is stepping up its AI/ML game big time.

Arizona State University's Master's in Machine Learning is arming professionals with the latest skills to stay ahead of the curve.

The University of Arizona's Arizona Artificial Intelligence Institute is pushing the boundaries of AI research and workforce development.

And coding bootcamps like Nucamp are offering intensive, job-ready training in AI/ML to help you hit the ground running.

"The future is all about mastering AI and machine learning. In Arizona, we're determined to lead this game-changing revolution." - Sandra Watson, President & CEO, Arizona Commerce Authority

DevOps, the perfect blend of "development" and "operations," is the hottest trend taking over the tech world in 2024. It's like a superhero, streamlining processes and boosting efficiency for software companies.

Arizona's tech scene is going wild for DevOps, and it's easy to see why. Faster product delivery, smoother collabs, and top-notch quality assurance? Sign me up! DevOps as a service is even a thing now, making it easier than ever to get in on the action.

Take GoDaddy, the web hosting giant from Tempe.

After embracing DevOps, they went from deploying once every 18 months to multiple times per day! Talk about a game-changer.

And Insight Enterprises, another Tempe-based IT solutions provider, saw a whopping 30% boost in operational efficiency thanks to their DevOps transformation.

It's like they've unlocked a cheat code for success.

DevOps is all about continuous integration, continuous deployment (CI/CD), automated testing, seamless monitoring, and getting dev and ops teams to work together like a well-oiled machine.

A 2023 survey by the DevOps Institute revealed that companies rockin' DevOps see:

• Faster time-to-market: 27% quicker project launches.
• Higher project success rates: 19% more projects hitting their goals.
• Lower development costs: 23% cost savings in development processes.

It's like having a superpower for software development.

As Gene Kim, the godfather of DevOps, said,

"DevOps is a crucial enabler for organizations to survive and thrive in an era of digital disruption."

And in today's fast-paced tech world, you either adapt or get left behind.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is making some serious waves in Arizona, making the state a proper hotspot for cutting-edge IoT solutions. An epic IoT conference is happening in September, hosted by the Arizona Technology Council.

They're predicting the IoT market in Arizona is gonna skyrocket, with a mind-blowing 17% growth rate per year until 2030, according to IoT Analytics.

Industries like manufacturing are going all-in on IoT tech for streamlining operations and boosting efficiency.

Major players like Intel and other semiconductor giants are leading the charge.

But it's not just factories - healthcare is also hopping on the IoT bandwagon. Telemedicine and remote patient monitoring are just the tip of the iceberg, allowing for personalized care and cost savings.

The impact of IoT on businesses in Arizona is nothing to sneeze at.

Companies that have embraced IoT are seeing some serious perks, like a 25% boost in operational efficiency, 18% lower production costs, and a whopping 35% spike in customer satisfaction, according to the Arizona Commerce Authority.

It's a win-win for companies and consumers alike.

Arizona's thriving tech scene, top-notch universities like ASU pioneering IoT research, and a boatload of innovative companies diving into IoT shows the state is primed to be a major player in this game-changing tech.

The future's looking bright for IoT in the Grand Canyon State!

The mobile app scene in Arizona be poppin' lately! Check this out, a report from Net-Craft Inc. says some fresh trends are taking over, like enhanced user personalization using AI and machine learning to give you a customized experience.

Brands are also leveling up their customer service game with AI chatbots. Oh, and get ready for way more augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) apps blessing your screen!

To make it in the mobile app world, you gotta be a coding pro and know your Swift for iOS or Kotlin/Java for Android.

But it's not just about coding skills - top Arizona agencies say you need that creative flair too, like UI/UX design chops and thinking outside the box.

The job prospects here are looking stellar according to the Bureau of Labor Stats - mobile app dev roles are expected to grow by 22% from 2022 to 2026, fire!

Every industry is jumping on the app train:

• E-commerce brands seek *slick shopping experiences* to captivate consumers.
• Healthcare enhances patient care with *monitoring and telehealth* applications.
• Finance companies are *mobiling up* their banking and investing services.
• The gaming world is increasingly centering around *mobile platforms*.

To get in on the action, you can level up at places like ASU and UA with their mobile app dev programs.

Just be ready to hustle and stay ahead of the trends, cuz this mobile app game never stops evolving!

Arizona is quickly becoming the place to be for all things blockchain! By 2024, this revolutionary tech has taken over the state, with companies left and right exploring innovative use cases that are shaking up industries.

Blockchain's ability to securely record and verify transactions is a total game-changer, and everyone's jumping on board.

Financial giants like JPMorgan Chase have set up shop in Phoenix with their very own blockchain innovation center, while fintech darlings like Scottsdale's Gem are providing enterprise blockchain solutions.

But it's not just about finance - healthcare companies like Equadex and SimplyVital Health are using blockchain to revolutionize medical records, data sharing, and patient privacy.

Even supply chain and logistics companies like Scottsdale's SYME are leveraging blockchain to track shipments, verify product authenticity, and boost transparency.

With blockchain taking over, the demand for skilled pros in this field is skyrocketing.

According to a Grand Canyon University study, Arizona ranks among the top five states for blockchain job growth, with a projected 42% increase by 2026. Universities like UA and ASU are stepping up their game with specialized blockchain programs and certifications to meet this demand.

As Dr. Katina Michael from ASU's Cybersecurity program notes,

"Blockchain skills will be essential in the near future, enabling businesses to streamline operations, enhance transparency, and gain a competitive edge."

With its forward-thinking business ecosystem and top-notch educational initiatives, Arizona is cementing its status as a blockchain innovation powerhouse.

By fostering blockchain expertise, the state is empowering a new generation of tech talent to drive game-changing solutions across diverse sectors, solidifying its reputation as a hotbed for cutting-edge technologies.

Tech skills are a total game-changer in today's world, and Arizona's scene is buzzin' with opportunities for those who know what's up. The skills that'll make employers go gaga in 2024 include Python Programming, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Data Analysis, Frontend Dev with JavaScript and React, AI/ML, DevOps, IoT, Mobile App Dev, and Blockchain know-how.

We did our research to curate this list, diggin' into job postings, industry reports, and the scoop straight from top tech companies.

A study by the Arizona Tech Council found that 87% of companies are thirsty for cloud computing talent, and 76% are desperately seekin' cybersecurity pros.

Plus, a survey from the AZ Commerce Authority revealed 92% of businesses are on the hunt for data analysis and machine learning wizards. With stats like that, mastering these skills is a surefire way to level up your career game.

The only skill that'll matter in the 21st century is the ability to keep upgrading your skillset.

Whether through a coding bootcamp, online courses, or hands-on projects, committing to continuous learning is absolute key to stayin' ahead of the curve and unlocking fresh career opportunities in Arizona's thriving tech scene.