The Future of Work: The Urgency of Digital Skills Training*
The labor market is undergoing an unprecedented transformation, driven by digitalization, artificial intelligence (AI), and automation. The World Economic Forum’s “The Future of Jobs” 2025 report highlights that approximately 39% of workers’ current skills will undergo changes or become obsolete by 2030. This scenario prompts us to reflect on a fundamental challenge: how can we ensure that today’s and tomorrow’s professionals develop the necessary skills to remain competitive in a rapidly changing market?
The answer lies in continuous digital skills training, a decisive factor for employability and the sustainable growth of companies. Based on the World Economic Forum’s report, which recognizes the importance of upskilling in various areas for individual and organizational success, five major trends shaping the job market through 2030 can be identified:
- Acceleration of digitalization and AI: Automation and AI will transform industries, increasing demand for specialists in Big Data, Machine Learning, and Cybersecurity. The report estimates that 86% of companies expect AI and data processing to reshape their businesses in the next five years.
- The green revolution and sustainability: The transition to sustainable economies will create new job opportunities in environmental engineering, renewable energy, and green technologies.
- The knowledge economy and soft skills: Skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership, and collaboration will become increasingly valued.
- Geo-economic fragmentation and the transformation of global work: Political and economic shifts will lead companies to restructure supply chains and operations, creating challenges in talent management.
- Demographic opportunities and challenges: Population aging in some countries and workforce growth in emerging regions will require effective reskilling strategies.
Given these trends, (re)learning digital skills and combining them with other capabilities is no longer optional—it has become essential to stay relevant in the job market. Three key areas stand out:
- Technical skills in emerging technologies: The rise of AI and automation demands proficiency in software development tools, data analysis, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. The report highlights that experts in Big Data, Machine Learning, and Information Security will be among the most in-demand professionals by 2030.
- Reskilling and upskilling for the digital economy: Public and corporate organizations are challenged to invest in reskilling and skills enhancement programs to ensure that employees in traditional roles can transition into new digital positions. The study indicates that 85% of companies plan to prioritize employee training to tackle the challenges of digital transformation.
- Soft skills and the importance of adaptability: Beyond technical skills, creativity, resilience, and critical thinking are equally crucial in a world driven by rapid innovation. The ability to adapt to new tools and methodologies will be a decisive factor in employability.
Technological evolution presents not only challenges but also opportunities for companies and professionals who invest in continuous learning. “The Future of Jobs” 2025 report shows us that those who learn, unlearn, and relearn will always be one step ahead in the job market.
All signs indicate that the future belongs to those who invest in knowledge. Is your company or career ready for this revolution?
*This article was originally published in Empreendedor.
