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- Harris, Tech Jobs, and Engineering's Future
Harris, Tech Jobs, and Engineering's Future
๐ฐ In this issue
๐น Industry Pulse: Kamala Harris and the Tech Industry
๐น Skill Spotlight: Gen AI: Transformation of Software Engineering
๐น Career Moves: Tech Jobs Boom: Your Guide to Thriving in the AI Era
๐น Tech Corner: Keep Your Career from Going Extinct
๐น Work-Life Integration: Palermo: A Digital Nomad's Paradise
๐ Insider
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๐ฐ Industry Pulse
Kamala Harris and the Tech Industry ๐บ๐ธ๐ป
As the 2024 US Presidential election looms on the horizon, the world is waiting with bated breath to see who will emerge victorious. Will it be the Democrats, led by Kamala Harris, or will former President Donald Trump reclaim his seat in the Oval Office? ๐ค
Now, before I jump into this, let me make one thing clear: we're not here to advocate for one candidate over another. ๐ โโ๏ธ However, we do think that a Harris White House could be a positive development for the tech industry. ๐
Harris's Tech-Friendly Track Record ๐
As California Attorney General from 2011 to 2017, Harris enacted a series of measures aimed at combating tech-related crime. ๐ต๏ธโโ๏ธ She established an eCrime Unit to tackle identity theft and data breaches, secured agreements with tech giants to improve app user privacy, and even convened meetings to address the issue of "revenge porn." ๐
What's more, Harris has received endorsements from some of the biggest names in tech, including Microsoft President Brad Smith, Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff, and LinkedIn Co-Founder Reid Hoffman. ๐ Clearly, these industry leaders believe a Harris presidency would be favorable to their businesses.
The AI Czar ๐ค๐
As Vice President under the Biden administration, Harris has been appointed the "AI czar," overseeing efforts to regulate the often-lawless world of artificial intelligence. ๐ She was instrumental in introducing landmark legislation in 2023 to ensure the "safe, secure, and trustworthy development and use of AI." ๐ก๏ธ
While Harris has been a cautionary voice in the AI debate, she's also quick to acknowledge the technology's potential for "profound good." ๐ At a recent fundraiser, she pledged to "invest in America's future" by encouraging innovative technologies like AI while protecting consumers and investors. ๐ธ
A Softer Touch on Regs? ๐ค
Reports suggest that Harris may soften the federal government's approach to regulating the tech sector, particularly when it comes to antitrust issues. ๐๏ธ With several high-profile industry backers and a track record of fighting bad practices while not stifling innovation, a Harris presidency could strike a balance that many in the tech world would welcome. โ๏ธ
Of course, not everyone will be thrilled by the prospect of a Harris White House. ๐ฌ But one thing's for sure: the next few months will be a fascinating time for the tech industry and the nation as a whole. ๐ฟ
So, there you have it! While we're not picking sides, (read between the lines) it's clear that a Kamala Harris presidency could have some interesting implications for the tech sector. ๐ค What do you think?
๐ Related Resources
๐ซ Skill Spotlight
Gen AI: Transformation of Software Engineering ๐๐ป
I just got done checking out a Gartner report on the impact of genAI on software engineering, and it's mind-blowing! ๐คฏ According to the report, genAI is set to upend the industry, creating new roles and requiring a unprecedented 80% of the workforce needing to upskill by 2027. ๐ฎ
The Rise of the AI Engineer ๐ฆธโโ๏ธ๐ฆธโโ๏ธ
One thing became crystal clear: there will be an emergence of the AI engineer! ๐ฆธโโ๏ธ๐ฆธโโ๏ธ These highly skilled professionals will possess a unique combination of software engineering, data science, and AI/machine learning expertise. If you can master these three youโre in for high dig job security. ๐ช
Upskilling is Key ๐
The Gartner report emphasizes that to keep up with the AI revolution, software engineers will need to level up their skills. ๐ Retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) techniques will be essential for enhancing the accuracy and reliability of generative AI models. It's like giving your AI superpowers! โก
AI-Native Software Engineering: The Future is Here ๐ฎ
As I continued reading, I discovered that in the medium term, AI agents will push boundaries and transform developer work patterns. ๐ค Most code will be AI-generated rather than human-authored, ushering in the era of AI-native software engineering. Right now we know this isnโt the case but the report sees it as reality going forward. ๐
The AI-First Mindset ๐ง
The report also highlights that software engineers will need to adopt an "AI-first" mindset, focusing on steering AI agents toward the most relevant context and constraints for a given task. ๐ฏ Natural-language prompt engineering and RAG skills will be the name of the game. ๐ฃ๏ธ
Investing in AI Developer Platforms ๐ฐ
Another key takeaway from the Gartner report is that to support the rise of AI engineers, organizations will need to invest in AI developer platforms. ๐ธ These platforms will help build AI capabilities more efficiently and integrate AI into enterprise solutions at scale. It's like giving your team a turbo boost! ๐
Upskilling Data and Platform Engineering Teams ๐
Lastly, the report emphasizes that data engineering and platform engineering teams will also need to level up their skills. ๐ป Adopting tools and processes that drive continuous integration and development for AI artifacts will be crucial. It's all about staying ahead of the curve! ๐
After reviewing this eye-opening Gartner report, it's clear that generative AI is set to transform the future of software engineering, creating exciting new roles and opportunities. You can buy off on this or think itโs B.S. but, better to have the info in hand now than after the fact.๐
๐ Related Resources
๐ Career Moves
Tech Jobs Boom: Your Guide to Thriving in the AI Era ๐๐ผ
๐ Have you heard the latest news? The tech unemployment rate just took a nosedive from 3.4% to 2.5% in September โ the biggest dip in four years! ๐ Employers are back on the hunt for top tech talent, and the opportunities are sizzling. ๐ฅ
The Numbers Don't Lie ๐
According to CompTIA's analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the broader economy gained 18,000 new tech positions, while the tech industry itself added 8,583 net jobs. ๐ The hottest areas? Cloud infrastructure, data processing, hosting, tech services, and custom software development. โ๏ธ๐ป
Back to skills: you don't necessarily need a four-year degree to snag one of these coveted positions. ๐ Almost half - 46% of September's job postings didn't specify the need for a bachelor's. ๐ฒ It's all about the skills, can you get the job done? ๐ช
Skilling Up for Success ๐ช
So, how can you capitalize on this tech job bonanza? ๐ฐ The key is to specialize in the "hot" skill sets that employers are clamoring for โ and right now, that means AI. ๐ฅ By upskilling in areas like machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision, you'll make yourself an irresistible candidate in a crowded market. ๐
Don't have a four-year degree? No problem! ๐ Focus on building a strong portfolio of projects that showcase your AI chops, and be sure to highlight any relevant certs or online courses you've completed. ๐ In the era of skills-based hiring, your practical experience and expertise can be just as valuable as a fancy piece of paper. ๐
Riding the Wave ๐
The tech industry is always evolving, and the AI revolution is just the latest wave to catch. ๐โโ๏ธ By staying agile, adaptable, and committed to continuous learning, you can ride this wave to career success and job satisfaction. ๐
Weโll be introducing your new best friend OPPY, your career advocate, to help you along this journey, stay tuned and get ready to seize the opportunities that await in the tech job market! ๐ผ The future is yours for the taking. ๐
๐ Related Resources
๐ป Tech Corner
Keep Your Career from Going Extinct ๐ฆ๐ป
In this 21st-century whirlwind of technological advancement, it's not just about staying up to date on industry trends โ it's about arming yourself with the skills to thrive in the jobs of tomorrow. ๐ช In this edition of Tech Corner, we're going to move AI and Cybersecurity down the list! ๐โโ๏ธ๐จ
Quantum Computing: Unlocking the Power of the Subatomic ๐
Quantum computing is set to revolutionize industries from healthcare to cybersecurity, and understanding the basics is your ticket to a secure future in STEM. ๐๏ธ Brush up on classical computing, programming, math, and quantum mechanics, and you'll be ready to tackle the quantum careers of tomorrow! ๐ป๐
Climate and Sustainability ๐๐
Hype or reality on climate. Believe what you will but the reality is businesses are scrambling to meet global sustainability targets, so the demand for climate-savvy STEM professionals is skyrocketing. ๐ From green engineering to the intersection of tech and sustainability, upskilling in this area is not just a smart career move โ it's a way to make a real difference for the planet. ๐๐ฟ
Robotics: Building the Machines of the Future ๐ค๐ง
Gone are the days of clunky, rustic robots with limited capabilities. The robots of tomorrow will tackle tasks too challenging, mundane, or dangerous for humans, and they'll need STEM pros to bring them to life! ๐ฆพ Sharpen your skills in advanced math, programming, and mechanical engineering, and get ready to shape the future of robotics. ๐
AI and Machine Learning: Embrace the Change, Don't Fear It ๐ง ๐ป
This gets old saying this, ergo the move down the latter. AI and machine learning can make you indispensable in the face of automation. ๐ฆธโโ๏ธ Stay ahead of the curve by continuously updating your AI abilities, and you'll be laughing in the face of job uncertainty. ๐
Defending the Digital Frontier ๐ก๏ธ๐
As things become more complex, so do the threats to our digital world. That's where you step up, future cyber expert! ๐ต๏ธโโ๏ธ By upskilling in emerging cybersecurity threats, quantum cryptography, and innovative cyber protocols, you'll be securing not just your career, but the entire digital landscape. ๐
Embrace the Future, One Skill at a Time ๐
The world of STEM is evolving at a breakneck pace, but this kind of boils it down to five key areas. There are a ton more areas of stem expertise, but focusing on one of these five generalities you'll be setting yourself up for a future-proofed career filled with opportunity and excitement. ๐
๐ Related Resources
๐ง Work-Life Integration
Palermo: A Digital Nomad's Paradise ๐ด๐ป๐ด
I'm on a month-long Italian adventure, starting the journey in Sicily and heading to Lake Como, which is almost at the Swiss border to the north. Right now I come to you from the stunning Mondello Beach in Palermo, where I'm currently soaking up the sun โ๏ธ and enjoying the fantastic October weather. and let me tell you, Palermo is an absolute gem ๐ for remote workers.
The Perfect Blend of Work and Play ๐
Palermo offers the ideal mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. The WiFi is good, not fabulous, but workable ๐ถ, making it easy to stay connected and productive. Plus, with the summer tourists gone, you'll have plenty of space to explore and find your favorite coworking spots ๐ผ.
The Food - OMG! ๐
One of the best parts about being a digital nomad in Palermo? The food, of course! ๐ The street markets are a must-visit, with delicacies like arancine (stuffed rice balls) and sfincione (Sicilian pizza) that'll make your taste buds dance ๐. Iโve been here a week and donโt want to get near a scale.
History and Culture ๐๏ธ
Want to see what life was like pre internet? Palermo's historic center is the perfect place to check out. From the impressive Teatro Massimo ๐ญ to the Norman-era Palermo Cathedral โช, there's no shortage of architectural wonders to admire. And if you're a nature lover, the nearby Capo Gallo Nature Reserve ๐ฟ and Monte Pellegrino ๐๏ธ offer stunning views and trails to explore.
Work Hard, Play Hard ๐
After a productive day, Palermo's vibrant nightlife ๐ is the perfect way to unwind. The Vucciria and Kalsa neighborhoods are the hot spots ๐ถ, live performances, and festive atmospheres. It's a great opportunity to meet fellow digital nomads and locals alike!
Beyond the City Limits ๐
If you're itching for a weekend getaway, Palermo's surrounding areas have plenty to offer. The town of Monreale ๐, with its breathtaking Byzantine mosaics, and the ancient Greek ruins of Segesta ๐๏ธ are just a short trip away. Cefalรบ has a pretty nice beach vibe too.
The Palermo Digital Nomad Community ๐ฅ
Palermo's growing coworking scene and networking events make it easy to connect with like-minded individuals. Whether you're looking for collaboration opportunities or just want to make new friends, you'll find a welcoming community here.
Pack your bags ๐, grab your laptop ๐ป, and head to Palermo for an unforgettable digital nomad experience! This place is the bomb! ๐
๐ฎ๐น Caio for now ๐ฎ๐น
๐ Related Resources
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