Fastest-Growing STEM Tech Jobs in 2024 and Beyond

Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are major factors in the maintenance and development of healthcare, the environment, infrastructure, education, the economy, space exploration, national security, agriculture, the tech industry, and innovation. As a result, advancements in STEM not only shape our world and drive progress but also offer lucrative opportunities for individuals with skills in these areas. Almost 10 million workers in STEM occupations were employed in 2021. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts this total will grow nearly 11% by 2031, which is four times faster than all other occupations. In this blog, you’ll learn about some of the fastest-growing STEM tech jobs in 2024 and beyond, what makes them stand out, and how to gain the skills you need to enter these fields.

Information Security Analyst

In today's technology landscape, information security analysts are the guardians of the digital realm. The job involves designing, implementing, and maintaining security measures to protect networks and systems from cyberattacks, as well as staying ahead of the latest threats. Key skills information security analysts need to know include:

• Cybersecurity fundamentals

• Network security

• Programming/scripting

• Risk assessment

• Cloud security

• Teamwork and problem-solving

• Incident response

• Security architecture

Currently, there is a shortage of cybersecurity professionals. Cyberseek.org estimates there are more than 600,000 unfilled cybersecurity positions across the nation. By 2025, Gartner predicts that over half of significant cybersecurity incidents will be caused by this shortage. According to BLS data, information security analysts are in high demand, with a projected job growth of 32% from 2022 to 2032. This growth is due to the increasing reliance on technology in all aspects of our lives, as well as the increasing sophistication of cyberattacks and the talent shortage. Many businesses and organizations are offering lucrative salaries for cybersecurity professionals to attract talent. Glassdoor reports that entry-level information security analysts can make an average salary of $73,629, depending on their skills. In 2024, cybersecurity is a great field to join as salaries are high, remote work is available, and demand and employment opportunities will increase for professionals.

Data Scientist

Data Scientists are modern-day alchemists, transforming data into valuable resources. By gathering, cleaning, analyzing, and interpreting data, they assist businesses in making informed decisions, improving their products, and discovering new business opportunities. For a few examples, Netflix uses data to recommend movies and TV shows to users. Amazon uses data to recommend products to its users. Businesses can benefit greatly from the contributions of data scientists. The Mckinsey Global Institute reports data-driven organizations are 23 times more likely to acquire customers, 6 times more likely to retain them, and 19 times more likely to be profitable.

There are many reasons why data science is a compelling field to enter. Data science:

• Is a rapidly growing field with a high demand for professionals;

• Has promising job security;

• Has opportunities for a lucrative salary;

• Can allow you to make a real impact on businesses and lives;

• Is ever-evolving and advancing;

• Utilizes creativity and problem-solving skills;

• Offers the ability to work with cutting-edge technology in some sectors;

The BLS reports that the median annual salary for data scientists was $106,298 in May 2022. The BLS also projects that employment of data scientists will grow more than 31% from 2020 to 2030.

DevOps Engineer

A DevOps engineer bridges the gap between development and operations in a business or organization. In this way, they automate how we develop and deploy software, making it easier to build digital products. DevOps engineers also play a critical role in helping businesses to develop and deploy software more quickly and efficiently. Their secret weapon is their knowledge of development and operations tools. To streamline and automate the software development and deployment process, DevOps engineers use tools and technologies such as continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD) tools and infrastructure as code (IaC). Their unique skill set and ability to save time and create efficiencies in processes for a company leads them to be highly valued and in-demand—with a projected job growth of 22.2% from 2022 to 2032 (BLS)

The median annual salary for DevOps engineers was $110,140 in May 2022 (BLS). Besides knowledge of CI/CD, those considering entering the field in 2024 will likely need to possess these essential transferable and technical skills:

• Automation and scripting

• Containerization and orchestration

• Cloud computing

• Monitoring and observability

• Configuration management

• Version Control Systems

Software Engineer

Software engineers are the architects of the digital realm. They design, develop, and rigorously test software applications using a variety of programming languages and tools. Creativity and critical thinking are their allies in solving complex problems. Other skills include:

• Strong coding and programming abilities

• Comfortability with working independently and as part of a team

• Knowledge of software design principles such as object-oriented programming, modularity, and design patterns

• Understanding of relational databases like MySQL, PostgreSQL, and NoSQL

• Familiarity with version control systems like Git

A career in software engineering offers high job demand, potentially excellent pay depending on your skills and location, intellectual challenges, real-world impact, continuous learning opportunities, global opportunities, and the flexibility to work remotely. The BLS projects that employment of software developers will grow 22% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. It's a rewarding career that combines intellectual stimulation, financial stability, and the chance to make a difference.

Artificial Intelligence Engineer

Investing in AI-centric systems is expected to reach $154 billion in 2024, according to the International Data Corporation. AI Engineers are the pioneers of the future helping to create and support these systems. Using machine learning, deep learning, and natural language processing, they design, develop, and implement AI systems. Other technical skills AI engineers use include:

Programming Languages: Proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, C++, and R is crucial for developing and implementing AI models, algorithms, and applications.

Data Analysis and Statistics: Expertise in data analysis techniques, statistical methods, and data visualization tools is crucial for preparing, cleaning, and analyzing large datasets to extract meaningful insights.

Software Engineering Principles: Familiarity with software engineering principles, including design patterns, software architecture, and testing methodologies, is essential for building robust and scalable AI systems.

Cloud Computing: Knowledge of cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and GCP is valuable for deploying and managing AI models and applications in the cloud.

A report by LinkedIn states that job postings for AI engineers have increased by 74% in the past four years, and are expected to continue growing. In contrast to the national median salary of $45,760, the median annual salary for AI engineers is $163,860 (Indeed). After data scientists and software developers, AI engineers are the third most in-demand tech jobs in the world, claims Glassdoor.

Cloud Architect

In the tech industry, cloud architects build and shape the digital sky that connects businesses and individuals. They design and construct cloud-based infrastructure and applications, harnessing platforms like AWS, Azure, and GCP. The key to their success is their deep understanding of both cloud computing and networking. Here are some of the other key responsibilities of cloud computing professionals:

• Designing and architecture of cloud-based systems

• Implementation and configuration of cloud infrastructure and services

• Management and maintenance of cloud-based systems and applications

• Monitoring and troubleshooting of cloud-related issues

• Implementation of security measures and threat prevention

• Automation of cloud-based processes and workflows

• Data collection, storage, processing, and analysis

• Network configuration and troubleshooting

• User account management and access control

• System performance monitoring and optimization

According to Indeed, the average annual salary for a cloud architect is $127,260, and the job market is expected to grow by 22% by 2030 (BLS).

Some of the benefits of being a cloud architect include:

High Demand and Job Security: The demand for cloud architects is expected to continue to grow rapidly, making it a promising career choice with excellent job security.

Competitive Salaries and Compensation: Cloud architects typically earn high salaries and comprehensive compensation packages, reflecting their valuable skills and expertise.

Diverse and Challenging Work: Cloud architects work on a wide range of projects, designing, implementing, and managing complex cloud-based systems. This offers a stimulating and intellectually challenging work environment.

Continuous Learning and Growth: The cloud computing landscape is constantly evolving, requiring cloud architects to stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and trends. This fosters continuous learning and professional growth.

Impactful and Strategic Role: Cloud architects play a crucial role in shaping the digital transformation of organizations, making significant contributions to their success and growth.

Entrepreneurship Potential: Cloud architects with entrepreneurial aspirations can leverage their expertise to start their own consulting businesses or develop innovative cloud-based solutions.

Overall, cloud architecture offers a rewarding and fulfilling career path with high demand, competitive compensation, diverse work opportunities, and the potential to make a significant impact on the digital world.

How to Learn Tech Skills

If you're considering a career in STEM, these fastest-growing tech jobs offer a promising pathway to a dynamic, well-compensated future. Online tech training programs like the accelerated bootcamps offered by Fullstack Academy can teach you the skills employers want in these fields, whether you're drawn to the world of data, security, or cutting-edge technology like AI and machine learning. Fullstack Academy offers full-time and part-time programs with live online instruction from industry experienced professionals. Plus, you’ll gain the career development and job search support necessary to showcase your skills and new-found knowledge to employers.

If you’re ready to embrace the digital age and embark on a journey to shape your future through STEM with Fullstack Academy, apply today!