Today's professional landscape is full of jobs that didn't exist ten or twenty years ago. Given the rapid increase in technological progress, the future of work promises to be radically different.
Working with Professor Carl Frey, economist and Associate Professor of Artificial Intelligence and Work at the University of Oxford, the BBC Bitesize Parents' Toolkit examined the possible careers that could exist by 2040.
It was also analyzed which skills and disciplines are now required to achieve this jobs.
Renewable energy scientist
The world is increasingly turning to new energy sources. Estimates suggest that we could produce enough energy from wind and solar energy by 2050. However, achieving this goal requires scientists behind the scenes to develop and help build the technology.
For Professor Frey, massive investments in the energy transition will be necessary, not only to replace current sources, but also to meet future energy needs related to artificial intelligence, the metaverse and new technologies. In addition to academic work, he highlights employment opportunities in the construction industry, for example as solar panel installers.
Virtual reality developer
In the future, the work experience could involve accessing the Metaverse, a virtual reality populated by 3D avatars, using virtual reality glasses. Instead of offices or video calls, meetings and interactions take place in this virtual environment, requiring developers to create the necessary code.
While AI will help with basic programming, Professor Frey emphasizes the importance of human creativity in programming. Subjects such as information and communications technology (ICT), mathematics and science are essential for anyone who wants to become a virtual reality developer.
Ethics in artificial intelligence
The development of artificial intelligence raises ethical concerns, prompting companies such as Google and Microsoft to hire artificial intelligence ethicists. These professionals conduct research to minimize the risk of unethical or inappropriate use of this everevolving technology. The demand for ethics experts is increasing, making this an important profession.
For those interested in ethics in AI, subjects such as philosophy, ICT and economics from school are recommended.
Augmented reality artist
While many artists still associate using brushes, some, such as game designers and art directors, use computer code in their work. Today, technological advances allow reality to be expanded and add digital elements to the real world. It is predicted that digital glasses will allow you to view artistic creations that are digitally projected onto buildings and streets.
Ideal subjects for aspiring augmented reality artists include art, ICT and graphic design.
Yoga teacher
Despite technological innovations, Professor Frey emphasizes the importance of professions that focus on human interaction, such as yoga teachers. He emphasizes that personal connection remains crucial in facetoface teaching and highlights the value of trust in relationships to motivate people.
Subjects such as physical education (PE) are relevant for those seeking a career as a yoga teacher.
Gut Health Chef
Another job that will endure in 2040 is the chef, but with a different approach. Awareness of gut health is growing and chefs will be able to create dishes that reflect this perspective. To understand how gut health works, knowledge of food technology and science is critical.
Despite technological changes, Professor Frey emphasizes continuity in learning traditional subjects and emphasizes the importance of not overly adapting education to each new technological trend.
ECB