IT Sector Layoffs in 2024
In 2024, India’s IT sector had severe employment layoffs, with over 35,000 employees thrown off from startups and established organizations.
Major tech corporations worldwide undertook significant layoffs that affected the Indian story also :
- Intel: Announced plans to reduce its global workforce by 15%, resulting in 15,000 job cuts.
- Cisco: Conducted two rounds of layoffs, affecting approximately 10,000 employees worldwide.
- Microsoft: Reduced its workforce by over 2,500 employees, primarily within its gaming division.
- Dell Technologies: Laid off around 6,000 employees amid challenging market conditions.
These layoffs were primarily due to cost-cutting efforts, firm restructurings, and the need to adjust to changing market conditions.
These job cuts have had an impact on numerous sectors of the Indian industry, raising concerns about employment prospects and the need for workforce upskilling for future careers and lifelong learning strategies for adapting to the changing landscape.
Evolution of Management and Tech-Related Jobs
Here’s a table summarizing the evolution of management and tech-related jobs across different decades and a projection into the future:
Era | Key Management-Tech Jobs | Technological Drivers | Future Outlook |
1980–1990 | – Information Systems Manager- Mainframe Operator- Systems Analyst- Telecom Manager- Software Development Manager | – Personal computers- Early databases- Mainframe computing- Automation tools | Jobs focused on IT integration and early adoption of computing in businesses. |
1990–2000 | – Network Administrator- ERP Manager- E-Commerce Specialist- Database Administrator- Quality Assurance Manager | – Internet growth- Networking (LAN/WAN)- Early e-commerce- ERP systems | Management roles expanded to include internet-based services and ERP systems. |
2000–2010 | – IT Project Manager- Cloud Engineer- Data Center Manager- Digital Marketing Manager- Software Product Manager | – Cloud computing- Early social media- Smartphones- Big Data (emerging) | Roles began focusing on scalability, digital presence, and cloud-based solutions. |
2010–2020 | – Digital Transformation Manager- Data Scientist- AI/ML Engineer- Cybersecurity Analyst- DevOps Engineer | – AI and ML- Big Data analytics- IoT- Advanced mobile apps- Social media growth | Greater emphasis on analytics, AI-driven roles, and digital transformation. |
2020–2024 | – AI Product Manager- Edge Computing Engineer- Blockchain Developer- Cloud Solutions Architect- CX Manager | – Edge and cloud computing- Blockchain- Automation (RPA)- Metaverse and AR/VR | Specialized roles targeting edge computing, blockchain, and immersive technologies. |
Future (2025–2030) | – Quantum Computing Specialist- Sustainability Tech Manager- AI Ethics Officer- Metaverse Architect- Autonomous Systems Manager | – Quantum computing- Sustainability tech- Advanced AI and robotics- Web 3.0- Autonomous systems | Anticipated focus on sustainability, ethical AI practices, quantum computing, and deeper integration of AI/automation. |
This timeline captures the gradual shift from foundational IT and computing roles to highly specialized jobs driven by advancements in AI, cloud, data, and emerging technologies. The future holds opportunities in fields such as sustainability tech and quantum computing, emphasizing the ethical and sustainable application of technology.
Evolution of In-Demand Skills for Tech Jobs
Here’s a table summarizing the evolution of skills in demand for management-tech jobs across different decades and projecting future trends:
Time Period | Key Skills in Demand | Example Roles |
1980–1990 | – Basic programming (COBOL, FORTRAN)- Mainframe operations- Early database management- Systems analysis- Network setup | – Mainframe Operator- Systems Analyst- IT Manager- Software Engineer |
1990–2000 | – Client-server architecture- Advanced database management- Early web development- ERP systems (SAP, Oracle)- Network security | – Web Developer- ERP Consultant- Network Administrator- Database Administrator |
2000–2010 | – E-commerce platforms- Mobile app development- Cloud computing basics- Digital marketing (SEO/SEM)- Agile methodologies | – Digital Marketing Manager- Cloud Engineer- Mobile Developer- Data Analyst |
2010–2020 | – Big data analytics- AI/ML- IoT- Advanced cloud solutions (AWS, Azure)- DevOps- Cybersecurity- UX/UI design | – Data Scientist- DevOps Engineer- Cybersecurity Analyst- IoT Developer- AI Engineer |
2020–2024 | – Blockchain- Advanced AI (NLP, GPT models)- Edge computing- AR/VR- Autonomous systems- Data privacy & compliance | – Blockchain Developer- Privacy Officer- AR/VR Specialist- Autonomous Vehicle Engineer |
Future (2025–2030) | – Quantum computing- Generative AI- Synthetic biology tools- Advanced robotics- Green-tech systems- Ethical AI governance | – Quantum Computing Specialist- AI Ethics Manager- Sustainable Tech Engineer- Bioinformatics Manager |
This progression reflects the increasing demand for technical expertise integrated with management skills, driven by advancements in computing, data, automation, and societal priorities. Future trends emphasize sustainability, ethics, and interdisciplinary approaches.
The Need for Lifelong Learning Strategies
For a person born in 70’s he would be entering his professional journey in 90’s and since then he would have seen 4 major transformations and would have to upgrade himself to stay relevant in contemporary world. Lifelong learning is no longer optional but a necessity for career growth and sustainability.
Ways to Embrace Lifelong Learning Strategies:
- Online Resources: Free and paid courses are available to upgrade skills.
- Structured Certifications: Formal programs provide systematic learning paths.
- Design Thinking Approach: Developing a mindset for continuous improvement helps avoid career stagnation.
Upgrade Your Skills Today!
Upskilling for Future Careers:
- Goal Setting: Foster self-awareness and personal growth by setting learning targets.
- Professional Networking: Connect with like-minded individuals and mentors.
- Industry Trends: Stay updated with evolving technologies and best practices such as AI & Automation.
Start Upskilling Now!
Conclusion:
Often one thinks of upgrading himself when the time has ran out and stagnation or survival challenges come lurking on to us. Then one start looking for shortcuts to get certified and ends up in difficult situation finding an average program rather than the best certification programme suitable for professionals to upskill themselves. Structured certification programmes where training is done in person provide all the ingredients of success, ie knowledge, skills and network with minimum effort. The peer group and mentors offer a streamlined path to career development, providing targeted learning experiences designed to address the unique challenges faced by individual’s. It is seen that tangible and intangible benefits outweighs initial investment done in self-learning which are sometimes undermined.
We need to drive our life and career than being driven by our emotions.