Many people believe that changing careers is something you need to do early in life. But today, more and more adults are returning to education, often to pursue careers in digital fields where the demand for skilled professionals is high.
In the past, it was common to choose one career and remain in the same industry throughout your working life. Today, things are different.
Technology is evolving rapidly, and many professions are changing or disappearing. At the same time, digital transformation is creating entirely new jobs and increasing the demand for new skills.
According to Eurostat, more than 10 million people in Europe work as IT specialists. The EU has also set a target of increasing this number to around 20 million by 2030 as part of Europe's Digital Decade initiative.
Digital skills are becoming increasingly important
Digital skills are no longer relevant only to technology companies. They are in demand across almost every industry.
The EU highlights that around 90 percent of all jobs will require basic digital skills in the years ahead.
As part of its Digital Decade strategy, the EU has set a goal for at least 80 percent of adults in Europe to have basic digital skills by 2030.
This is one of the key reasons why more adults are choosing to return to education – particularly in technology and digital subjects.
Experience can be an advantage
Starting over later in life can actually be an advantage.
Many adult learners already have years of professional experience. When entering a new industry, they often bring valuable skills with them.
Some of the skills they may already have include:
- Communication: experience in collaboration, customer relations and teamwork
- Problem-solving: the ability to handle challenges and find practical solutions
- Organisation and responsibility: experience managing projects, deadlines and deliverables
- Business understanding: insight into how organisations operate
When combined with new digital skills, this experience can make adult learners attractive candidates in a job market where many employers need people who understand both technology and people.
A changing world of work
The technology sector is one of the fastest-growing areas of the job market.
For example, the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) highlights a significant shortage of cybersecurity expertise in Europe, with many organisations struggling to find qualified candidates.
The demand for developers, designers and security specialists makes technology an attractive field for those considering a career change.
Working life is also more flexible than it used to be. Online courses, part-time study programmes and digital learning opportunities make it possible to study alongside work or family commitments.
For many, this marks the beginning of an entirely new career path.
And perhaps most importantly, it is never too late to learn something new.
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