The technology market in both Canberra and nationally is constantly advancing. With innovations like AI, blockchain, cloud computing, and more, the digital landscape is ever evolving. Staying relevant in this dynamic environment is essential – not only for career growth but to remain relevant in the tech job market. Without keeping pace, you risk becoming obsolete in a world that values agility and cutting-edge skills. This is especially evident in the Canberra tech market, where the majority of work is within the Federal Government – notorious for large complex systems using older technologies, where you can easily be pigeonholed into legacy technologies without even realising it. To ensure this doesn’t occur, we’ve put together some steps and mindsets to stay relevant in the market.

What are the Tech Trends? What is Relevant in the Canberra Market?

With the rapid pace of technological advancement, it can be difficult to keep track of what is relevant in the market. There is also a clear distinction between what it means to stay relevant in technology and what it means to stay relevant to Federal Government technology.

A report done by McKinsey and Company on tech trends, outlines the 15 major trends based on investment and adoption. These trends include innovation such as generative & applied AI, industrialising machine learning, digital trust and cybersecurity and immersive-reality technologies.

Whilst there is always a benefit to setting aside time to upskill in the most cutting-edge technology, particularly if there is an appetite to work in startups or innovative companies, staying relevant in the Canberra market can actually be simpler. The Federal Government’s adoption of innovation can be slower than that of other markets, so staying relevant in the market should align with priorities and technologies that are in use within large programs of work.

As an ICT professional working within the Software and Data domains, depending on your profession, staying updated in various modern(ish) technologies such as modern JavaScript frameworks, recently updated programming languages such as .NET 8 and Java SE 23, Cloud technologies (AWS & Azure), Azure data technologies such as Data factory and data bricks, containerisation technologies such as docker & Kubernetes and AI technologies are all examples where you can stay up to date with Fed Gov technology trends.

Be Prepared for Change and Embrace It

The first step to remaining relevant in tech is adopting the right mindset. The nature of technology is constantly evolving, so being resistant to change can hinder your career growth. Embrace the mindset that learning is a lifelong process. Be comfortable with stepping outside your comfort zone and acquiring new skills, or even changing industries. Adopting a growth mindset will allow you to adapt and thrive in the face of technological advancements, something critical in a fast-evolving market like Canberra’s.

Develop a Training Plan and Set Specific Learning Goals

To stay competitive, continuous education is essential. Crafting a clear training plan with specific goals will help you stay on track. Identify skills that are in demand locally and those that align with your long-term career aspirations. Many companies, including Emanate, have partnered with educational platforms and certifying bodies to offer specialised training that can fast-track you’re learning. Certifications from industry leaders like AWS, Microsoft, and Google are great ways to demonstrate your expertise. By having a targeted learning plan, you’ll make the most of your time and resources, ensuring you’re equipped for the next wave of innovation and technologies relevant to Canberra’s tech industry.

Stay Close to Tech Market Trends and Innovations

Keeping up with market trends is crucial. This means not only following industry news but also engaging with those around you. This includes stay close to recruiters who have their fingers on the pulse of the Canberra job market, particularly those that specialise in the tech vertical you work in such at the Emanate Technology specialist model. Regular discussions with colleagues can also reveal insights into emerging technologies or shifting demands within your field, as well as reading up on trends and networking at relevant events to ensure you remain informed, making it easier to anticipate and adapt to changes.

Don’t Be Afraid to Specialise While Broadening Skills

Specialising in a niche technology can lead to better remuneration and a deeper understanding of a particular field. However, it’s important to stay adaptable. Specialisation can sometimes narrow your career opportunities, especially when the market shifts. It’s essential to be open to acquiring new skills and diversifying your expertise. Having a solid foundation in one area while remaining flexible will give you a competitive edge, allowing you to pivot as required.

Staying relevant in the tech industry requires a proactive approach to learning, adaptability, and awareness of market trends. By embracing change, developing a focused training plan, and maintaining flexibility in your skills, you can position yourself for success in Canberra’s evolving technology landscape. And if you’re interested in having a more detailed conversation about the market, or your tech career specifically, reach out for a chat.