Which certifications are necessary in 2024 to advance in the technology sector? Which tech skills are in demand in 2024? Guess what? You are about to find out! A chief technology officer from the pharmaceutical industry recently spoke with Boni Xaba.
Our guest would rather remain anonymous, but we are about to receive this tea anyhow!
Moving from software development to management
“When I think of software developers, I think of entrepreneurship after work experience, but I see you have 5 years’ experience in it but moved to an IT management role; was that a plan or was it opportunistic?”
Chief Technology Officer:
“During my 5 years in development, I thrived on crafting solutions and collaborating with talented engineers. However, there was one particular project that ignited my passion for guiding teams and influencing IT direction. Witnessing the impact of strategic decisions on the whole company further fueled my interest.
When the IT management opportunity emerged, it felt like a perfect blend of my existing technical skills and a chance to delve deeper into leadership and strategy. My ability to break down complex problems, honed during development, helps me guide my team through technical challenges. Plus, effective communication, which was crucial for collaborating with developers, allows me to clearly articulate our vision to stakeholders.
Honestly, stepping into IT management has been incredibly rewarding. I get to empower my team, contribute to strategic initiatives, and see the tangible impact of our work on the organisation’s success. It’s definitely what I initially planned, and it is the most fulfilling chapter in my IT journey so far.”
From coding daily to management
“Do you miss coding, or should I ask, do you still code in your current role?
Chief Technology Officer:
“While coding was rewarding in my earlier career, my current role as CTO allows me to leverage my technical expertise on a much broader scale, impacting the lives of our customers and clients.
Leading a dedicated team is incredibly fulfilling. Mentoring them and seeing their skills flourish brings a sense of happiness. I also research and implement new technologies to improve our products.
Yes, I sometimes miss the hands-on experience of coding, but the impact I create in this role, the lives we touch, and the constant innovation keep me deeply engaged and motivated.”
Thoughts on industry certifications
“I see you have a lot of certifications; why was this part of development so important to you?”
Chief Technology Officer:
“We are in an ever-evolving landscape, and IT is about the fastest-changing landscape. To demonstrate mastery of a particular field, you can think of a certification as a badge of honour. They tell employers and peers, “I’m not just talking the talk; I’ve walked the walk.” Certifications keep you agile and adaptable, ensuring you possess the latest knowledge and best practices. Certifications also expire, so they push you to continuously learn and stay relevant in the face of constant innovation. In such a dynamic industry, a commitment to continuous learning and skill development is paramount to growth and success.”
“Most of your certifications are industry-related; was this compulsory for your current role at the time?”
Chief Technology Officer:
“Yes, certain certifications that I have knowledge about were required by company policy, and certain certifications were required for me to be promoted to my current position.”
Lets talk about the ethic of AI
“Tell us about the ethics of AI; is it something that every IT professional should be looking at?”
Chief Technology Officer:
“If you are going to be working on AI-related projects, it is by all means something I would suggest as a necessity.
The ‘Ethics of AI Certification’ covered responsible data collection, bias mitigation, and fairness principles. This was invaluable when we started developing our internal AI system, which is now the core of the company.
For example, during development, we faced a challenge regarding data collection for specific demographics. My understanding of potential biases, gained through the certification, helped us identify and address potential issues early on. We implemented stricter data anonymization and conducted thorough fairness assessments, resulting in a system free from bias towards any specific demographic group.”
Beyond knowledge, the certification process challenged my own assumptions about AI ethics and inspired me to advocate for responsible development within the company.
The state of Cyber Security in South Africa
“As a person with 50 Kaspersky certifications, what are your thoughts on cyber security as a profession in SA? Is it something that young people should be looking at?
Chief Technology Officer:
The digital age has brought a new frontier: the landscape of cybersecurity. And in all honesty, cybersecurity as a profession in South Africa isn’t just exciting; it’s crucial.
If we think about it! We live in a hyper-connected world. From banking to healthcare, education to entertainment, everything hinges on secure digital infrastructure. Yet, cyber threats lurk around every corner—data breaches, ransomware attacks, online fraud—and they are constantly evolving and targeting our vulnerabilities. This is where cybersecurity professionals step in.
Is it a field young people should consider? Absolutely! And I will tell you why:
It’s in demand: The need for skilled cybersecurity professionals is exploding globally, and South Africa is no exception. The demand far outstrips the supply, creating plenty of promising career opportunities.
It’s intellectually stimulating. Cybersecurity is a constant puzzle, challenging you to think creatively and stay ahead of the curve.
It’s impactful. Imagine safeguarding millions of users, their data, and their trust. The sense of responsibility and the positive impact you can make.
It’s future-proof: As technology advances, so will the need for cybersecurity expertise. This field offers long-term stability and exciting possibilities for growth and innovation.
But don’t be fooled; it’s not a walk in the park. It requires dedication, technical aptitude, and a passion for problem-solving. But let me assure you, the rewards are worth it.
To our young South Africans: If you’re curious, tech-savvy, and driven to make a difference, cybersecurity might be your calling. Embrace the challenge and hone your skills.
What makes a good software developer?
Chief Technology Officer:
“Firstly, it’s about passion. Imagine coding not as a chore but as an exciting puzzle—a chance to turn ideas into reality. Great developers love the challenge of figuring things out, pushing boundaries, and seeing their creations come to life.
Next would be the curiosity aspect. The tech world is constantly evolving, with new languages, tools, and trends emerging all the time. Great developers are insatiable learners, always exploring, experimenting, and staying ahead of the curve. The best developers are never done learning!
But it’s not just about the technical skills. Great developers are also problem-solvers. They can break down complex tasks, think creatively, and find solutions. They’re also team players, collaborating with others to build incredible things.
Finally, I would say, there’s resilience. Let’s face it, coding has its share of bugs. But great developers aren’t easily discouraged. They see setbacks as opportunities to learn, bounce back with determination, and keep striving for excellence.”
How do you get your first software development job in 2024?
Chief Technology Officer:
“First things first: build a rock-solid foundation. Master those programming languages like Python or PHP, delve into data structures and algorithms, and remember, practice makes perfect! Don’t just passively learn; participate in coding challenges, build apps, and show off your skills with personal projects. Think outside the box—explore different areas like web or mobile development to keep things exciting.
Have a portfolio. Your projects are your story, so don’t just wait for assignments. Create diverse projects that showcase your problem-solving skills and creativity. Bonus points for documenting your process.
Now, the fun part: networking! Join meetups, even online communities—these are your gateways to the developer world. Find experienced mentors, contribute to open-source projects, and build connections. Remember, your network is your net worth!
And remember, coding isn’t just about lines of code. Sharpen your communication skills, learn to break down challenges, and remember, the learning never stops. The tech world is fast-paced, so be ready to adapt and keep learning.
Finally, preparation is key! Start early, tailor your resume for each job, and practice those interview skills—think of them as your chance to shine. Universities are treasure troves of resources, so tap into professors, career advisors, and career fairs—they’re your secret weapons. So, future software developers, get out there, network, build, and showcase your talent.
How do you land your first cyber security job?
Chief Technology Officer:
“Sharpen your technical arsenal:
Master the fundamentals: Network security, cryptography, incident response—these are the cornerstones of your cyber shield. Dive deep into online courses, boot camps, or certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Certified Ethical Hacker to build a strong foundation.
Choose your weapon. Do you see yourself guarding the castle walls (network security), patching vulnerabilities (vulnerability assessment), or hunting down hidden threats (incident response)? Explore different specialisations and hone skills specific to your chosen path.
Practice makes perfect. Don’t just learn; apply! Participate in online cybersecurity challenges, contribute to open-source security projects, or set up a home lab to gain hands-on experience.
Think like a hacker. Understand attacker methodologies and motivations. This crucial perspective helps you anticipate and counter their strategies.
Stay curious and vigilant. The cyber landscape is ever-evolving. Cultivate a growth mindset, constantly learn new technologies, and stay updated on emerging threats.
Launch your job hunt:
Network, network, network: Connect with cybersecurity professionals at conferences, online communities, or even through social media. Build relationships and learn from their experiences.
Showcase your skills. Don’t just list skills on your resume; demonstrate them! Include relevant projects, certifications, and achievements that showcase your expertise.
Practice your interview skills. Research common cybersecurity interview questions and practice your responses. Be confident, and showcase your passion for the field.
Remember, landing your first job takes time and dedication.”
Is contracting a beneficial career choice for software developers?
Chief Technology Officer:
“It comes down to a few factors: contract work is not for everyone.
Think of it as an epic internship buffet, sampling different companies and industries without commitment.
That being said, if you don’t have the financial security of a full-time job (while full-time jobs are not a guarantee these days with layoffs), its tougher for contractors. Contract flexibility vs. steady income; high potential earnings vs. financial security. Hone your negotiation skills to bag the best contracts, turn each project into a networking opportunity, and never stop learning—new skills keep you relevant and in demand. Remember, planning for the future is key—build your financial safety net to weather potential income gaps.
Tech Industry Advice
Chief Technology Officer:
“I want to stress the importance of always learning. Our field moves quickly, so it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and tools. Make use of online courses, workshops, and networking opportunities to keep expanding your knowledge.
Remember to build a strong foundation by mastering the basics. Understand the core concepts of computer science, programming languages, and networking. These basics will serve as your toolkit throughout your career.
Develop your problem-solving skills. IT is all about finding solutions to complex issues, so practice thinking critically and creatively. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek help when needed.
Communication is key in our field. Make sure you can explain technical concepts in simple terms and collaborate effectively with others. Good communication skills will set you apart in your career.
Security is incredibly important in IT. Always prioritise security best practices to protect sensitive data and systems from cyber threats.
Build relationships with your peers and mentors. Networking is invaluable for your career growth. Seek advice and support from those who have more experience than you.
Don’t be discouraged by failure. Learn from them and use them as opportunities to improve.
And finally, remember to take care of yourself. Far too often, we see IT personnel burn out. I myself have experienced burnout a few times, so balancing your studies, work, and personal life is important for your overall well-being.”
Ends
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