Why a Career in BI & AI is Your Smartest Move

Are you at a career crossroads, wondering where your skills and ambitions can truly thrive? The world of work is changing at breakneck speed, and if you’re not keeping up, you risk being left behind. But don’t worry – there’s a clear path forward, and it’s paved with data, insights, and innovation: Business Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence.

The Future is Intelligent, and the Numbers Prove It

The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 paints a compelling picture of the future, and it’s one where BI and AI are not just buzzwords but the very foundations of progress. The report highlights a significant trend: the explosive growth of roles directly related to AI and data analysis. Forget the idea of these fields being niche areas; they are becoming the core of nearly every industry.

Here’s why you should seriously consider a career in these fields, backed by concrete numbers:

Skyrocketing Job Growth

The report doesn’t just suggest growth; it quantifies it. Roles like AI and Machine Learning Specialists are not only mentioned as key for business transformation but also show a significant net growth in many economies. For instance, in one unnamed economy, AI and Machine Learning Specialists are projected to have a net growth of 103, while in another there’s a net growth of 128, clearly showing how rapid the expansion of this role is. Data Analysts and Scientists are also experiencing substantial growth, with a net growth of 37 in one economy and 40 in another. Business Intelligence Analysts are also experiencing growth, for instance one economy shows a net growth of 22 and another 30.

Skills in High Demand

It’s not just about having any old skills; it’s about having the right skills. The report states that AI and big data skills are experiencing the most significant growth, with over 90% of employers in the top 10 industries expecting increased usage of these skills. Additionally, analytical thinking is considered a core skill by 7 out of 10 companies, and is projected to remain a top skill, especially as AI continues to expand. Technological literacy is also a critical skill, with 72% of employers expecting an increase in its use. The report also emphasizes the growing need for skills in networks and cybersecurity.

Global Opportunities

The need for BI and AI professionals is not confined to one region; it’s a global phenomenon. For example, in India, the fastest-growing roles include Big Data Specialists, with a net growth of 113, and AI and Machine Learning Specialists. In Nigeria, network and cybersecurity skills are projected to grow rapidly. This demonstrates how the demand spans across different geographical areas.

Reskilling and Upskilling is Key

The report emphasises that continuous learning and development is crucial and notes that there are substantial differences between how employers see the importance of skills and how proficient workers are at using them. Many employers plan to upskill and reskill employees to address the skills gap, with 41% of companies globally planning to upskill and redeploy their staff. This points to an opportunity for you to gain new qualifications while working.

What This Means for You

A career in BI or AI isn’t just about coding or crunching numbers. It’s about:

Solving Complex Problems

You’ll be at the forefront of innovation, helping organisations make smarter decisions using data and insights. You will be working with a powerful combination of skills from analytical thinking to systems thinking, along with technological skills like AI and big data.

Driving Business Transformation

Your skills will be essential for companies as they adopt AI technologies to improve efficiency, innovate products, and enhance customer experiences.

Securing Your Future

With AI adoption on the rise, professionals with these skills are not just needed, but also insulated from potential job displacement. The WEF report highlights that half of executives worldwide highlight a lack of skills as the top barrier to AI adoption, meaning your expertise is highly valued and you’ll be in demand.

Contributing to Human Progress

In many ways, these skills are vital for the transition to a more efficient and sustainable future, making this a career that’s both impactful and future proof. The report notes that environmental stewardship is seen as a core skill by 50% of the respondents, so you may even be able to combine your AI and BI knowledge with your interest in sustainability.

Get Ahead of the Curve

The time to act is now. The Future of Jobs Report clearly indicates that the fields of BI and AI are not just the future; they are the present. The report stresses the necessity for workers to have skills that blend technical expertise with human-centred capabilities. Here’s how you can get started:

Upskill and Reskill

The report shows a clear increase in training by employers. Take advantage of this by learning the basics of data analysis and AI development using the many online resources that are available, like those mentioned in the report with partnerships with Coursera.

Seek Relevant Experience

Consider an internship or entry-level position where you can apply your data skills and learn from experts.

Stay Informed

Keep up with industry trends and advancements in AI and data analysis so you are always ahead of the curve.
Don’t just watch the future happen; be a part of it. A career in Business Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence offers not just a job, but a pathway to growth, innovation, and lasting impact. The World Economic Forum’s research is clear, the future belongs to those who are ready to embrace it – are you ready to make that leap?

References

World Economic Forum. (2025). Future of Jobs Report 2025

World Economic Forum, Future of Jobs Survey 2024

ADP Research