When it comes to landing a high-paying job, the thing that counts the most is the practical skills you possess. In a dynamic and global industry like software, mastering the right skills at the right time is crucial. Here is a list of the most highly paid tech skills that you can pick up this New Year to boost your resume and your bank balance:

1) Data science skills

Data science can be defined as obtaining insights and information out of data, using a blend of various tools, algorithms, and machine learning principles. Data scientists are much needed in key industries like finance, banking, and healthcare because they enable businesses and organizations to make better, data-driven decisions. data science, tech jobs According to LinkedIn’s Most Promising Jobs 2018 report, job openings for Data Scientist roles have a 45% year-over-year growth rate. A data scientist who also knows how to do data visualization to help people understand the significance of data is highly sought-after. The median base salary for data scientists is $113,000.

The demand for talented professionals in data science is on the rise. From the banking sector to retail, companies across sectors are vying to recruit candidates with talent in data science. Learning programming languages, like R, and SAS in data science is must-do. R language is the most in-demand data science skill that is useful for advanced statistical analysis and visualization. According to Glassdoor, Data Scientists earn close to $110,000 a year.  

2) Development (web, mobile, software)

Developers are responsible for designing, installing, testing and maintaining appropriate systems for web, mobile and software. Businesses that want to stay relevant will need developers who can build mobile apps for them and help them streamline their business processes including inventories and sales using a backend system.

You can make big money with your ideas for developed apps. Don’t worry if you are new to the field.  For those with a passion to build new products, app development projects are a great way to learn and build the skill portfolio. To be successful in the field, developers need to master programming languages like Java, Python, Swift, C++, C#, and, Objective C. Experience in UI and UX will give you an added edge.  

With languages like C++, C#, and Objective C, you can create all types of mobile apps. Swift is more popular for building iOS apps. Additionally, learning programming languages like Java and Python can also help in automation and data crawling. As a language that can be run on any platform, Java is one of the most sought-after programming language used by more than 90% of Fortune 500 companies to build apps. If you know basic Java programming, you can quite easily create Android-based apps. The best way to find highly paid jobs in Java is by participating in hackathons and challenges conducted by recruiting companies.

3) Data visualization skills

With the growth of machine learning and big data, the demand for skills in data analysis is expected to grow. This includes expertise in languages like SQL. Structured Query Language (SQL) is a specialized programming language designed for managing enterprise database. Knowledge of SQL can land you a high paid job as a business analyst or data analyst. Moreover, you can easily create summarize large volumes of business data.

As more companies shift to cloud, the demand for professionals with skills in cloud computing and software as a service (SaaS) will grow. With SaaS programming skills, you can make over $50 an hour as a freelancer. To profit from the reap the benefits, add specific skills like Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Hyper-V, and VMware to your list for the year. Also, you can gain experience with DevOps, containers, cloud stack, and IPv6 to find well-paid software projects.  

5) Cybersecurity skills

Cybersecurity experts are in demand due to the increasing attacks brought forth by hackers who want to steal customer information collected by companies. Data breaches could trigger lawsuits and could be very costly. There is currently a huge gap in the market and it’s estimated that there will be 3.5 million unfulfilled cybersecurity jobs by 2021. This means that if you learn this skill now, you’d have a huge chance of succeeding and securing well-paying jobs. The average annual salary of cybersecurity experts is $82,768.

Protecting the database, networks, and applications from cyber attacks is not an easy job. Every company strives for a robust system to prevent costly security breaches. Skills in secure software development, intrusion detection, and attack mitigation are quite coveted. To become an expert, you can study about firewalls and scripting languages, and get a deep understanding of networks and operating systems. As a specialist in cybersecurity, you not only make big bucks, you also contribute effectively to building a safer world.

These 5 tech skills can make you richer this New Year. The key to a successful career in IT is to adapt to new technology and make learning new skills, a habit.