The future of work is changing faster than ever. Automation, artificial intelligence and the green transition are driving shifts we could hardly have imagined a decade ago. According to the Future of Jobs Report 2025 by the World Economic Forum, by 2030 around 92 million jobs will disappear, but at the same time 170 million new jobs will be created. That’s a net gain of 78 million opportunities. The question is not if the labour market will change, but rather: how do we prepare?
Five trends shaping the future of work
The report identifies five forces that will shape the jobs of tomorrow:
- Technological change, such as AI and automation
- The green transition towards sustainable energy and circular economies
- Demographic shifts, including ageing populations and migration
- Geopolitical fragmentation, putting globalisation under pressure
- Economic uncertainty, affecting sectors and investments
These trends bring both job losses and growth, particularly in technology, healthcare, education, construction and sustainable energy.
Skills that make the difference
It’s not just what we do that changes, but how. Technical skills such as AI literacy, data analysis, cybersecurity and digital fluency are on the rise. At the same time, human-centred capabilities like creativity, resilience, adaptability and leadership remain vital.
And crucially: Lifelong Learning itself - recognised in the report as a key skill for 2030. Alongside curiosity, it is what enables professionals to adapt, stay relevant and thrive. The combination of technical and social skills, underpinned by a continuous learning mindset, is what sets future-ready professionals apart.
What does this mean for organisations and learning?
Employers are increasingly moving towards skills-based hiring: assessing what people can do, not just their degrees. At the same time, a growing majority of businesses now invest actively in reskilling and upskilling.
For lifelong learning providers, this creates an opportunity: short, flexible learning programmes, micro-credentials and digital upskilling pathways fit perfectly with the changing demand for skills. A culture of continuous learning will be the foundation of success.
Ready for the future?
The labour market of 2030 will be dynamic, digital and human-centred. The challenge is clear: those who keep learning today, will stay relevant tomorrow.
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