Software development has been an attractive career path for many people worldwide, and New Zealand is not an exception. As technology continues to advance, the demand for software developers is only increasing. In this blog post, we'll explore the future of software development careers in New Zealand. 1. Growth of the IT Industry New Zealand's IT industry is rapidly growing, with a market value of $12.3 billion in 2018, accounting for 7% of the country's economy. The industry is forecasted to grow even further, creating more job opportunities for software developers. A report conducted by the Digital Skills Forum forecasts that New Zealand will need 28,000 more IT professionals by 2021. This demand is a result of the increasing adoption of digital technologies in various industries, the government's focus on digital transformation, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain. 2. High Salaries Software developers in New Zealand earn a high salary, with an average salary of $76,000-$102,000 per annum. The high demand for software developers has increased their value in the job market, leading to attractive salary packages, sign-on bonuses, remote work options, and other benefits. This trend is expected to continue as companies compete for top software talent, creating a favorable environment for developers looking for high-paying positions. 3. Remote Work Opportunities The Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote work globally, including New Zealand, leading to a revolution in the software development industry. Software development positions that were previously location-bound are now open to remote work. This trend is expected to continue even after the pandemic, creating opportunities for developers to work from anywhere in the world. Companies are also likely to attract top software talent by offering flexible work options, including remote work, which allows software developers to combine work and lifestyle. 4. Collaboration with Different Industries Software developers in New Zealand do not only work in the tech industry but also collaborate with various industries such as healthcare, banking, and finance, agriculture, and manufacturing. This cross-collaboration offers developers new opportunities to apply their skills in various fields, giving them exposure to different industries' demands and needs. Collaboration with various industries can also lead to the creation of innovative solutions that solve real-world problems. 5. Emphasis on Skill Development The software development industry is constantly evolving, and developers must keep up with emerging technologies to remain relevant. To address this need, professionals in New Zealand take advantage of online training platforms, coding boot camps, and educational facilities to acquire new skills and enhance their abilities. Employers also invest in their employees' skill development through training and development programs, creating a culture of continuous learning. Conclusion Software developers' future in New Zealand is bright, with the industry's rapid growth, high salaries, remote work opportunities, cross-collaboration with various industries, and continued emphasis on skill development. With the government's focus on digital transformation, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain, software developers' skills are in demand now and in the future.