HYDERABAD: Despite Artificial Intelligence, block chain and new technologies coming in, 20-year-old Java continues to be the popular programming language closely followed by 27-year-old Python. While the IEEE Spectrum report rated Python as one, TIOBE Index rated Java as number one. At a time when the average life span of a technical skill is very low and up skilling, there are significant numbers of techies in Hyderabad who have learnt Java and are experts.
Older than Java, Python’s popularity is because of its repeated use in data analytics, artificial intelligence and machine learning. Fortune 500 companies continue to use these programming languages. Java and Python in itself allow programmers to choose from a variety of career paths. Experts noted that with Java skills employees at associate level (up to 4 years of experience) can survive, but in order to future-proof their careers, it is important for mid-managers and senior professionals to up-skill and not rely only on Java.
Mr Sandeep Kumar Makthala of Telangana IT Association said, “Java is going to stay as it is the foundation for many skills. But an employee with only Java as a skill is not recommended especially for future prospects. A combination of skills especially once you’ve about 4-5years of experience in the industry is mandatory as the roles keep evolving. IT professionals need to invest in learning new skills at least 10 times in their career to achieve career growth.”
While techies amend their programming skills constantly and most employers are looking for people who can learn independently and have these fundamental skills, coding has become basic literacy for IT professionals. Mr Ramesh Loganathan, IIIT-Hyderabad professor said, “Advanced Java skills are safe for a decade as the entire ERP system will continue to exist although new technologies are being added. Even to learn high-end skills like Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning or Block Chain, basics of programming is a must.
