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Is a career in Data Science still worth it?

I’m interested in data science, but unsure if it’s still worth a try with the AI, job cuts and competition. I keep seeing news about CEOs saying AI will replace people and do all the work. The layoffs also make me doubt if I should pursue this career.

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Doc’s Answer

Viktoriia looking ahead to the next 2-3 decades, advancements in technology and artificial intelligence, are set to transform the job market. While some careers may become obsolete, others will thrive for those with the right skills and expertise. If you’re aiming for a career that could promise longevity, here’s my breakdown:

🌐 DATA SCIENTIST
In today’s world, data is one of the most valuable resources. Data scientists, who are responsible for analyzing large datasets to uncover trends and actionable insights, will continue to be highly sought after. From finance to healthcare and beyond, nearly every industry will require data scientists to help make informed decisions and solve complex problems. They'll typically use business logic, programming and statistics to form comprehensive data conclusions. Data scientists may use this statistical data to improve business efficiencies, understand social media user preferences or to make predictions about sales or revenue projections.

🧿 ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST
AI is already making waves across industries, and its influence will only continue to grow in the years ahead. AI specialists focus on creating, implementing, and optimizing artificial intelligence systems, whether it’s for healthcare, transportation, finance, or entertainment. Professionals such as AI engineers, machine learning experts, and data scientists will be in particularly high demand, as companies strive to leverage AI to streamline operations and drive innovation.

⚙️ ROBOTICS SERVICE TECHNICIANS
In the years to come, there will be robots almost everywhere (in schools, homes, public places, on the street, just everywhere). These sophisticated robots will be needed to make activities more efficient aiding in activities such as cleaning, lawn maintenance, cooking, and washing. Being machines, they might not work to the degree to which they ought to. As such there will be a need for robot service technicians to repair or reprogram robots that go haywire or cease to function. Robot technicians will be a household name just like plumbers, electricians, and skilled trade persons.

💊 NANOTECH ENGINEERS
Innovations have been developed from manipulating matter at the molecular level. Futurists have predicted that shortly, self-replicating nanostructures will be used in the construction of nanorobots that will be inserted into the immune system of humans to boast in fighting against foreign diseases. As this technology gains ascendency, there will be a need for specialists in the area of Nanotechnology engineering to ensure that this innovation doesn’t pose a threat to the healthy well-being of humans.

🌀 CYBERSECURITY PROFESSIONAL
As digital threats grow more sophisticated, the need for cybersecurity experts is only going to increase. These professionals are responsible for protecting organizations’ digital assets from cyber attacks, hacking, and data breaches. Roles such as security analysts, ethical hackers, and information security managers will be crucial for businesses across all sectors.

The future is yours Viktoriia

Doc recommends the following next steps:

interested in pursuing a career in Data Science, the field requires a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, and programming. You can start by learning the basics of programming languages like Python or R, and then move on to more advanced topics in machine learning and data analysis. To get hands-on training, join the live online Data Science course by WsCube Tech which is a great way to start. This program provides practical, real-world experience, with the convenience of learning from home.
Thank you comment icon Thank you for your answer, Doc! I’ve never heard of nanotech engineers before so thank you for telling me the new career opportunities of the future world. Viktoriia
Thank you comment icon Thank You Cathy. Great opportunities to help others seldom come, but small ones surround us every day. Doc Frick
Thank you comment icon Thank You Frank. The best way to find yourself, is to lose yourself in the service of others. Doc Frick
Thank you comment icon Thank You Nikhil. You have not lived until you have done something for someone who can never repay you. Doc Frick
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Ashutosh’s Answer

Data Science will remain important in the future. As time goes on, the work and tools will change, making some tasks easier. Right now, a lot of time is spent organizing data instead of finding insights.

AI won't replace skilled people anytime soon. Programmers and data scientists are in the best position to use AI effectively. If AI does take over, it will be for simple tasks that don't add much value.

When you work, always understand how your efforts contribute to the bigger picture. Make sure your contribution keeps growing as part of the overall success.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, Ashutosh! Can you recommend coursers or platforms where I can learn how to use AI for data science? Viktoriia
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Patrick’s Answer

Yes, a career in Data Science is still very much worth pursuing, despite the rise of AI, the competitive job market, and recent headlines about layoffs. Data Science continues to be one of the most in-demand fields, offering a vast array of opportunities across industries, from healthcare and finance to marketing and technology. While it is true that AI and automation are changing the nature of many jobs, these technologies also rely heavily on skilled data scientists to develop, manage, and refine algorithms. The role of a data scientist is evolving, but it is not being replaced. Rather, it is being augmented by AI, creating a more dynamic and exciting career landscape.

AI systems themselves need to be built, trained, and continuously improved by experts in data science. As a result, the demand for skilled data scientists who can not only understand complex data but also interpret and communicate insights in a way that drives strategic decision-making is still strong. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in computer and information research science occupations, which includes data scientists, is projected to grow 19% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for other professions (BLS Data - https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm ). This growth reflects the ongoing need for human expertise in a field that is increasingly intertwined with technology.

While the job market may be competitive and some industries are experiencing layoffs, these factors should not deter you from pursuing data science. Instead, they highlight the need to stay adaptable, continuously update your skill set, and specialize in areas where human expertise is indispensable—such as machine learning, data ethics, and business intelligence. Websites like Kaggle - https://www.kaggle.com/ and DataCamp - https://www.datacamp.com/ offer valuable resources and hands-on training to help you build your skills in data science and stay ahead of trends in the field. By focusing on building a strong foundation in data science and staying up to date with emerging technologies, you can ensure that you remain competitive and valuable in the job market. Data science offers long-term career prospects, especially for those who combine technical proficiency with creativity and business acumen.
Thank you comment icon Thank you for the answer and encouragement, Patrick! Viktoriia
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Michele’s Answer

Definitely, stick with it! Data science remains a strong career choice, even with AI coming to the forefront. AI depends on data, and data scientists are crucial for their critical thinking and communication skills, which AI hasn't mastered yet. AI-generated results still need a data scientist to check and ensure the models work properly.

AI will be a helpful tool to support and improve the work of data scientists, not replace them. Also, if you like software engineering, system design, and deploying models, you can move from being a Data Scientist to an AI Engineer. If you choose to stay as a Data Scientist, you'll still be important. AI Engineers work with data scientists and software engineers to add AI solutions to products and services, so your role is vital in an AI-focused world.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, Michele! Your answer encouraged me. Viktoriia
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Christopher’s Answer

Yes, a career in data science is generally considered worth it due to high demand, competitive salaries, and the potential for impactful work, making it a promising and lucrative career path.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, Christopher! Viktoriia
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Stephanie’s Answer

You can take a free, short class (less than one hour) in data science to see if you enjoy the field on HP LIFE- https://www.life-global.org/course/344-data-science-and-analytics. There are other classes in digital business skills that you can take also. Each class will give you a free certificate.
Thank you comment icon That’s interesting! Thank you, Stephanie! Viktoriia
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Sneha’s Answer

Hi Viktoriia! It’s totally valid to feel uncertain but yes, a career in Data Science is still worth it. While AI tools are becoming more powerful, they still need skilled people to build, interpret, and apply them in real-world situations. Companies still rely heavily on data scientists to make sense of complex data, guide decisions, and build trustworthy AI systems. The field is evolving, not disappearing so staying curious, adaptable, and building strong skills in areas like Python, machine learning, data storytelling, and ethics will keep you in demand. Good luck!
Thank you comment icon Thanks, Sneha! Viktoriia
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Erin’s Answer

Hi Viktoriia,

As others have mentioned, you still have time to contribute to the advent of AI as a Data Scientist. No one knows when or what the changes of AI will happen and to what extent it will rule certain fields obsolete. I think we can all pretty safely say that we have at least 2 decades before ASI is good to function without humans in the loop.

These computers are still babies at trying to read, speak, listen, create and especially trying to move and interact with the physical world. Each of these domain areas require decades of development for which you as a Data Scientist will help. I would say pick a domain and see what the gap is in terms of Current State and Ideal State (defined by ASI and no human needed). Definitely pick the domain that interests you, but also the domain with the largest gap to close, hoping that it is the field that has the longest run ramp.

Take care,
Thank you comment icon That’s an interesting point. Thank you, Erin! Viktoriia
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David’s Answer

No business can 100% rely on AI for sure. Human-in-the -loop is alway necessary to saftguard every decision-making. I agree that the demand for entry level of analytsts is getting low. But those experienced analysts are still hot in the market. You will have less chance to get hired as an entry. So what you can do is to get experience somehow / somewhere.
Thank you comment icon Thank you for your honest answer, David! Viktoriia
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