1. AI/ML Testing : Why in Demand : Rapid adoption of AI systems LLMs, recommendation engines across different industry needs test strategies around fairness, model drift, hallucinations Skill Gap: Few testers understand both testing and ML concepts; tools are still maturing
2. Security Testing (AppSec, API Sec) Why in Demand : Web apps and API major surface attacks → SEC and GDPR compliance needed Skill Gap: Deep knowledge needed (OWASP, pen testing, secure coding); many testers lack security mindset
3. ETL/Data QA + BI Validation Why in Demand : Data is the backbone of all analytics and AI Skill Gap: Requires SQL, ETL tool knowledge + understanding of data pipelines
I’d agree on the security testing, current world politics (not going into that here) combined with AI advances has likely ramped up this risk a lot. Its still one of the hardest areas to fast track skill in though, its complex and deep and even with good tools and training it can be hard for this one to stick and become a natural part of your testing.
AI/ML testing, less sure about this one and my thoughts are still out on whether a lower quality bar will be accepted in return for speed and capability. Definitely one to keep awareness of and take a few courses in though.
Accessibility. There is an EU compliance deadline at the end of this month so you will likely find a number of companies looking for some sort of tester signoff and statement for their apps and websites. Now for a tester my own view is the skills to cover this testing can be picked up fairly quickly, perhaps a couple of months you can get to that 80 of the 80/20 rule. It unlikely to be a full time role for most people so more likely just an extra skill in your current testing box.
I think it will be really interesting to see if the EU take anyone to court and the outcome of that case for a system not being accessible. If it/when happens if the consequences are large enough then I could see a boom in accessibility testing.
With the current political activities and relatively recent news headlines then security testing is going to be in high demand.
As for what else I just hope that companies keep investing in all software testing
Absolutely a landmark case around EU accessibility compliance could be a real turning point and game changer…Security testing, no doubt, is becoming non-negotiable. With the way global events and tech capabilities are evolving…Thank u for sharing ur thoughts
For me, a high-demand skill is the ability to choose and effectively use AI tools that can support various aspects of testing, including accessibility, security, and more."
AI/ML testing and security testing are somehow correlated. The more we develop AI/ML-based apps, especially through vibe coding, the more we need to ensure they are safe for use.
Also, security testing will be in demand because, with the help of AI, people are finding new ways to exploit the vulnerability of the apps.
Integration testing will also be important because every app will now be integrating LLMs and 3rd parties API so how safe the integration is and how properly it is working will also be much in demand.
Along with these accessibility testing is another testing that might be in demand.
