How to Future-Proof Your Network Team for Emerging Technologies

As technology continues to reshape the way we work, the need to future-proof your network team has never been more pressing. With emerging technologies like IoT, edge computing, AI, and automation transforming network infrastructure, it’s essential for businesses to adapt their teams to stay ahead of the curve. 

In this blog, we explore the technologies driving change and how your network team can adapt to meet these new challenges head-on.

Emerging Technologies Transforming Network Infrastructure

Technologies such as IoT, edge computing, AI, and automation are increasingly influencing how networks function. These advancements require new approaches to infrastructure, security, and management. 

Let’s look at the role of these technologies and how your network team must adapt to integrate them effectively:

1. Internet of Things (IoT)

IoT is not just about connecting devices to the internet. With billions of devices generating vast amounts of data, businesses must manage the increased demand for bandwidth, optimize connectivity, and secure the network. As IoT adoption grows, your team will need to develop expertise in data protocols, device management, and cybersecurity best practices to manage the complexities of a connected world.

2. Edge Computing

Edge computing allows data processing to occur closer to the source, reducing latency and enabling real-time decision-making. This shift demands a new approach to network architecture, with an emphasis on decentralized computing and resource optimization. A well-prepared network team will be ready to handle the challenges of managing distributed networks and ensuring the security and scalability of edge computing solutions.

3. Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI and machine learning are transforming how networks are managed. Automation powered by AI can detect anomalies, optimize traffic flows, and predict maintenance needs. However, integrating AI into network management requires new skill sets in data analytics, algorithm development, and system integration. Your network team will need to embrace AI tools to stay ahead in the industry.

4. Automation

Automation simplifies many aspects of network management, from provisioning to performance monitoring. While it can significantly reduce manual effort, implementing and maintaining automation requires expertise in orchestration tools such as Ansible and Terraform. With automation advancing, your team will need to stay up-to-date with the latest tools to ensure smooth operations.

Skills Your Network Team Needs for Emerging Technologies 

To successfully manage these advancements, your network team will need to develop both technical and soft skills. A blend of both is necessary to keep up with the future of technological innovation.

Technical Skills

Here are the key technical skills professionals will need to stay ahead of emerging technologies:

• Programming: Understanding programming languages like Python or JavaScript is essential for automation, AI integration, and network management.
• Cloud Computing: Familiarity with cloud platforms such as AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft Azure is important for managing scalable networks.
• IoT and Edge Computing: Expertise in device protocols, edge frameworks, and distributed systems will be key in managing IoT networks and edge environments.
• AI and Machine Learning: Knowledge of machine learning algorithms and AI-driven solutions will be vital for automating network operations and optimizing performance.

Soft Skills

For all the good technical skills may bring, soft skills are just as valuable. Here are some of the crucial soft skills employers should prioritize: 

• Adaptability: Your network team must be agile and open to learning new technologies as they emerge.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical thinking is essential to troubleshoot complex network issues and implement solutions.
• Collaboration: Cross-functional teamwork is necessary to integrate these technologies seamlessly into business operations.

How to Upskill Your Team for Emerging Network Jobs

Upskilling your existing workforce is an effective way to address skill gaps and prepare for the future. With the prevalence of technological change, creating a structured upskilling strategy can help your team thrive in new network jobs.

As 92% of technology roles evolve, more and more global businesses are beginning to invest in upskilling programs. For example, through the AI Opportunity Fund, Google.org is providing over $25 million in funding to help educators and students build AI skills, highlighting the increased focus on upskilling and building on skills around emerging technologies.

With this in mind, let’s explore the ideal upskilling strategy that will help your business stay ahead of advancing technologies:

Step 1: Identify Skill Gaps

Start by assessing your team’s current skill set against the skills required for emerging technologies. This can be done through employee performance reviews, skills assessments, or even by seeking input from external experts.

Step 2: Design Tailored Upskilling Programs

Once skill gaps are identified, create targeted upskilling programs to address them. These programs could include online courses on cloud platforms, hands-on workshops for automation tools, or specialized training for AI implementation.

Step 3: Make the Most of Online Learning Platforms

Platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning offer affordable access to courses and certifications. Consider incorporating these into your upskilling strategy to keep your team engaged and up-to-date with industry best practices.

Step 4: Encourage Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing

Pairing junior team members with more experienced mentors can help close knowledge gaps and create a culture of continuous learning. Regular knowledge-sharing sessions can keep everyone updated on the latest tools and technologies.

Step 5: Reward Employee Growth

Incentivize employees to engage in upskilling programs by offering rewards such as salary increases, promotions, or additional time off for completing certifications. When employees feel valued and recognised, they’re more likely to stay with your organization.

To learn more about how to effectively upskill your network team, discover our insightful guide - How to Upskill Network Engineers for Future Industry Advancements.

Trends in Network Jobs and Salaries

Salary expectations for network professionals are steadily rising, and it’s no surprise. The demand for expertise in technologies like AI, IoT, and edge computing has created a highly competitive market.

Businesses are beginning to feel the pressure to offer attractive salaries and benefits to bring in and keep talented professionals with knowledge of emerging technologies.

Why Salaries Are Rising

Several key factors are driving these increases, and understanding them can help your business stay competitive:

• Talent Scarcity: Specialized skill sets are essential for emerging technologies, yet the talent pool hasn’t quite caught up. This gap means businesses must offer higher salaries to secure the right expertise.
• High Demand Across Industries: It’s not just tech companies anymore. Sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and retail are also investing in digital transformation, which increases the demand for skilled network professionals.
• Evolving Job Responsibilities: Traditional networking roles are changing. Now, they often include responsibilities like cybersecurity, integrating machine learning, and managing edge computing systems, which naturally command higher pay.
• Upskilling Investments: Candidates who have taken steps to upskill themselves in sought-after areas are often rewarded with premium salaries. Employers value those who can hit the ground running with the latest technologies.

Breakdown of Key Network Jobs and Salaries

Here’s a closer look at the specific network jobs driving the demand:

AI Network Engineers

AI network engineers stand out as some of the highest-paid professionals in this field. Their expertise in integrating machine learning tools into network management makes them invaluable.

Primary Responsibilities: These include designing automated network systems, developing AI-driven security protocols, and optimizing bandwidth with predictive analytics.

Salary: Around $136,620 annually for experienced professionals.

Emerging Trend: More businesses are looking for engineers with programming expertise in Python and a solid understanding of neural networks to lead their automation efforts.

Edge Computing Engineers

With data processing moving closer to devices, edge computing engineers are essential for businesses prioritizing speed and efficiency.

Primary Responsibilities: Building and maintaining edge computing frameworks, implementing real-time data processing, and ensuring security across distributed systems.

Salary: For Mid-Level Edge Computing Engineers, the salary range is around $90,000 to $120,000 per year. 

Emerging Trend: Industries like logistics and retail, which require rapid local data analysis, are becoming significant employers for professionals in this role.

IoT Network Engineers

IoT engineers are at the core of connecting and securing the billions of devices that make up modern IoT ecosystems.

Primary Responsibilities: Managing IoT protocols, ensuring secure connectivity for devices, and optimizing sensor data flows.

Salary: The average salary is $130,000 per year. 

Emerging Trend: Healthcare and smart cities are adopting IoT at scale, driving increased demand for engineers who can handle these complex ecosystems.

Key Takeaways: How to Future-Proof Your Network Team

Keeping your network team ahead of emerging technologies means building the right skills and staying adaptable. With AI, IoT, edge computing, and automation changing how networks operate, teams that embrace upskilling will best manage new challenges. Taking the time to assess skill gaps, invest in training, and encourage continuous learning will make a real difference in long-term success.

As demand for network professionals grows, businesses must offer more than just a paycheck. Competitive salaries matter, but so do career development opportunities and a workplace that supports innovation. Engineers with AI expertise, cloud knowledge, and automation skills are in high demand, and keeping them engaged means giving them the tools and projects to grow.

A strong network team won’t build itself, but the right steps today will make a big impact on the future. Whether it’s upskilling existing staff, bringing in fresh talent, or creating a culture of knowledge-sharing, every investment in your team helps you stay ahead of industry changes. The businesses that plan for what’s next will lead the way.

Future-Proof Your Team with Expert Network Recruitment Solutions

Technology isn’t slowing down, and neither should your team. Without the right AI, IoT, and automation expertise, keeping up with change becomes a constant challenge. Our network recruitment services help you find network professionals who can lead future initiatives. Don’t risk falling behind while competitors build stronger, smarter teams. 

Contact us to find the talent that will drive your business forward.