The UX landscape is evolving faster than ever, driven by AI, automation, and digital transformation. According to the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Future of Jobs Report 2025, the demand for UX-related skills is rapidly shifting, with technological literacy, AI expertise, and cybersecurity awareness becoming essential for designers. Staying ahead means not just designing better interfaces, but also integrating emerging technologies, adapting to change, and thinking more holistically about user experiences.
For those looking to dip their toe into these essential skills, here’s a starting point with curated resources to explore and learn.
Top 5 fastest growing skills by 2030
- AI and Big Data
- Networks and Cybersecurity
- Technological Literacy
- Creative Thinking
- Resilience, Flexibility and Agility
1. AI and Big Data
World Ecomomic Forum Summary
Proficiency in artificial intelligence and the ability to analyse and interpret large datasets are increasingly essential as businesses integrate AI technologies into their operations.
How it relates to UX
As UX designers we must leverage AI-driven tools to enhance user research, personalisation, and predictive analytics. Understanding data-driven decision-making helps in creating smarter, user-centric experiences. AI can also assist in automating usability testing, content recommendations, and interface adaptations.
I’ve been exploring AI-driven UX tools like Miro’s AI features and custom GPT agents, including one I built for an Australian accessibility agent (A11y Agent in Oz). These experiments highlight AI’s role in streamlining workflows, enhancing accessibility, and designing more intuitive experiences.
Explore & Learn
| Read | AI for UX Designers – by Lise Pilot [4.9  ] |
| Watch | Google’s 8-Hour AI Essentials Course in 15 Minutes” – by Tina Huang [364k  ] |
| Do | AI for Everyone” on Coursera – by Andrew Ng [4.8 ] |
| Play | Explore AI experiments with Google Labs – at labs.google |
2. Networks and Cybersecurity
World Ecomomic Forum Summary
With the expansion of digital access, securing networks against cyber threats has become paramount, leading to a surge in demand for cybersecurity expertise.
How it relates to UX
As designers creating digital experiences, we must ensure that privacy, security, and trust are built into our designs. UX professionals play a role in designing secure authentication flows, protecting user data, and following EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Australias Privacy Act 1988, Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) and accessibility standards.
Explore & Learn
| Read | Human-Centered Security – by Heidi Trost [5.0 ] |
| Watch | Designing Effective Security UX: If It’s Not Usable, It’s Not Secure – on YouTube [2.7k ] |
| Do | Introduction to Cybersecurity Fundamentals – on Coursera [4.6 ] |
| Play | Cybersecurity at tryhackme.com | Mozilla Observatory at observatory.mozilla.org |
3. Technological Literacy
World Ecomomic Forum Summary
Understanding and effectively utilising emerging digital technologies is crucial for adapting to technological advancements in the workplace.
How it relates to UX
As UX designers we must stay ahead by learning automation, no-code/low-code tools, Web3, and AI-powered design platforms. A strong grasp of digital platforms allows for smarter, more efficient workflows and better cross-functional collaboration.
Explore & Learn
| Read | Innovation Lab Excellence: Digital Transformation from Within – by Richard Turrin [4.5 ] |
| Watch | UX/UI In The AI Era – Simplest Design Process! – on YouTube by AI Tooltips [81k ] |
| Do | Using AI in the UX Design Process – on LinkedIn Learning [4.7 ] |
| Play | Create interactive prototypes effortlessly – with uizard.io |
4. Creative Thinking
World Ecomomic Forum Summary
The ability to devise innovative solutions and think outside the box is increasingly valued in dynamic and competitive markets.
How it relates to UX
Creativity is the foundation of UX problem-solving. Designers must think beyond conventional solutions, apply storytelling, experiment with new interactions, and push the boundaries of user engagement.
Explore and Learn
| Read | The Creative Act: A Way of Being – by Rick Rubin [4.7 ] |
| Watch | The Surprising Habits of Original Thinkers – TED Talk by Adam Grant [11M ] |
| Do | Creative Problem Solving – on Coursera [4.4 ] |
| Play | Train your creativity with AI at Quick, Draw! at – Quickdraw.withgoogle.com |
5. Resilience, Flexibility and Agility
World Ecomomic Forum Summary
Adaptability to changing circumstances and the capacity to recover from setbacks are essential traits in a rapidly evolving job landscape.
How it relates to UX
Designers must be comfortable with iteration, testing, and refining ideas based on real user feedback. Flexibility is key in working with developers, stakeholders, and evolving design requirements.
Explore and Learn
| Read | Mindset: The New Psychology of Success – by Carol Dweck [4.6 ] |
| Watch | The three secrets of resilient people – Lucy Hone [51k  ] |
| Do | Building Resilience – on LinkedIn Learning [4.7 ] |
| Play | Explore problem-solving & decision-making frameworks – Untools.co |
Part 2 – Coming Soon
The next top 5 fastest growing skills by 2030
6. Curiosity and Lifelong Learning
7. Leadership and Social Influence
8. Talent Management
9. Analytical Thinking
10. Environmental Stewardship