Week_2_lesson_3_reading

1. Jobs of the Future

Astana IT University
Department of General Disciplines
English for Academic Purposes
Jobs of the Future
Week 2 Lesson 3
Reading

2. Vocabulary Preview

2. Read the text carefully. Which of the following titles best reflects its main idea?
Choose one and explain your choice in 1–2 sentences.
A. The skills students need for a changing economy
B. Future professions: a glimpse into tomorrow’s job market
C. How technology and demographics shape careers
D. New challenges in education and training

3.

As the world rapidly evolves, so too does the job market. Professions that were once considered stable are now
being replaced by new, emerging roles. For university students, understanding these changes is crucial for making
informed career choices. This passage explores some of the future professions that are expected to be in high
demand, highlighting the skills required and the industries that will drive economic growth in the coming decades.
1. Data scientists: The architects of the digital age
In an era dominated by information, data has become one of the most valuable resources. Data scientists are at
the forefront of this revolution. They collect, analyze, and interpret vast amounts of data to help companies make
informed decisions. According to recent studies, the demand for data scientists is expected to grow by 30% over
the next decade. This role requires strong analytical skills, proficiency in programming languages like Python and
R, and the ability to think critically. Industries such as finance, healthcare, and marketing are particularly in need
of these professionals.
2. Renewable energy technicians: Powering a sustainable future
As the world shifts away from fossil fuels, renewable energy is becoming a major focus for governments and
businesses alike. Renewable energy technicians play a key role in this transition. They are responsible for
installing and maintaining solar panels, wind turbines, and other sustainable energy systems. With the global
renewable energy market projected to reach $1.5 trillion by 2028, this profession offers a promising career path.
Technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a strong understanding of environmental issues are essential for
success in this field.

4.

3. Healthcare professionals: The lifesavers of tomorrow
The healthcare industry is undergoing significant changes, driven by advancements in technology and an aging
global population. New roles are emerging, such as telemedicine specialists, who provide remote healthcare
services, and genetic counselors, who help patients understand their genetic risks. The World Health Organization
predicts a shortage of 18 million healthcare workers by 2030, highlighting the urgent need for trained professionals.
Skills in communication, empathy, and specialized medical knowledge will be critical for those entering this field.
4. Cybersecurity experts: Protectors of the digital world
With the increasing reliance on digital platforms, cybersecurity has become a top priority for organizations
worldwide. Cybersecurity experts are responsible for protecting sensitive information from cyber threats, such as
hacking and data breaches. The demand for these professionals is expected to grow by 32% by 2029, according to
the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Key skills for this profession include knowledge of network security, ethical
hacking, and a deep understanding of cyber laws and regulations.
5. Creative technologists: Bridging art and technology
As technology continues to permeate every aspect of our lives, there is a growing demand for creative
technologists—professionals who blend artistic skills with technical expertise. These individuals work in fields such
as virtual reality, game design, and digital media, creating innovative experiences that engage and inspire audiences.
The creative technology market is expected to expand by 20% over the next five years. A strong foundation in both
the arts and technology, coupled with a willingness to experiment and innovate, is crucial for success in this
profession.

5.

Comprehension
3. Read the statements below. Decide if they are True (T) or False (F) according to the text. If
the statement is false, correct it.
1.
Data scientists mainly help companies make decisions by working with large amounts of
information.
2.
Renewable energy technicians focus on developing new fossil fuels for future industries.
3.
One of the reasons healthcare needs more workers is because the global population is
getting older.
4.
Cybersecurity experts are expected to deal with threats such as hacking and data
breaches.
5.
Creative technologists usually combine artistic abilities with technical knowledge.
6.
The demand for data scientists is predicted to increase by 50% in the next decade.

6. Comprehension

4. Read the text and choose the correct answer.
1.
Why are data scientists considered
important in modern industries?
A. They design websites and apps
B. They analyze information to support
decision-making
C. They provide medical consultations online
D. They install new energy systems
3. What makes healthcare professionals
especially necessary in the future?
A. The increasing popularity of game design
B. The shortage of skilled workers and aging
societies
C. The expansion of renewable energy industries
D. The rise of social media platforms
2.
Which factor explains the growing
importance of renewable energy
technicians?
A. The need to replace fossil fuels with
sustainable solutions
B. The rising demand for faster internet
connections
C. The development of new programming
languages
D. The decline of global healthcare systems
4. According to the text, which combination of
skills is most relevant for cybersecurity experts?
A. Artistic creativity and teamwork
B. Ethical hacking and knowledge of laws
C. Empathy and communication
D. Problem-solving and environmental
awareness

7. Comprehension

4. Read the text and choose the correct answer.
5. Why are creative technologists described as “bridging art and technology”?
A. They use both design skills and technical expertise
B. They work mainly in hospitals and clinics
C. They are responsible for producing fossil fuels
D. They analyze data in finance and healthcare
6. Which field is expected to grow by around 20% in the next five years?
A. Creative technology
B. Data science
C. Renewable energy
D. Cybersecurity

8. Comprehension

5. Complete the summary below using the correct words from the box. You may need to
change the form of the words.
Cybersecurity – renewable energy – shortage – data scientists – creative
technologists – healthcare – skills
Summary:
The text describes several professions that will be crucial in the future job market.
__________ are needed to analyze information and help companies make decisions.
As societies shift to __________, technicians will be responsible for maintaining sustainable
systems.
In __________, new roles such as telemedicine specialists are appearing, and there may be a global
__________ of workers by 2030.
With the growth of digital platforms, __________ experts protect sensitive information from
threats.
Finally, __________ combine artistic knowledge with technical expertise to create innovative
products.

9.

Thank you!