9TH APR 2026
The Evolution of Careers in Cyber and Computing
Did you know that jobs in cybersecurity are growing, not declining, because of artificial intelligence (AI)? In fact, according to Cybercrime Magazine it is projected that there will be 4.5 million unfilled cybersecurity roles worldwide in 2026, which is an increase of 350% since 2013.
Forget the myth that AI and automation will replace people in cyber and computing roles, there is still enormous opportunity to kick-start a career in this rapidly expanding industry. Roles are evolving rather than disappearing, with growing demand for positions such as AI Security Engineers, AI Risk Specialists and Data Governance Specialists, to name just a few.
AI is a powerful tool, not a threat. Not only can it drive efficiency and enhance security, but it also creates opportunities for you to develop new skills and adapt existing ones for the future world of work. As cyber threats multiply faster than humans alone can track, AI can support businesses in their day-to-day operations without replacing human expertise. This enables professionals to focus on strategic thinking that requires genuine human judgement.
The World Economic Forum suggests, “87% of cybersecurity professionals expect AI to enhance key aspects of their roles, while only 2% believe it will replace them entirely. Still, this transformation is not without friction. The technology’s power is only as strong as the people behind it.
Nearly 48% of IT decision-makers identify a lack of staff with sufficient AI expertise as the biggest barrier to adoption. While organisations recognise AI’s potential, many struggle to find professionals with the technical knowledge needed to deploy, manage and govern these systems effectively”.
This skills gap means there is a huge range of opportunities, with organisations eager to fill these roles. Gloucestershire is home to major cyber and computing employers such as GCHQ and boasts the largest cyber cluster outside of London. Research conducted by GFirst LEP shows that the region supports over 350 firms and 16,000 jobs, generating £1.6 billion annually. With Gloucestershire set to become the UK’s cyber capital through initiatives such as the Golden Valley development, there has never been a better time to get involved.
Employers consistently highlight the importance of candidates having some practical experience, which is why Gloucestershire College could be the perfect next step. With links to over 1,300 local employers, the college offers valuable opportunities to gain meaningful work experience and industry placements.
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Digital Computer Games Design and Development Level 2
Digital Computer Games Design and Development Level 3
Digital Software Development T-Level
Forensic Computing and Cyber Security Level 3
