We’re moving fast towards a future where our day-to-day work could exist entirely in a virtual world. So, how can we future-proof ourselves, and what jobs are likely to exist?
In 2021, the social networking platform Facebook renamed its parent company, Meta, boldly outlining its ambitious push towards embracing AR and VR and describing the Metaverse as, ‘the next frontier’. Still, in its infancy, Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg, however, estimates that it could take 5-10 years for the main features of the Metaverse to become commonplace.
So, what is the Metaverse?
The Metaverse is a hypothesized imitation of the internet, that supports online 3D environments. This 3D virtual platform simulates a real-world environment, where users can navigate using eye movements, controls, and voice commands. The Metaverse is highly interactive, and we are still only beginning to understand the scope of its capabilities. Users can buy and trade digital assets along with exploring spaces using personalized avatars. From viewing luxurious real estate to attending private audiences with celebrities, the Metaverse unlocks a new way for the world to connect.
Forbes Middle East says that the Metaverse is expected to generate the equivalent of $5 trillion by 2030. It’s considered to have huge potential across a variety of sectors including fashion, art, and tech. Companies are investing heavily and roles will change and evolve, new positions will emerge as this shift continues.
Saudi Arabia is already delving into the world of the metaverse with the NEOM project. The vast $500 billion ‘country within a country’ will enable visitors to have a simultaneous presence at NEOM both physically and virtually, announcing their “cognitive digital twin metaverse”. Many companies, like Facebook, are early adapters of this technology. But NEOM, is building ‘the first metaverse that actually is a metaverse’, says NEOM Chief Executive, Joseph Bradley.
No matter the industry, there’s an expectation that there will be jobs related to a variety of fields within the metaverse. So, if you’re looking for an alternative career path, one that will potentially futureproof yourself for the new era of the metaverse, here are just a few of the predicted jobs, and many that already exist:
Research scientists
The Metaverse is largely dependent on researchers as the scope of this online universe is in its infancy and continues to broaden. Only limited by our imagination, creative and analytical researchers can fit this role. Governments and large firms are investing in the Metaverse and researchers in AR and VR are in demand.
Cyber security
Cybercrime comes in many forms, from fraud and hacking to data theft. So, having cyber security experts on Metaverse platforms is essential to combat hacked avatars, NFT theft, and more. Doroob is a Saudi platform that offers a number of cyber security courses which will teach anyone who’s interested in starting a career in cyber security.
Ecosystem development
The Metaverse world is complex, but we’re a long way from reaching its full potential. Infrastructure designers and developers will have the important task of building the ecosystem, ensuring the correct infrastructure is in place to welcome new technologies, and scaling its functionalities to create an improved user experience.
Graphics and game developers
Gamers are already utilizing the Metaverse in very cool ways and the scope for graphic designers to enhance gaming is huge. There’s room for improvement in developing animation, programming, lighting, map design, and 3D modeling software.
Design
A Saudi architect, Fatima Al-Assad is a Metaverse architect, where she designs digital spaces and uses these spaces to proudly express her Saudi heritage. She told Arab News, that companies are investing millions to own digital land, so it’s only natural that these spaces require design. “So as an architect, I am trying to actively participate in developing and designing that digital world for us.”
UI/UX designers
UX design refers to the term “user experience design”, while UI stands for “user interface design”. Both elements are crucial to the Metaverse. They ensure the Metaverse is easy to navigate and that it’s straightforward for the masses to use and understand. If you’re interested in user functionality, you can take a Principles of User Interface Design course offered by Edraak.
Digital artists
NFTs are the most common examples of digital art, but there are many other forms of digital art and design within the Metaverse. For example, your digital avatar. The creation of avatars is led by digital artists.
Avatar clothing designers
The metaverse is based on the notion that we exist as avatars. So when you’re going about your business, you’ll want to look good, so who’ll dress us? Avatar clothing designers.
Due to the pandemic, hybrid working and remote jobs became a thing of the present. With this new mindset and way of working, the concept of working in a virtual reality space has become even more possible.
Job boards associated with the metaverse, courses, and degrees are already being established in preparation for the future needs of people. It’s worth noting that Meta has already launched an academy in France for training purposes, on all things Metaverse, called The ‘Metaverse Academy. This proves the need for training in these roles exists and people who are early to embrace change will be well placed as new roles emerge.
