Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the global market, and the IT industry is no exception. In the Western Balkans, where the IT sector has experienced dynamic growth in recent years, AI is becoming a key factor in shaping the supply and demand for professionals in this field. While AI creates new opportunities for innovation, it simultaneously presents challenges to traditional roles in the industry. This blog analyzes how AI is influencing the IT market in the region, what changes it brings, and how professionals and companies can adapt to new trends.
Traditional IT skills such as web development, system administration, and backend programming are still in demand, but with the growth of AI technologies, demand is increasingly shifting towards specialists in machine learning (ML), natural language processing (NLP), data science, and AI engineering.
The Impact of AI on the Demand for IT Professionals
With rapid digitalization and the expansion of AI solutions, demand for IT professionals in the region is changing in several key directions:
Growth in AI DevOps and MLOps Roles
Managing AI models in production requires skills different from traditional DevOps practices. Organizations are looking for experts who know how to implement, test, and optimize AI systems in real-world environments.
Increased Demand for AI and ML Experts
Companies in the Western Balkans are increasingly recognizing the value of AI and machine learning (ML) in optimizing business processes, data analysis, and automation. As a result, there is a growing demand for machine learning engineers, data scientists, and AI architects.
Reduced Demand for Traditional Software Engineers
AI-assisted coding tools such as GitHub Copilot are reducing the need for junior developers to perform repetitive tasks. This may lead to a decrease in demand for entry-level software development roles, with more emphasis expected on specialized and senior positions.
Rising Importance of AI Ethics and Regulation
As AI becomes more integrated into business and public systems, there is an increasing need for experts who understand the legal and ethical aspects of AI technology.
Changes in IT Workforce
Alongside changes in demand, AI is also influencing the supply side of the IT market:
Automation of Traditional Roles
AI is taking over repetitive tasks in software testing, customer support, and database administration. IT professionals working in these fields need to transition into more complex roles that require creativity, critical thinking, and advanced expertise.
Reskilling and Upskilling the Existing Workforce
IT professionals in the Western Balkans must recognize the need for continuous learning to remain competitive. Courses in AI and data science are becoming increasingly popular, and universities and private training centers must adapt their programs to meet new market needs.
Freelancing and the AI-Driven Gig Economy
A growing number of IT professionals are turning to freelancing and AI tools to boost productivity. These tools allow individuals to optimize their work, reduce software development time, and enhance competitiveness.
How Companies in the Western Balkans are Adapting?
Investing in AI Solutions and Employee Training
IT companies need to invest more in developing internal AI solutions to enhance productivity. At the same time, they should organize internal training programs to empower their teams to work with AI.
Adapting the Education System
Universities and training centers should revise curricula to include AI in their programs, ensuring future generations of IT professionals in the Western Balkans are better prepared for the AI revolution.
What Does the Future Bring?
Looking ahead, it is clear that artificial intelligence will continue to shape the IT industry in the Western Balkans. The region has the potential to become a significant AI hub in Europe, especially if it leverages its resources and the motivation of young professionals. However, this requires coordinated efforts from all sectors: the education system, the private sector, and government institutions.
Companies that adapt in time and invest in developing AI competencies within their teams will gain a competitive advantage. Those who ignore AI trends risk stagnation and loss of competitiveness, both domestically and internationally.
Conclusion
The impact of artificial intelligence on the supply and demand in the IT industry of the Western Balkans is undeniable. While AI opens doors to new opportunities and careers, it also requires adaptation from both companies and IT professionals. Those who invest in continuous learning and embrace new technologies will be better positioned to benefit from the AI transformation and secure their future in the dynamic world of IT. Given the increasing efficiency in software development through AI solutions, the demand for IT workers is expected to decline, meaning only those who keep up with trends will remain competitive.
AI won’t replace all IT workers, but those who don’t keep up with the trends certainly will be replaced.
