The demand for data professionals in Northern Ireland has surged in recent years, with companies across various industries investing heavily in data-driven decision-making. As businesses look to harness the power of data, the need for skilled professionals has never been higher.

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What exactly are employers looking for?

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1. Programming and Scripting

Being proficient in programming languages is fundamental for data professionals. Companies are particularly looking for expertise in:

• Python, SQL, and Java – Essential for handling data pipelines, querying databases, and building scalable solutions.

• Scripting languages – Knowledge of Bash or PowerShell is a plus, especially for automating data tasks.

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2. Data Storage and Management

Data professionals need to manage and organise vast amounts of information efficiently. Skills in:

• SQL databases (PostgreSQL, MySQL, Microsoft SQL Server) and NoSQL solutions like MongoDB are highly valued.

• Data warehousing technologies – Employers favour candidates with experience in Amazon Redshift, Google BigQuery, or Snowflake.

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3. Big Data Technologies

As businesses work with larger datasets, expertise in big data tools is a game-changer. In-demand skills include:

• Distributed computing frameworks such as Apache Spark and Hadoop.

• ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes and tools like Apache Airflow or Talend.

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4. Cloud Computing

With most companies moving their data infrastructure to the cloud, employers are seeking candidates with:

• Experience in AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud and their respective data services.

• Knowledge of serverless architectures like AWS Lambda or Google Cloud Functions.

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5. Collaboration and Problem-Solving

 Beyond technical skills, companies want professionals who can work well with others and think critically. Key attributes include:

• The ability to collaborate with data scientists, analysts, and software developers.

• Strong analytical skills to optimise data workflows and troubleshoot issues efficiently.

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Opportunities for Training and Upskilling

Given the skills gap in data engineering, there are several ways to upskill and stay competitive in Northern Ireland:

• Higher Education – Institutions like Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University offer specialised courses in data science and engineering.

• Online Learning – Platforms like Coursera, Udacity, and DataCamp provide industry-recognised certifications and flexible learning options.

• Government-Funded Training – Initiatives supported by the Department for the Economy focus on enhancing digital skills, making upskilling more accessible.

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With the growing reliance on data, companies in Northern Ireland are looking for professionals who can not only handle data but also turn it into meaningful insights. No matter what stage you're at in your Data career, investing in these skills will open doors to exciting job opportunities. If you’re considering a move into data, now is the perfect time to upskill and take advantage of this booming industry!