Diverse capabilities: Key to thriving in an evolving tech landscape

In today’s fast-changing job market, a linear career path is no longer a necessity—or even the norm.

At the recent STACK Developer Conference 2024, hosted by GovTech Singapore, my session focused on how building diverse capabilities, both technical and non-technical, is essential for adapting and thriving in a landscape reshaped by technological disruption and digital transformation.

The rising demand for adaptability in a tech-driven world

Technological advancements like artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI are reshaping how complex problems are solved—from delivering public services to designing people-centric digital solutions.

As technology rapidly evolves, professionals across all sectors must cultivate capabilities that bridge innovation with practical impact.

Automation and AI are poised to redefine industries, with roles disappearing and new opportunities emerging. In this shifting landscape, capabilities—not specific roles—will determine career success.

This dynamic is evident in Thoughtworks’ work with clients navigating enterprise modernisation, digital platforms, and AI-driven transformation. The demand for professionals with strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and strong interpersonal abilities has never been greater.

Combining technical expertise with a deep understanding of business needs creates lasting value for organizations.

To subscribe to the GovInsider bulletin click here.

Flexibility and intentionality: A career blueprint

Career aspirations are deeply personal and often evolve over time. A decade ago, you might have envisioned yourself in a different industry or role than where you are today.

Creating a flexible capability plan—a roadmap for the next 6 to 12 months that identifies areas for growth—can help professionals stay adaptable while working toward long-term goals.

Transitions across roles or industries often provide opportunities to diversify skill sets. Intentional career moves, guided by strengths, passions, and organisational needs, allow professionals to contribute meaningfully while positioning themselves for future challenges.

Building tech and non-tech synergy

Cross-disciplinary expertise has become a cornerstone of leadership in a time of rapid digital acceleration. Leaders who can bridge the gap between business processes, client needs, and technical solutions bring immense value to organisations.

Developing capabilities in both technical and non-technical domains prepares professionals to tackle complex, evolving challenges.

Learning at the intersection of practice and innovation

The 70-20-10 learning model is an effective approach to building diverse capabilities:

• 70% from on-the-job experiences that challenge and stretch skills.
• 20% from interactions with peers and mentors who provide feedback and guidance.
• 10% from formal training programs to solidify foundational knowledge.

At Thoughtworks, we embrace this model to cultivate a culture of continuous learning, enabling our teams to stay ahead in areas like AI ethics, cloud-native architecture, and agile delivery.

By offering employees opportunities to work across varied projects, we not only match talent with demand but also prepare individuals to tackle future challenges and drive innovation in an ever-evolving landscape.

To subscribe to the GovInsider bulletin click here.

Adapting for a digital-first future

As technology evolves, the ability to connect the dots across disciplines will define future leaders.

Whether a developer, strategist, or business analyst, building capabilities that span technical and non-technical domains equips professionals to drive innovation and solve complex challenges.

A commitment to lifelong learning and embracing change ensures not just survival in uncertain times but also success in a rapidly evolving digital-first world.

To watch my full talk, click here.

Jessie Xia is the Chief Information Officer at Thoughtworks, where she provides leadership for the continued development of global internal information, and digital technology strategy and initiatives throughout Thoughtworks.