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ZDNET's key takeaways
Experts fear automation could mean fewer routes to the top.
In a competitive labor market, would-be digital leaders must stand out.
Exploit opportunities, collaborate with your peers, and take responsibility.
There's general agreement that the rise of AI means technology has never been more important to the business. However, the central role of digital and data doesn't necessarily mean IT professionals have increased opportunities to rise into senior management positions.
Experts are concerned that the increased capabilities of gen AI and agents could mean that many tasks previously fulfilled by professionals are automated. Add increased decentralization for IT decision-making, and what was once a structured climb on the career ladder from junior developer up to CIO has become significantly more complicated.
Also: Dreading AI job cuts? 5 ways to future-proof your career - before it's too late
However, what's already clear is that companies will still require talented technologists to keep a human in the loop and oversee digital transformation initiatives. If you want to position yourself correctly to snare one of these roles in a competitive labor market, here are five areas to focus on in 2026.
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