5G refers to the fifth generation of the global cellular wireless network the technology that powers your smartphone, your apps, you modem, and pretty much every other digital device on the planet. First came 1G, then 2G, 3G, and 4G (the current generation, for most users).
But 5G represents a much bigger leap in wireless computing power than anything that’s come before. “It’s not simply another G,” says Amol Phadke, global network practice lead at Accenture, “It has the potential to completely disrupt the way we work and live.” And, as always, with disruption comes opportunity.
That’s why 5G careers and 5G qualifications have become so important. Learning 5G isn’t just about becoming savvy with some new technology. It’s about building a future-proof career in a brave new digital world. And thanks to RMIT Online, it’s open to everybody.
Starting a 5G career now is like becoming a web developer in 1993. Although it might take some time, worldwide adoption of 5G technology is pretty much inevitable it’s faster, more reliable and more powerful than anything currently on the market (approximately 100 times faster than current 4G networks, according to experts). Countries like America, Japan and the U.K. are already busy building 5G infrastructure. All that’s missing is a well-trained, 5G-ready workforce.
Here are some careers that will draw on 5G technology:
The telecommunications industry is predicting a huge surge in 5G careers over the next 10 to 20 years. Reports suggest that, by 2035, 5G technology will be worth $13.2 trillion and support 22.3 million jobs around the world. 5G careers are going to be more crucial than ever.
While 5G-specific careers are still in their infancy, going by current trends, they’re going to be quite lucrative. Senior Solution Architects already earn around $156,000 in Australia, while Network Engineers benchmark at $96,000 per annum. The potential for future wage growth is huge.
5G will affect nearly every industry on Earth, including smart phones, driverless cars, remote work, machine learning, streaming platforms and the Internet of Things. Learning 5G technologies now, before they become truly mainstream, is a great way to future-proof your CV.
5G doesn’t just open doors within the telecommunications industry (Telstra, Optus and Vodafone are all building 5G networks in Australia) it will be relevant for all businesses, all industries, and all countries. By learning 5G, you’re tapping into global employment network.
Some experience in network engineering or solution architecture will obviously help when learning 5G, but they’re not necessary. Anyone can switch careers and jump into 5G technologies. You don’t need any specific experience or knowledge to get started.
5G will probably disrupt the labour market in ways we can’t understand yet. Automation will be the end of some traditional careers, particularly in retail and manufacturing, but it will also give rise to others the world is going to need more network engineers, solution architects, VR programmers and machine learning experts. It’ll also need more business leaders who understand 5G’s potential – and its risks.
Here are just a few 5G careers you might consider:
Our curriculum is purpose-built for online study, and you don’t need any special skills to get started. Each unit combines interactive webinars, 1-on-1 tutorials, group work and practical tasks. We designed these courses alongside some of the best engineers, programmers and solution architects Australia.
Here’s an idea of what you’ll need:
Ready to learn 5G? This is the best place to start. Read as much as you can. Ask questions. Contact one of our RMIT Online course counsellors.
RMIT Online is one of Australia’s top 5G training providers. We offer a range of 5G related courses depending on your career goals and experience. You can learn about 5G online, at your own pace, with plenty of support from expert mentors. Each course was co-designed with industry.
5G technology is going to affect almost every industry. Once you’ve got a solid understanding of 5G, you can broaden your knowledge into all sorts of areas. Want to learn about Cloud Solutions or Cybersecurity? Check out our related courses below.
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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.
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