Muscat – In the contemporary landscape of the labour market, we are witnessing a transformative wave reshaping traditional job roles. The emergence of ‘new-collar’ jobs has become a defining feature, challenging conventional norms and redefining the skills valued by employers.

Traditionally, the job market has been dichotomised into blue-collar and white-collar roles. However, the advent of technology, coupled with the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI), has given rise to a new category of employment known as new-collar jobs. Coined nearly a decade ago by Ginni Rometty, former CEO of IBM, the term ‘new-collar’ encapsulates positions that require advanced skills without mandating a traditional college degree.

Tech industry behemoths such as Google, IBM and Amazon are leading the charge in reshaping the employment landscape. They are actively seeking talent for new-collar roles, recognising that relevant skills often trump formal degrees. IBM data suggests that new-collar workers already account for about 15% of IBM’s US hiring. Examples abound, with positions like cloud computing technicians and services delivery specialists being emblematic of this shift.

While a traditional college degree remains valuable, practical skills acquired through targeted vocational training programmes, especially in specific fields such as healthcare, engineering, software and technology is gaining prominence.

The synergy between AI and new-collar jobs is particularly noteworthy. As AI becomes increasingly integral across industries, the demand for individuals with skills in data analysis and IT is soaring. A research conducted at Columbia Business School reveals that companies investing in AI are not eliminating jobs; rather, they are fostering a demand for new-collar workers who can navigate the evolving technological landscape.

Oman faces challenges and opportunities with the emergence of new-collar jobs. Successfully navigating this shift requires careful consideration of several key factors.

Not adapting to the shift towards new-collar opportunities may leave Oman with an unprepared workforce for future job demands. Consequently, investing in tailored training programmes that address the specific needs of these roles is imperative.

Raising awareness about the value of technical training and the potential for lucrative careers in new-collar positions is crucial. Collaborations between educational institutions and industries can help bridge the awareness gap and ensure the workforce is well-prepared for the changing job landscape.

It is important to foster partnerships with global technology companies to establish training programmes that align with the demands of new-collar jobs. Incentivising organisations to prioritise skills over degrees and creating an ecosystem conducive to the growth of new-collar opportunities will be essential.

In navigating the currents of the evolving job market, Oman stands at a crossroads. The nation has the opportunity to not only adapt but to actively shape its workforce into one that is resilient, forward thinking and well-aligned with the demands of the future. Embracing the new-collar revolution will position Oman as a competitive player in the global job market, ensuring a prosperous future for its workforce.

Syed Adil Abbas