10 reasons many are pursuing a career in blockchain and why you should too!
The blockchain and cryptocurrency ecosystem has experienced a momentous wave of growth over the past several years, as individuals from all corners of the globe with a diversity of skill sets and interests have found something intriguing about the space.
As they make their way deeper in to the “rabbit hole”, many develop a true passion for the exciting developments taking place in the space, and the social impact being done. Despite this, many decide to stay on the sidelines and view blockchain and crypto as more of a hobby. This could be for many reasons including uncertainty of where to get started, the career prospects, and if their skill set is truly a match for the space.
So, today, I will highlight ten reasons why you should consider a career in this dynamic and exciting space!
1. Sector growth
As mentioned above, there has been a momentous wave of growth in the space in the past several years, and it is expected that this growth will continue in to the foreseeable future. In fact, blockchain spending by corporations is expected to grow drastically to $20 billion per year by the end of 2024. With a massive influx of cash entering the space, it bodes well for the career prospects.
2. There is currently a talent shortage in the space
The cryptocurrency community is currently facing a talent shortage due to the rapid growth in the space. That’s right, blockchain is growing at such a fast pace that there are not enough workers to fill positions. So, if you decide to pursue a career in blockchain, you will be entering an in-demand field with great career prospects.
3. It pays well!
According to Zip Recruiter, at the time of this post, the average annual pay for a Blockchain Developer in the United States is $154,550 a year, or $74.30 an hour. Not too shabby!
4. Career Flexibility
Working as a blockchain developer could provide you with the opportunity to work remotely or as a freelancer, giving you greater career flexibility and independence. Many are dreading the potential return to the office in the near future, and making the career change to becoming a blockchain developer could present you with opportunities for flexibility and to continue working from home.
5. The crypto and blockchain space is truly global
The crypto and blockchain space is truly global in every sense of the word. In fact, the top twenty countries in Chainalysis’ Global Crypto Adoption Index represent all continents but Oceania (and of course Antarctica). According to this same index, the top ten countries are as follows:
Vietnam
India
Pakistan
Ukraine
Kenya
Nigeria
Venezuela
United States
Togo
Argentina
6. The space is becoming more diverse
Diversity in blockchain and crypto is rising, especially as it pertains to women working in the space. In fact, one study found that the number of women involved in the space is skyrocketing, with a 43% increase in the first quarter of 2020 alone.
Furthermore, there are dozens, if not hundreds of amazing groups, collectives, and projects working to promote diversity in the space through education, empowerment, and the facilitation of connections. I highlight some of these amazing organizations in a blog post here.
7. A variety of career directions
Blockchain-based technologies are being implemented in a variety of different sectors including health care, supply chain management, international development, finance, e-commerce, insurance, gaming, art, and more! So, if you do decide to pursue a career in blockchain, chances are you will have the opportunity to find work that aligns with your interests, passions, and experience.
If coding isn’t your strong suit, that’s okay! There are plenty of opportunities for those specializing in communications, project management, law, partnership development, finance, social impact, and everything in between!
8. Universities are investing in blockchain
If you are looking to get a formal education in the space, dozens of top tier universities are now offering courses in blockchain and crypto including but not limited to Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cornell University, University of California, Berkeley, Stanford University, Harvard University, Columbia University, and many, many, more.
A number of universities have also set up blockchain initiatives and student groups including Stanford, Harvard, and Berkley, among others.
9. Opportunities for free education
It’s great that more Universities are getting on board with blockchain and crypto, but it’s important to also recognize that University is out of reach for many and isn’t always the best option when you can get a quality education online at a low cost.
Maybe it’s the open-source, collaborative nature of those in the crypto and blockchain space, as there are so many free educational resources to help you become a blockchain expert, including online courses, podcasts, e-books, and more! Check out my previous blog posts highlighting some of the great resources available in the space:
10. Opportunities for social impact
The career prospects and salary are great, but many also want an opportunity to have a meaningful social impact in their career. The good news is that there is a natural symbiosis between blockchain and the social sector.
We are seeing this in practice with hundreds of charities and non-profits beginning to accept cryptocurrency donations to support their social causes, including massive organizations such as UNICEF, Save the Children, and the American cancer society. Furthermore, there are many exciting blockchain-based projects currently underway that are having a positive impact by address complex challenges facing humanity. A list of some of these amazing projects can be found here.
Conclusion
While nothing is ever guaranteed, the career prospects in the blockchain space are fantastic, with a diversity of opportunities, great pay, flexibility, and the potential to take part in some truly meaningful projects. As the space continues to grow in to the future, now may be the time for you to make the transition to working in the blockchain and cryptocurrency ecosystem!
What are some other reasons to consider a career in the blockchain and cryptocurrency space? Tweet us at @Crypto_Altruism, we’d love to hear from you!
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