When considering new hires, 80% of corporate executives prioritize skills over degrees, with half planning to increase freelance hiring this year, according to a new study from freelancing platform Upwork. The study, released this week, showed “unprecedented growth” in specialized AI skills, which have surged 220% year-over-year. Another problem, however, is the skills needed to keep up with AI’s advances are constantly changing.

“What we’re witnessing isn’t just a talent shortage – it’s a fundamental transformation in how technology roles are structured,” Mitchell said.

Forward-thinking organizations are creating hybrid roles that combine AI skills with business strategy, reimagining technology careers for the AI era, according to Mitchell; 92% of organizations are redesigning technical roles to include AI skills and strategic thinking. Meanwhile, 81% of CIOs are adjusting hiring strategies, focusing on cloud computing and sustainability.