#Japan #Minato #Paiza #Ryohei Katayama #IT Engineers

The Evolution of IT Engineers in the AI Era

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape numerous industries, the IT sector is not immune to its influence. Ryohei Katayama, the CEO of paiza, an innovative job platform for IT engineers, recently shared insights on this transformative period at the HR Summit 2025 ONLINE. In his presentation titled “Why Skill-Based Talent is Essential: AI Accelerating the Work Styles and Talent Acquisition Strategies of IT Engineers,” he emphasized the indispensable role that IT engineers will play in advancing technology.

The Importance of IT Engineers

Contrary to popular belief that AI will render IT engineers obsolete, Katayama argues that they are more vital than ever. The seminar highlights the notion that the profession will evolve rather than diminish, moving from a focus on implementation to strategic design. This transformation requires a rethinking of the skill sets necessary for success in an AI-driven world.

A Shift in Skill Requirements

The emergence of generative AI has sparked fears around job displacement among IT roles. However, Katayama asserts that businesses still need competent IT engineers to navigate complex projects that demand creativity and problem-solving abilities. In this rapidly changing landscape, IT engineers must adapt to new tools and frameworks while maintaining their core skills in software development and system architecture.

Focusing on a design-centric approach allows IT engineers to not only apply their technical ability but also collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive innovation. Companies will seek engineers who can leverage AI to enhance product development rather than replace the human touch in technology creation.

Talent Acquisition and Development Strategies

Katayama elaborated on effective strategies that companies should adopt for recruiting and nurturing talent in the AI era. From a short-term perspective, firms should focus on immediate hiring needs, identifying candidates with current up-to-date skills. For long-term success, nurturing talent through continuous training and development programs is critical.

Actions for Companies

1. Identify Skill Gaps: Companies need to regularly evaluate the skills of their workforce and understand the industry trends to identify future skill requirements.
2. Invest in Training: Offering ongoing training and development programs will help employees stay competitive. This includes workshops, courses, and mentorship opportunities focusing on both AI and non-AI relevant skills.
3. Embrace Diversity: Different perspectives drive creativity. Companies should aim for a diverse workforce that can approach problems from various angles and innovate.

paiza's Role in the Industry

Established in 2012, paiza has emerged as a vital platform for IT engineers, supporting them in their career transitions and skills development. With over 890,000 registered users as of June 2025, paiza offers a unique skill verification program called the “paiza Skill Check.” This program allows engineers to demonstrate their capabilities and enhances their employability by matching them with over 4,700 companies.

paiza also provides a variety of services designed to cater to different stages of an IT engineer’s career, whether they are fresh graduates, experienced professionals, or freelancers. These include job matching services, skills development courses, and tailored transition programs for individuals looking to switch careers.

Ryohei Katayama’s Vision

Ryohei Katayama believes in the motto “Unique abilities change the world” and aims to foster an environment where both individuals and companies experience continuous growth. By leveraging innovative platforms like paiza, they strive to create a fertile ground for talent acquisition and skills enhancement in the tech industry.

As we enter an unprecedented era fueled by AI, Katayama’s insights and his role at paiza provide a roadmap for understanding the evolving landscape of IT engineering and the essential strategies for leveraging human talent in conjunction with technological advancements.

With these developments on the horizon, it’s crucial for companies and aspiring IT engineers to engage with the insights offered by leaders like Katayama.

Conclusion

As the conversation around AI continues, Katayama’s message is clear: the future of IT engineers is not about replacement but rather about evolution. Companies willing to adapt and invest in their engineers' skills can thrive amidst the rapid transformation brought on by AI, ensuring a collaborative and innovative future within the IT realm.