AI to Dominate Next Two Decades, Says Wipro CTO; Future IT Skills Set to Shift Dramatically

A top executive at Wipro has predicted that artificial intelligence will remain the defining force in the technology industry for at least the next two decades, reshaping business models, workforce requirements, and global competitiveness. The comments come amid accelerating adoption of AI across industries worldwide, as companies seek automation-driven efficiency and data-led decision-making advantages. The projection highlights how emerging technologies are not only transforming enterprise operations but also redefining the skills that professionals must develop to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

What the Decision Means- The executive’s outlook reinforces the growing consensus that AI is transitioning from a niche innovation to a foundational business capability. Enterprises are increasingly embedding machine learning, automation, and data analytics into core operations, from customer service and supply chain management to cybersecurity and financial forecasting.

For the IT services sector, the shift implies a gradual evolution away from traditional outsourcing models toward high-value consulting, AI integration, and platform-based solutions. Companies may need to invest more heavily in reskilling employees, building proprietary AI tools, and forming partnerships with technology providers.

The skills expected to gain importance include data science, prompt engineering, AI model deployment, cloud architecture, cybersecurity, and domain-specific digital expertise. Analysts suggest that professionals who combine technical knowledge with business understanding will likely have a competitive advantage in the job market.

The Legal/Political Angle- The expansion of AI capabilities also raises regulatory and policy considerations. Governments worldwide are working to establish frameworks covering data privacy, algorithmic accountability, intellectual property rights, and ethical AI use.

In India, policymakers are balancing the need to encourage innovation with safeguards around employment disruption and data protection. Workforce transformation policies, including digital training initiatives and education reforms, could play a significant role in determining how effectively countries adapt to AI-driven economic change.

From a political standpoint, technological leadership has become intertwined with national competitiveness, making AI investment a strategic priority for many governments.

Impact on Bilateral/Global Relations- AI development has emerged as a key area of international competition and collaboration. Countries with strong technology ecosystems are forming partnerships around research, semiconductor supply chains, and cloud infrastructure.

India’s IT services sector, which serves global clients, stands to benefit from increased AI adoption if companies can move up the value chain. Cross-border talent mobility and technology transfer agreements may become increasingly important as demand for specialized expertise grows.

At the same time, geopolitical tensions around data sovereignty and technology standards could shape how AI ecosystems evolve globally, influencing trade relationships and corporate strategies.

Market and Investor Reaction- Investor sentiment toward technology companies has increasingly been influenced by their AI readiness. Firms demonstrating strong AI capabilities, intellectual property development, and scalable platforms tend to attract higher valuations.

For IT services companies, the transition could lead to both opportunities and challenges. While AI-driven services may generate new revenue streams, automation could also reduce demand for certain legacy services, creating short-term uncertainty in earnings projections.

Financial markets are likely to reward companies that successfully reposition themselves toward high-growth AI segments while maintaining profitability during the transition period.

The Bottom Line The projection that AI will dominate the technology landscape for the next 20 years reflects a broader industry transformation already underway. As automation, data intelligence, and digital platforms reshape economies, the demand for advanced technical skills will continue to rise.

For businesses, governments, and professionals alike, the message is clear: long-term competitiveness will depend on the ability to adapt, invest in innovation, and build expertise aligned with the AI-driven future.