What CTOs Are Looking For In Developers in 2025

The role of a software developer is evolving rapidly. By 2025, new technologies, workplace trends, and rising expectations will reshape what CTOs expect from candidates. Developers who thrive will need more than just coding skills—they’ll need to adapt to a broader set of requirements.

This article explores the top skills, qualities, and experiences CTOs will prioritize when hiring developers in 2025.

1. Proficiency in AI and Automation

AI tools are now standard in software development. By 2025, CTOs will expect developers to know how to use AI for coding, debugging, and project optimization. Tools like GitHub Copilot or OpenAI Codex won’t replace developers but will require them to work alongside AI effectively.

Requirements

• AI Familiarity: Developers should know how to integrate AI tools into their workflow.
• Automation Skills: Automating repetitive tasks, such as testing and deployment, will be essential.
• AI Ethics Awareness: Developers will need to understand the ethical implications of AI systems they build.

2. Cross-Functional Collaboration

The days of developers working in silos are over. CTOs now value professionals who can collaborate with teams outside of engineering, such as marketing, product, and design. Strong communication skills will be just as important as technical expertise.

Requirements

• Business Understanding: Developers should grasp how their work impacts the company’s goals.
• Teamwork: The ability to work effectively with non-technical stakeholders is critical.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to shift priorities based on feedback from cross-functional teams.

3. Expertise in Cloud-Native Development

Cloud computing continues to dominate, and developers must master cloud-native tools and frameworks. CTOs will favor candidates who can build scalable, secure, and efficient applications tailored for the cloud.

Requirements

• Proficiency in Platforms: Familiarity with AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud is a must.
• Containerization Skills: Experience with Docker and Kubernetes for deployment and orchestration.
• Cloud Security: Developers must know how to build secure applications in distributed environments.

4. Focus on Cybersecurity

With the rise of cyber threats, CTOs will demand developers with a strong understanding of secure coding practices. Security-first development will be a baseline expectation for all software roles

Requirements

• Secure Code Practices: Knowledge of frameworks and techniques to prevent vulnerabilities.
• Threat Awareness: The ability to identify and mitigate potential risks during development.
• Compliance Knowledge: Understanding global and regional cybersecurity regulations.

5. Mastery of Emerging Technologies

By 2025, technologies like blockchain, Web3, and extended reality (XR) will be part of mainstream development. CTOs will look for candidates who have a grasp of these cutting-edge fields and can experiment with innovative solutions.

Requirements

• Broad Knowledge: Awareness of trends like the metaverse, decentralized apps, and quantum computing.
• Hands-On Experience: Practical experience with APIs and platforms in emerging tech spaces.
• Willingness to Learn: A proactive attitude toward staying updated on new technologies.

6. Strong Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

As projects grow in complexity, developers must excel at solving problems creatively and under pressure. CTOs are seeking candidates who can approach challenges with a mix of logic, innovation, and resilience.

Requirements

• Analytical Skills: The ability to break down problems and find effective solutions.
• Big-Picture Thinking: Seeing how small coding decisions affect the overall project.
• Agility: Quickly pivoting strategies when issues arise.

7. Emphasis on Continuous Learning

The tech industry moves fast, and staying relevant requires ongoing education. CTOs value developers who invest in themselves through certifications, courses, or participation in tech communities.

Requirements

• Up-to-Date Skills: Developers should stay current with tools and frameworks.
• Certifications: Industry-recognized credentials in areas like AI, cloud, or security.
• Community Involvement: Engagement in hackathons, open-source contributions, or industry events.

The 2025 Developer Profile, According to CTOs

The role of a developer in 2025 will go far beyond writing code. CTOs are looking for well-rounded professionals who can use AI tools, collaborate across teams, and adapt to new technologies and challenges.

To stand out, developers must embrace continuous learning, develop a broad skill set, and stay adaptable in a changing industry. For CTOs, finding these candidates will mean hiring not just for technical ability but for mindset and future potential.

Are you ready to hire the next generation of developers? Let us help you find candidates with the skills and mindset to thrive in 2025. Contact us today at sales@kenility.com to learn more!