- Matt, a software engineer, uses his four-hour train commute to work on a personal browser-based game to maintain his coding skills, as his job now involves reviewing AI-generated code.
- AI is transforming software engineering rapidly, with Google reporting 75% of its code is AI-written, causing anxiety and prompting engineers to adapt or consider leaving the industry.
- Over 600,000 US tech workers lost jobs since ChatGPT's release in 2022, and unemployment for computer science graduates rose to 7% in 2024, reflecting industry turmoil.
- Experts predict coding skills may decline in value, while the ability to evaluate AI-generated code becomes crucial, shifting focus to problem-solving and system design.
- Software engineers are exploring new roles, using AI to build skills, or organizing for collective action, as seen with resource centers like What We Will supporting tech workers.
- Enrollment in computer science programs dropped recently, and the profession's appeal is waning, with some engineers contemplating career changes like opening a food truck.
- AI's high operational costs may prevent full automation, leading to a balanced future where engineers work alongside AI rather than being replaced entirely.