The world of software engineering is undergoing a seismic shift, driven primarily by the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence. Once a bastion of stability and well-paying positions, the profession faces unprecedented challenges, resulting in widespread layoffs and a redefinition of skill sets. As engineers grapple with a landscape transformed by AI, many are revisiting the basics, seeking new skills, and exploring collective action to secure their futures.
The Changing Landscape of Software Engineering
In 2022, software engineering was hailed as one of the most lucrative professions in the United States, with an average salary exceeding £200,000. Talented developers were highly sought after, with companies battling over top talent through hefty bonuses and attractive packages. However, the arrival of AI technologies, exemplified by OpenAI’s ChatGPT, has sparked a wave of job losses, with over 600,000 tech workers affected since its launch.
According to the New York Fed, the unemployment rate for computer science graduates rose to 7% in 2024, while the underemployment rate climbed to over 19%. Moreover, tech job postings plummeted by 36% from 2020 to 2025, signalling a stark shift in demand within the industry.
Adapting to the AI Era
Many engineers, like Matt, a software developer commuting daily to Pawling, New York, are finding themselves in a precarious position. Once deeply immersed in coding and problem-solving, Matt now spends a significant portion of his time evaluating AI-generated code. “I’m trying not to leverage AI where I can,” he shares, as he endeavours to maintain his coding skills.
The sentiment resonates across the industry. Engineers are feeling increasingly anxious about their roles as AI reshapes their responsibilities. Bouke Klein Teeselink, an economics professor at King’s College London, notes, “AI is hugely augmenting what it means to be a software engineer.” The focus is shifting from writing code to evaluating AI’s output, raising concerns about the future relevance of traditional coding skills.
The Human Element Still Matters
Despite the challenges posed by AI, experts assert that human software engineers remain vital. David Malan, a computer science professor at Harvard, highlights that the costs associated with AI development will necessitate a balance between human oversight and machine efficiency. In a world where OpenAI reportedly spent £8 billion on model development, the demand for skilled engineers to oversee AI operations is likely to endure.
George Dover, a software engineer from Portland, is one such individual who has embraced this new reality. After being laid off in late 2024, he pivoted by becoming a substitute teacher while simultaneously honing his skills in AI-assisted coding. “The quality has to be rigorously tested,” he emphasises, reflecting his commitment to mastering the interplay between human expertise and AI capabilities. His perseverance paid off when he landed a new role focused on AI, illustrating the potential for adaptation within the profession.
Collective Action in the Face of Uncertainty
As uncertainty looms over the tech industry, a growing number of software engineers are banding together to advocate for their rights and future opportunities. Kaitlin Cort, a former engineer who witnessed firsthand the impact of AI on her role, founded What We Will, a resource centre designed to support tech workers navigating layoffs and the complexities of AI integration.
Cort’s initiative speaks to a broader trend within the profession, as engineers seek solidarity in the face of disruption. “There’s a lot of need right now,” she notes, as collective action gains momentum among workers concerned about their future. The urgency of unionisation and support networks has never been clearer, with numerous engineers reaching out for guidance in these turbulent times.
Why it Matters
The evolution of software engineering in the age of AI is not merely a professional shift; it represents a fundamental transformation of how technology intersects with human labour. As engineers adapt to new roles, the growing emphasis on AI literacy and collaboration signals a need for ongoing education and support. The future of the profession hinges on the ability of its practitioners to embrace change, advocate for their rights, and redefine the value of their skills in an increasingly automated world. The stakes are high, not just for software engineers, but for the fabric of the tech industry as a whole.