I've been mentoring new developers and for the first time, I'm starting to question if the programming path I'm encouraging them to take is the right one. As a longtime Python user working in a major tech company, I've witnessed the shifts in the industry, but 2026 feels different. With the rise of AI tools taking on many programming tasks, I'm concerned whether we are simply preparing these newbies to maintain an outdated language. I'd love to get insights from those who are trying to break into the field now. Does having in-depth Python knowledge still open doors, or are companies just looking for people who can connect AI components? I'd like a straightforward take on what the experience of junior developers is like today. Is putting effort into mastering syntax and architecture still worthwhile, or is programming becoming less of a distinct skill? How much of your time daily is spent on logical problem-solving versus managing machine outputs? I'm eager to understand if my guidance is paving the way for lasting careers or just temporary gigs, with the idea of 'programmer' fading away.
5 Answers
I think learning is still crucial. Even with AI, there will be times when things go wrong, and if you can read and understand code, you'll be ahead of the game. It definitely helps when promoting AI tools effectively too.
Absolutely, don’t depend solely on AI! Learning Python, along with frameworks like PyTorch and TensorFlow is valuable and will pay off.
But is reading code going to be necessary in a couple of years as AI tools get better?
Great point! AI can still produce mistakes, and knowing programming helps you judge its output. The job landscape is evolving, but coding is still a valuable skill, and the demand for higher-level design thinking is growing.
True for now, but what happens to coding jobs in 2027-2028?
I graduated in 2021 and entered a non-tech field, assuming I could return to programming later as a solid skill. Now, I feel like I might be left behind as AI can churn out code effortlessly. I'm considering going back to school to learn new skills.
But do you really need to reskill? Will those skills even be relevant two years from now?
If coding is what you love, no hype around AI can deter you. If you don’t enjoy it, why spend time managing an AI?
Do you really think we'll need to know how to read code in just two years with the way things are going?