What do you do if automation and artificial intelligence threaten your computer engineering career?

The landscape of software development is constantly evolving, often in ways that exceed our expectations. In recent years, the rapid advancement of AI has been particularly remarkable. To remain relevant in the future, it's crucial for developers to evolve alongside these changes. However, our value as developers extends far beyond our familiarity with few technologies or programming languages. At the core, we are problem solvers. The essence of our role lies in our ability to approach challenges with innovative thinking and find effective solutions. As long as there are problems to solve, the need for skilled problem solvers will endure. The key is to embrace AI to enhance our problem-solving capabilities and propel them to new heights.

Many years ago when computers were first used in businesses, a college professor of mine told us a personal story how in his office some employees resisted the change computers brought, while some embraced and learned how to use the computer to their success. He commented, looking back, most all that embraced the new technology excelled and today have secure high paying jobs. Those that did not remained mediocre employees. His advice is still true today, you want to excel in your field, become the expert in the new technologies. In my 36 years as an engineer, I have seen the same philosophy proven true. To secure your future, become the expert in and with the new technologies. Nothing will secure and grow your future any faster.

If automation and artificial intelligence (AI) start to threaten your computer engineering career, there are several strategies you can adopt to navigate these changes effectively. The key is to leverage your existing skills while adapting and growing in areas where human insight and creativity are irreplaceable. Adapting to the evolving landscape of computer engineering in the age of AI and automation is about staying informed, being proactive in acquiring new skills, and looking for opportunities to apply your expertise in ways that machines cannot replicate.

Changes are inevitable, challenges must be used as a catalyst to enhance and improve knowledge and understanding, to incorporate appropriate skills and applications. Enhancing added value that is difficult to replicate.

I would like to add embracing change & finding a way to balance & adapt the change in a way which can mutually benifit every system & individual is the ultimate solution to tackle the threat it poses. Individuals & organisations need to create a middle ground where both can co exists . As it's said it's all about approch & perspective one emraces when faced with a. Change . A knife can be used as a help in kitchen or to kill someone . It about how we embrace the knife which will give the right conclusion.

The advent of AI brings significant shifts in roles for software developers, particularly frontend engineers, as they merge with designers and AI. To stay at the core of software development, focusing on the bigger picture is crucial. Skills like DevOps and system design, once reserved for experienced developers, are now essential for everyone. With AI handling coding tasks, the demand is for those who can design scalable systems. Moreover, learning machine learning is becoming a prerequisite for every software developer. Similarly, DevOps knowledge ensures future-proofing, as the fusion of deployment and development emerges as the future. Developers must prioritize the broader perspective over mere lines of code.

I think AI helps to be one more productive in the good way. Menial tasks that used to take hours in research slowing down the workflow is now optimized

I wholeheartedly support continous learning. I would, however, temper that with this: understand those roles that those certifications and training are promising are currently filled with the folks who had already been studying in that direction. Combine that with the wave of computer science oriented graduates. What you choose to learn should complement and enhance what you already know. *coughs* Synergy *coughs* is what you will be looking for in terms of what to learn. Something that will allow you to alter course vs abandon ship with regards to your career. I think marketing folks would refer to this as finding your niche. AI is here to stay. AI continously learns. How do you value add going forward?

Funny story, I actually went an AI oriented networking activity recently. Was an interesting experience as the majority of the people tended to be a data scientists, ML engineers, etc. Networking helps one see what one might not otherwise have seen. Encounter opportunities as well. Networking can be a guide post to what to focus learning about. Prompt guardrails? Improving on LLM inference times? Tools and libraries to make available to simplify and improve the working environment? Not only to build a list of contacts for future opportunities... but also a way to get a sense of what direction the field is moving in. Get a sense of what pain points exist that you can solve.

This goes back to the mention of the Niche previously and the feeling out what the pain points are, regarding the current and near-future state of things. While the prompt here notes: "... demand a level of creativity and decision-making that's difficult to replicate with machines." I feel that statement is either no longer true or will soon be no longer true. It isn't a matter of the industry simply shifting. It is that the industry is being driven in different directions by this technology. It doesn't take but a quick search to see the many creative and human-decision-making roles being quickly taken over in organizations open to the tech. Find a specialty or complementing skill, but don't aim for something "that only humans can do".

Diversifying your skill set is crucial for remaining competitive and adaptable in today's ever-changing landscape. By exploring different tech stacks beyond traditional roles, you gain a understanding of how various technologies integrate. This not only enhances your problem-solving abilities but also opens doors to new opportunities in diverse industries. For example, proficiency in multiple programming languages enables you to tackle projects efficiently, while knowledge of related domains like data science or cybersecurity strengthens your analytical skills. Embracing diversity in your skill set not only future-proofs your career but also positions you as a versatile professional ready to drive innovation across different domains.

Implementation of AI & Automation should open a huge scope for defining constructive use cases, quality assurance & further improvements as these things are less likely replaceable by any machine in this rapidly changing world

Innovation is the need of the hour , a correct use of the blend of AI & Automation can solve a lot Human issues which are complex or unsolved till now. Being from computer science it brings an unique opportunity to take up the mantle to bring change which can effect the life of lot like in medical domain , a small innovation can solve a big mystery , break longstanding barriers. We live in a world filled with machines & moving towards a future dominated by machines . It's upto us how constantly we are innovating solutions which would be the foundation for our future generations and their happiness.

Once upon a time Computers were banned in over populated countries like India & China fearing job loss..and rest is history Same way AI & Automation should reduce repetitive, boring & hard work while creating unlimited new opportunities for innovative thinking in extra time freed by use of machines ??

If automation and AI threaten your career, it's crucial to adapt and stay ahead. Consider upskilling or reskilling in areas that complement or are less susceptible to automation. Additionally, focus on developing uniquely human skills like creativity, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking, which are harder to replicate with technology. Networking and staying informed about industry trends can also help you navigate potential changes in your field.