A Message of Hope and Caution for the Ongoing Tech Turmoil

Putting into Perspective the role of an Engineer in a Tech Company and the Importance of Treating Your Employees Better

Fellow Readers!

For my comeback article after a brief vacation that I took in June, I had planned for some hardcore engineering article like a blueprint for inhabiting Mars or a solution for cleaning space garbage (he said humbly). But turns out there is a more pressing concern that needs to be addressed back here on earth first - the delirious state of employees in the tech space at large, but more specifically, engineers. 

As a software engineer witnessing the turbulent shifts within our industry, especially here in Silicon Valley, has been disheartening. Job cuts, reduced amenities, and decreased pay have become alarmingly common. According to recent data, thousands of software engineering positions have been eliminated across major tech companies. The Big Tech are often the ones making the headlines. But the turmoil is much bigger than just the Big Tech. Everything that is ‘Tech’ is currently impacted in one way or another. 

What makes it worse is that these changes are happening at a time when the cost of living remains incredibly high, exacerbating the stress and uncertainty many of us feel.

Adding to this anxiety is the persistent narrative that AI/AGI will replace software engineers, rendering our skills obsolete. 

With all this going, I found it imperative that I share some brief notes in the hopes of helping engineers and tech employees persevere through this turmoil. And also use this opportunity to share a word of caution with my fellow founders and CEOs of tech companies across the world. 

Don’t worry, this will be a quick read. Just 5 notes that put into perspective what a software engineer is, why they cannot be easily replaced, and why the industry leaders need to abandon counterintuitive business practices and support their employees.

Artwork - The Human/AI Synergy

1. Engineering is More than Just Coding

What’s an engineer at a tech company? A coder. Wrong. Engineering is so much more than just writing lines of code. As engineers, we are architects of complex systems, problem solvers, and strategic thinkers. Our role involves designing and maintaining the intricate frameworks that power today’s digital world.

One of the most crucial aspects of our work is system architecture. This involves creating the blueprint for a system, ensuring that all components function seamlessly together. System architects need a deep understanding of both software and hardware, as well as the ability to foresee potential challenges and plan accordingly. This skill set is something that AI, in its current state, cannot replicate. Designing systems requires a level of creativity, foresight, and holistic understanding that goes beyond algorithmic processing.

Engineering involves continuous problem-solving. Whether it’s debugging a piece of code, optimising performance, or integrating new technologies into existing systems, engineers are constantly faced with challenges that require innovative solutions. This problem-solving aspect is where human ingenuity shines. While AI can assist by suggesting solutions or identifying issues, the nuanced decision-making and contextual understanding required to implement these solutions effectively are distinctly human capabilities.

Engineers play a vital role in strategic planning and project management. We are often responsible for guiding projects from conception through to completion, which involves coordinating teams, managing resources, and ensuring that all elements of a project align with the overall goals. This leadership aspect is another area where human skills are irreplaceable. Effective communication, empathy, and the ability to motivate and manage a team are essential components of successful project management that AI lacks.

Can AI do all of this today? Impossible. Can AI do all of this in 10 years? My take: not even by a long shot. Perhaps 2034 will prove me wrong. I just don’t see how. I do concede that the recent layoffs and changes in the tech industry highlight a pressing need for engineers who can wear multiple hats, i.e., those who can code, but also design, strategize, and lead. Sure, we need more skills as the industry evolves. But that does not prove how engineers are replaceable by any means despite the rise of AI.

2. Even if Engineering is Just Coding, AI Still Cannot Replace Engineers

Even if we were to narrow our perspective and consider software engineering as merely coding, the notion that AI could replace engineers is still far from reality. AI has made significant strides in recent years, particularly in automating certain coding tasks and improving efficiency. However, its limitations in addressing real-life coding problems are evident and substantial.

Recent research from Stanford University indicates that while AI can assist with code generation and bug detection, it struggles with understanding context and integrating solutions into complex, real-world systems. 

Moreover, AI's inability to fully comprehend and solve complex coding issues is evident in its performance on competitive programming platforms. AI models can solve basic coding challenges, their performance drops significantly on more complex problems that require deeper logical reasoning and understanding of intricate dependencies. 

Another limitation of AI in real-life coding is its dependency on high-quality training data. AI models learn from existing codebases, which means they can inadvertently propagate mistakes or suboptimal practices found in the data. Unlike human engineers, who can critically analyse and improve upon existing solutions, AI lacks the judgement to discern between good and bad practices. 

Real-world software development involves continuous adaptation to changing requirements and unforeseen challenges. Human engineers excel in environments that require flexibility and creative problem-solving. For instance, during the development of a new feature, engineers must often interact with stakeholders, gather feedback, and iterate on their designs. These iterative processes demand a level of human intuition and adaptability that AI does not possess.

AI has undoubtedly enhanced certain aspects of coding, but its limitations in solving real-life coding problems are significant. The context, creativity, and collaborative skills that human engineers bring to the table are too significant and nuanced to be replaced by AGI (whatever that means), in 10 years or more. Some might argue that it's only a matter of time. I say, it's a matter of true understanding and sentience, both of which require a different approach than the one that current AI models are taking.

3. Turmoil is Temporary

The disruptions we are experiencing in the tech industry today, including layoffs and economic uncertainties, are undeniably challenging. However we cannot forget that they are temporary all the same. 

AI and AGI will follow a similar trajectory. While these technologies will automate certain repetitive and mundane tasks, they will also enhance our capabilities, allowing us to focus on more complex and creative aspects of our work. This shift will create new roles and specialties within the engineering field. For instance, as AI systems become more integrated into business operations, there will be a growing demand for engineers who can design, implement, and maintain these systems. Additionally, new fields such as AI ethics, AI safety, and human-AI interaction are emerging. As AI replaces the old work, there is so much potential for new work to not only be found but also created. 

A study by the World Economic Forum predicts that AI and automation could create 97 million new jobs by 2025, outpacing the number of jobs displaced by these technologies. These new roles will span various sectors, including data analysis, AI development, cybersecurity, and digital marketing, among others. 

The integration of AI into various industries will lead to the development of new products and services, driving economic growth and innovation. Engineers who can leverage AI to solve real-world problems will be at the forefront of this transformation. AI-powered tools are already being used to enhance healthcare delivery, optimise supply chains, and improve environmental sustainability. 

So what does all this mean? It means that the current turmoil in the tech industry is a temporary phase. AI/AGI will ultimately enhance our capabilities, create new job opportunities, and drive economic growth. By focusing on continuous learning and adaptability, we can figure out these changes successfully and emerge stronger and more innovative. 

4. This is the Age of Problem Solvers

We are currently living in an era that values problem solvers more than ever before. With the power of AI on our side, each one of us now has the ability to become our own Nikola Tesla or Steve Jobs. This means we need to start thinking beyond traditional career paths and the allure of working for the Big Tech. 

The traditional path of securing a job at a major tech company is no longer the only or the most desirable route for many engineers. These companies often come with limitations on creativity and the scope of impact. Engineers today have the opportunity to leverage their skills to solve significant global issues, from climate change and healthcare to education and social inequality. 

AI can be used to analyse vast amounts of data to identify patterns and insights that were previously inaccessible. This capability can be applied to a wide range of fields, such as predicting climate patterns, optimising resource allocation in agriculture, and improving disease diagnosis and treatment in healthcare.

Startups and smaller companies are often at the forefront of this kind of innovation. They are more agile and willing to take risks, providing engineers with the freedom to experiment and develop groundbreaking solutions. By joining or founding startups focused on solving real-world problems, engineers can have a direct and tangible impact. 

An excellent example of engineers making a difference is the rise of social impact tech startups. These companies aim to address societal challenges using technology. Engineers working in these startups are developing solutions for clean energy, affordable healthcare, and accessible education, among other areas. Their work demonstrates that engineers can be more impactful by aligning their skills with global needs rather than just pursuing traditional corporate roles.

Engineers who can think critically and adapt to new technologies will always be in demand. The ability to learn and apply new tools, such as machine learning algorithms, blockchain technology, or quantum computing, can set you apart in a competitive job market. 

To truly embrace the age of problem solvers, we must also cultivate a mindset of continuous learning and curiosity. This is the age for engineers who are problem solvers. Engineers can drive meaningful change and achieve success beyond traditional career paths. The opportunities are vast and varied, and those who embrace this mindset will find themselves at the forefront of innovation and impact. Now is the time to think big, be bold, and use our engineering skills to make a difference in the world.

5. A Word of Caution for Big Tech & Founders of Tech Companies

Last but not the least, I would like to share a word of caution with the industry leaders and founders & CEOs of tech companies across the world. 

The rapid advancements in AI and technology have been made possible by the relentless efforts and innovative spirit of your employees. They are the backbone of your organisations, driving the development of cutting-edge technologies and maintaining the vast infrastructure that powers your services. However, the recent trends of job cuts, reduced amenities, and decreased pay are alarming and counterproductive.

Your employees are not just cogs in a machine. They are the lifeblood of your company. Disempowering them through layoffs and diminishing work conditions not only undermines their morale but also jeopardises the future of your organisation. The talent and dedication of your engineers are what fuel the innovation and competitive edge that tech companies are known for.

It's essential to recognise that investing in your employees is investing in your company's future. Happy and motivated employees are more productive, creative, and loyal. They are the ones who will develop the next groundbreaking technologies and ensure that your company remains at the forefront of the industry. Providing them with the resources, support, and respect they deserve is not just good ethics, it's sound business strategy.

The narrative that AI will replace engineers and other employees is not only misleading but also detrimental to your workforce's confidence. Instead of fostering fear and uncertainty, focus on how AI can augment your employees' capabilities. Create an environment where AI and human ingenuity can coexist and thrive together. Encourage your employees to explore new ways of integrating AI into their workflows, enhancing their productivity and innovation potential.

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for sustaining long-term productivity and creativity. Overworking your employees and reducing their benefits can lead to burnout, high turnover rates, and a decline in the quality of work. 

A culture of continuous learning and development is vital. Encourage your employees to pursue further education, attend conferences, and stay updated with the latest advancements in technology. Providing opportunities for professional growth will not only benefit your employees but also bring fresh ideas and innovations to your company.

The key to sustaining the success and innovation of tech companies lies in treating your engineers and employees with the respect and support they deserve. They are the ones who drive your company's technological advancements and ensure its competitive edge. By investing in their well-being, creating a positive work environment, and embracing the synergy between AI and human creativity, you can build a stronger, more resilient organisation. The future of your company depends on the talent and dedication of your engineers, so empower them, and they will lead you to new heights.

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