Software engineers are confronting a reality that many other workers have long faced: their jobs are being reshaped—and in some cases, replaced—by technology. While AI’s ability to write code has dramatically increased developer productivity, it’s also leading to burnout and a growing sense of unease. One technologist described the phenomenon as “AI fatigue,” noting that despite being more efficient, his workload has never been harder. The rise of AI-powered coding tools has created a paradox: engineers are producing more code faster, but they’re also expected to do more, often under tighter deadlines. This shift has sparked concern across the tech industry. Steve Yegge, a veteran software engineer and former Google executive, predicted that AI could eventually lead Big Tech companies to cut 50% of their engineering teams. While he offered some practical advice on how developers can adapt—what he called avoiding the “vampiric effect” of AI—his warning carries weight. “You don’t work in tech,” you might say dismissively. “Why should I care?” But experts argue that the impact of AI extends far beyond Silicon Valley. Matt Shumer, CEO of an AI startup focused on personal assistants, recently posted a viral message on X (formerly Twitter) claiming AI’s disruption will be “much bigger” than the pandemic. The post has been viewed over 69 million times and resonated well beyond traditional tech circles. Notably, Shumer admitted he used AI to help draft the post—highlighting the very tool he’s advocating for. While his company benefits from AI adoption, the broader message holds merit: the workforce must prepare for rapid change. The question isn’t whether AI will affect other industries—it already is. Entry-level roles across sectors are being automated, consultants are seeing shifts in demand, and the legal profession is grappling with AI-driven document review and contract analysis. Journalism, long seen as vulnerable, has actually found new opportunities amid the AI wave. While some newsrooms have downsized, others have created high-paying roles for AI-savvy writers and editors. The industry has endured disruption for years—AI is just the latest chapter. Still, software engineering was once considered one of the most secure and lucrative professions. Developers enjoyed high salaries, flexible schedules, and job stability, partly because they were the ones building the tools that powered digital transformation. Now, that same power is turning inward. The job is highly digital, skill-intensive, and deeply rooted in repetitive, rule-based tasks—perfect targets for AI automation. And unlike other industries, software engineers had long been insulated from the kind of tech-driven upheaval that has reshaped retail, media, and manufacturing. But the balance has shifted. AI isn’t just a productivity tool—it’s a disruptor. And as it evolves, the demand for traditional coding roles may decline, even as the need for AI oversight, system design, and strategic thinking grows. The future isn’t about AI replacing humans—it’s about humans learning to work alongside it. The real challenge isn’t whether AI will change jobs, but how quickly people across all fields can adapt. The era of automation is no longer coming. It’s here.