A controversial statement? Perhaps. But hear me out.

If you haven't experienced firsthand how AI has transformed software development recently, you might be in denial. Junior software engineering roles as we know them have been dramatically disrupted by AI. And if you disagree, I'd argue you haven't spent time in the trenches with the latest AI tools.

But here's the twist: This doesn't diminish the value of software engineering knowledge. In fact, it's more crucial than ever.

The Timeline of Disruption

Let's talk about what's happening:

• Mid-level positions are already being transformed
• Smart engineers who can command their "AI army" are replacing entire teams
• Within 6 months, the traditional mid-level engineering role will be unrecognizable

The New Reality

Don't get me wrong – developers won't cease to exist. But the landscape is changing dramatically. Think about this:

A project that once required a team of 10:

• Frontend Engineers
• Backend Engineers
• Database Engineers
• QA Testers
• DevOps Engineers

Can now be managed by ONE smart, experienced, and open-minded engineer.

(I emphasize "open-minded" because if you're stuck in your ways with certain tools or methods, you risk becoming irrelevant faster than ever.)

The Purpose Crisis

Here's something we're not talking about enough: purpose.

For many, work provides purpose. What happens when that's disrupted? I predict we'll see an epidemic of brilliant minds struggling with depression as their roles transform. The solution? Embracing AI as an ally, not an enemy.

The Future of Software Engineering

What roles will thrive?

1. Flow Engineers

   • Orchestrating AI agent armies
   • Creating seamless workflows

2. Software/Solution Architects

   • Big picture thinking
   • System collaboration design
   • Creating PRDs that AI can execute

3. Solo Technical Founders

   • We'll see the first wave of solo tech billionaires
   • Leveraging 24/7 AI engineering teams

Starting Out Today? Here's What I'd Do:

1. Embrace AI Supremacy

   • Accept that AI will outperform humans in 90% of coding tasks
   • Focus on the 10% that requires "taste" and creative thinking

2. Master First Principles

   • Build strong fundamentals
   • Understand core algorithms
   • Focus on data structures
   • Learn system design

3. Experiment Aggressively

   • Test every new tool
   • Utilize free tiers
   • Stay current with industry trends

4. Build, Build, Build

   • Nothing beats hands-on experience
   • Create real projects
   • Learn by doing

5. Develop Soft Skills

   • The differentiator has shifted from hard to soft skills
   • Learn to sell yourself
   • Build a personal brand
   • Master negotiation
   • Communicate across industries

The future belongs to those who adapt. The question isn't whether software engineering is dead – it's whether you're ready for its evolution.