The speaker cautions against the exaggerated hype that AI will soon eliminate engineering jobs, emphasizing that AI is a helpful tool but cannot replace the expertise and responsibility required in software development. They highlight that AI-generated code still carries risks and liabilities, and producing more code does not create a competitive advantage, underscoring the ongoing need for skilled human engineers.
The speaker begins by clarifying their stance on AI, emphasizing that they are not against AI itself but are critical of the exaggerated hype promoted by some company owners and influencers. They specifically reference a recent claim by the CEO of Replit, who predicted that all engineering jobs would disappear within 6 to 18 months. The speaker finds this prediction unrealistic and dismisses it as overly optimistic and disconnected from reality.
To illustrate their point, the speaker uses a relatable example involving their mother, who has very limited computer literacy and no understanding of basic technical concepts like clients or servers. They argue that many people currently attempting to create software or websites lack the necessary knowledge and skills, which leads to poorly made products that are vulnerable to hacking and failure. This example highlights the complexity and expertise required in software development, which cannot be easily replaced by AI.
The speaker positions themselves as a reasonable skeptic, describing AI as a sophisticated autocomplete tool that can assist in writing code but does not eliminate the need for human oversight and expertise. They stress that AI can make coding easier but does not make it free or risk-free. Each line of code carries liability, meaning that errors or vulnerabilities can have serious consequences, and AI-generated code is no exception.
Furthermore, the speaker points out that producing a large volume of code through AI does not create a strategic advantage or “moat” for companies. Instead, it increases liability because more code means more potential points of failure or security risks. The ability to quickly replace or generate code does not equate to eliminating these risks or costs, and companies must still manage and mitigate these liabilities.
In conclusion, the speaker urges caution against the hype surrounding AI’s impact on engineering jobs. They advocate for a balanced view that recognizes AI’s potential to assist but not replace human engineers. The complexities of software development, the need for expertise, and the inherent risks in coding mean that AI is a tool to augment human work rather than a substitute that will render engineering roles obsolete in the near future.