Everything changes, and nothing changes (btao.org)

The landscape of software engineering is undergoing a seismic shift as large language models (LLMs) increasingly take on the task of coding, challenging the traditional craftsmanship associated with the profession. Many engineers, once seen as artists of code, now find themselves in a world where LLMs could potentially handle 90-100% of coding tasks. This transition is evident in leading AI labs, where some engineers have stopped writing code altogether. Despite these rapid advancements, the core principles of engineering—focusing on outcomes rather than mere code—remain largely unchanged, emphasizing the importance of productivity and team coordination. The implications of this evolution are profound. As LLMs improve and write cleaner code, the role of software engineers is shifting towards higher-level architecture and design, requiring a new set of skills focused on developing architectural taste rather than code-specific expertise. This pivot brings both excitement and anxiety, especially for junior engineers who may struggle without a foundation in traditional coding practices. While the current landscape offers fast feedback loops and a sense of expansion in collaborative building, it also fosters a sense of dread within some engineers who grapple with the uncertainty of their future roles. Balancing the thrill of innovation with the grief of losing the artistic aspects of programming presents a complex emotional landscape for the engineering community.