You have to beat the models at something (www.seangoedecke.com)

In a thought-provoking examination of the evolving role of software engineers in the age of advanced AI, the author stresses the need for engineers to demonstrate their unique value over AI systems like GPT-5.6-Sol or Claude Opus 5. As software development costs diminish due to AI capabilities, engineers are challenged to distinguish themselves beyond basic tasks and contribute in ways that AI cannot, such as deep familiarity with specific codebases and adept technical communication. The piece highlights that while AI has become proficient in many areas of coding, it still struggles with contextual understanding, leading to mistakes rooted in ignorance or paranoia about software safety, which experienced engineers can leverage to add significant value. The article underscores the importance of human skills in an AI-dominated landscape, arguing that technical communication is a key area where engineers can excel. As AI-generated text often lacks clarity and engagement, engineers need to act as a bridge between complex coding concepts and effective communication. Emphasizing that engineers should not rely solely on AI for content generation or coding, the author warns against becoming mere operators of AI systems. Instead, fostering a deep understanding of technical details and mastering the ability to articulate those insights will help engineers remain indispensable in a rapidly evolving tech environment.