PRAISE (Preceptorship for AI-Accelerated Software Engineering) (commandline.microsoft.com)

Microsoft and Carnegie Mellon University have launched PRAISE (Preceptorship for AI-Accelerated Software Engineering), an innovative program that pairs junior software engineers with experienced mentors. This initiative aims to address concerns about the future of software engineering in an era where AI can quickly generate code. By mimicking the traditional nursing preceptorship model, the program is designed to enhance practical engineering experience while fostering an understanding of design, architecture, and responsible use of AI tools. The focus is on ensuring junior engineers develop critical skills and confidence, thereby preparing them to become the senior developers of tomorrow. PRAISE recognizes that while AI is transforming coding practices, the fundamental need for knowledgeable engineers remains unchanged. With a curriculum developed in partnership with Carnegie Mellon, the program integrates academic learning with hands-on mentoring, allowing junior engineers to better understand the implications of their work and decision-making processes. The initiative emphasizes the importance of combining theoretical knowledge with real-world problem-solving, ultimately ensuring that the next generation of engineers is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of modern software development, where human judgment is essential to successfully leverage AI-driven tools.