The article challenges the narrative that AI will replace software engineers, presenting evidence that even in a field seemingly vulnerable to AI disruption, mass job losses haven't materialized. It identifies three key aspects of software engineering that resist automation: decision-making about what to build, verification and accountability for deliverables, and deep contextual understanding of codebases and business needs. The analysis suggests that if software engineering remains resilient to AI replacement, other professions with more regulatory protections are likely even safer.
Background
There has been ongoing debate about AI's potential to automate knowledge work, with software engineering often cited as a prime candidate for disruption due to AI's ability to generate code. However, empirical evidence for widespread job displacement in the field remains limited.
- Source
- Simon Willison
- Published
- Jun 15, 2026 at 07:54 AM
- Score
- 8.0 / 10