For the past 18 years in the software industry, I have witnessed numerous technological advancements that have consistently created new opportunities for software programmers. However, the evolution of AI CoPilots and AI Agents presents a potential threat to the traditional role of a software programmer.

The Emergence of AI Tools

AI tools such as Git CoPilot, Codeium, and Cursor, among others, have shown remarkable capabilities in writing logic, creating unit tests, optimizing code, debugging, troubleshooting, and even translating code from one programming language to another.

These tasks have long been the cornerstone of software development, wherein programmers design, develop, and manage software. With AI CoPilots taking over these critical skills, a significant shift in the life of a programmer is inevitable.

Shift in Job Descriptions

As CoPilots mature in generating code across various programming languages, the day might come when job portals no longer feature listings for Java Developers, Python Developers, .Net Developers, and so on. Instead, software companies may look for just Software Operators who can produce code in any language using AI CoPilots.

The job responsibilities could resemble those of an industrial machine operator, where CoPilots generate code based on the instructions provided by the operator.

Legacy Software Migration – New Opportunities

Legacy technologies like Mainframes, ColdFusion, VB.Net, EJBs, etc are burdensome due to resource scarcity and technical debt. Migrating these systems usually demands substantial investments in workforce and multi-year plans.

However, AI CoPilots can handle code conversions and generation, making these migrations more feasible, reducing workforce needs, shortening project timelines, and improved user experiences while unlocking new revenue opportunities for businesses.

Is Low Code/No Code at Risk?

The buzz surrounding Low Code / No Code platforms may diminish as AI CoPilots take over their functionalities. Businesses might no longer find Low Code platforms attractive when they can develop software with no code and more efficiently with AI tools.

This shift signifies a move towards more sophisticated and dynamic AI-driven solutions that surpass the capabilities of traditional Low Code platforms.

As a result, the industry may witness a decline in the adoption and reliance on Low Code / No Code platforms, paving the way for a new era of AI-powered software development.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the transformation brought about by AI CoPilots and AI Agents is not just a shift in technology but a redefinition of the role of software programmers. While the advent of these tools presents challenges to the traditional software development landscape, it also unlocks new opportunities for innovation and efficiency.

Software Developers must adapt to these changes, embracing their new roles as Software Operators, guiding and enhancing the capabilities of AI tools. The future of software development lies in a harmonious collaboration between human ingenuity and AI precision.

Hari Prasad Alla Director

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Evoke Technologies. Any content provided is for informational purposes only and is based on the author’s personal perspective.