Is Learning to Code Still Worth It in 2026?

Summary

The video script explores the potential future of software engineering in the age of AI. It discusses how AI might automate coding tasks, changing the role of programmers but not necessarily eliminating the job entirely. While AI tools can assist in coding, debugging, and other tasks, the speaker believes there will still be demand for technical roles in the future, though they may look different. The video also emphasizes the importance of learning to code as a foundational skill, even as the job market shifts, and suggests staying up-to-date with AI advancements to remain relevant.

Takeaways

• 🤖 Predictions that software engineering will be "dead" soon have been repeated since early 2023, and so far none have fully materialized.
• ⚖️ The impact of AI on programming is both a technical problem and a people/organizational problem, not just about how good the technology is.
• 📈 AI coding tools are rapidly improving and are already widely used by both beginners and experienced programmers for day-to-day work.
• 🧠 Even if AI writes most code, companies may still want humans involved for decision-making, accountability, and trust.
• 🔧 Rather than eliminating programmers, AI is likely to change the job by automating grunt work and shifting focus to higher-level thinking.
• 🐞 Debugging, system understanding, and architectural decision-making remain critical human skills, even with strong AI tools.
• 👶 Junior developer roles are shrinking, while senior-level skills are becoming more important earlier in a programmer’s career.
• 📚 Learning to code is still valuable because it provides the foundation needed to understand, debug, and guide AI-generated systems.
• 🐍 Python is recommended as a beginner-friendly and future-proof language, especially due to its importance in AI and machine learning.
• 🔄 A future scenario may replace the traditional software engineer role with new technical roles, such as overseeing AI agents or designing AI workflows.
• 🧭 Flexibility is key: those willing to adapt their day-to-day work beyond writing code line-by-line are better positioned for the future.
• 🚀 Despite uncertainty, continued investment in AI and technology suggests new technical roles will emerge rather than tech work disappearing entirely.

Q & A

Will AI fully automate software engineering jobs by 2026?

No, AI is unlikely to fully automate software engineering jobs by 2026. While AI can handle many repetitive tasks like writing boilerplate code or basic functions, human involvement will still be essential for tasks like decision-making, debugging, and overseeing AI systems.

How has AI been affecting software engineering jobs so far?

AI has been increasingly integrated into software development, helping engineers with tasks such as writing unit tests, generating boilerplate code, and even some aspects of business logic. However, experienced programmers still need to make critical decisions and troubleshoot issues that AI can't fully handle.

What role do senior software engineers play in an AI-dominated coding environment?

Senior software engineers are still crucial for high-level decision-making, such as choosing frameworks, debugging complex issues, and ensuring that AI-generated code works as expected. AI may handle some of the day-to-day coding tasks, but senior engineers are needed to guide the process and handle the more nuanced aspects of development.

Should I still learn to code if AI is getting so good at it?

Yes, learning to code is still valuable. AI can automate many aspects of coding, but understanding the fundamentals of programming is essential for tasks like debugging and troubleshooting. Coding is also the foundation for many other technical skills, making it useful across various fields.

Which programming language is recommended for beginners, especially in light of AI?

Python is highly recommended for beginners. It is user-friendly, widely used in AI and machine learning projects, and offers a strong foundation for anyone looking to pursue a career in tech.

What might the future job roles look like for programmers as AI becomes more integrated?

In the future, traditional programming roles may evolve into new technical positions such as overseeing AI systems or managing AI workflows. Roles may focus more on ensuring AI systems operate effectively and guiding AI development rather than writing code by hand.

Will AI replace all programmers in the future?

AI is unlikely to completely replace all programmers. While it may automate many aspects of coding, the need for human input—particularly for overseeing AI, making high-level decisions, and debugging—will persist for the foreseeable future.

What skills are essential for the future of software engineering in an AI-driven world?

In an AI-driven world, it's important to focus on skills like system design, debugging large systems, and staying up-to-date with AI research. Developing expertise in overseeing AI workflows and ensuring the quality of AI-generated code will also be valuable.

Is it too late to get into software engineering given AI's rise?

No, it's not too late. While AI is changing the landscape, software engineering will continue to evolve, and there will still be opportunities in the field. The key is to stay adaptable, learn the fundamentals of coding, and be open to evolving your skillset.

What can we expect from new jobs created by advancements in AI and technology?

New jobs created by advancements in AI and technology may revolve around overseeing AI systems, optimizing workflows, and providing human guidance in decision-making processes. These roles will likely be more technical in nature, even if they don't involve traditional coding tasks.