GitHub CEO Thomas Dohmke addresses the ongoing debate about whether learning to code remains relevant in an AI-dominated future. He emphasizes that while AI will transform programming, understanding coding fundamentals will become even more crucial by 2025. Dohmke argues that AI tools like GitHub Copilot will serve as powerful assistants rather than replacements for human programmers, comparing them to calculators that enhanced rather than eliminated the need for mathematical understanding. The CEO stresses that coding knowledge will be essential for effectively prompting and directing AI tools, as developers need to understand programming concepts to verify and optimize AI-generated code. He points out that programming skills will evolve to include “prompt engineering” - the ability to effectively communicate with AI systems. The article highlights how AI is making programming more accessible by lowering barriers to entry, but simultaneously creating new requirements for understanding both traditional coding concepts and AI interactions. Dohmke predicts a future where programming becomes more collaborative between humans and AI, with developers focusing on higher-level problem-solving while using AI for routine tasks. The key message is that rather than making coding skills obsolete, AI is transforming them into a hybrid skill set that combines traditional programming knowledge with AI literacy.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/github-ceo-learn-to-code-debate-ai-advice-2025-4