OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently addressed concerns about AI’s impact on the software engineering job market, particularly advising students about career choices. Altman suggests that by 2025, AI will significantly transform how coding is done, making traditional software engineering roles less prevalent. He emphasizes that while AI won’t completely eliminate programming jobs, it will fundamentally change the nature of the work. Altman recommends that students should focus on understanding AI systems rather than traditional coding, as future opportunities will likely center around working with AI tools rather than conventional programming. He notes that the most valuable skills will involve knowing how to effectively prompt and direct AI systems. The article highlights how AI tools like GitHub Copilot are already changing software development, with capabilities expanding rapidly. Altman’s perspective aligns with broader industry trends showing increased integration of AI in software development processes. However, he maintains that human oversight and direction will remain crucial, suggesting a shift towards roles that combine technical understanding with AI system management. The discussion reflects growing concerns about AI’s impact on technical professions and the need for education systems to adapt to these changes. The key takeaway is that while programming jobs won’t disappear, the skills required for success in software engineering are evolving rapidly due to AI advancement.