To grasp how the role of software developers will evolve, one can simply examine the transformation of a similar position that began adapting to AI a few years earlier: DevOps engineers. Having been directly involved in the movement that redefined the DevOps engineer’s role, my experience provides valuable insights into this shift.
Before the rise of cloud computing, and even into the mid-2010s, DevOps was a relentless, labor-intensive job. It roughly involved renting data center space, managing servers and networking, handling deployments, and being on-call 24/7 to address inevitable nighttime emergencies. The role was grueling, thankless, and a fast track to burnout.
AI entered the DevOps space earlier for two key reasons: (1) The shift to cloud computing made every aspect of infrastructure accessible via command line and easier to monitor; (2) The widespread adoption of monitoring unleashed a torrent of data from every corner of the infrastructure. With data as AI’s foundation, its availability in the DevOps domain accelerated the pace of evolution dramatically. I was in the driver’s seat to witness the evolution. In 2015, I started SignifAI, whose mission was to augment the DevOps function through AI to increase reliability and performance of complex infrastructure systems.
Fast forward to today, AI has revolutionized DevOps. It automates repetitive tasks, improves monitoring, predicts failures, and optimizes workflows, turning what was once a labor-intensive role into one that leverages AI tools for efficiency and innovation. Today, DevOps engineers are mostly hired based on how well they understand and work with AI tools.
A similar transformation is now underway in software engineering. As AI adoption reshapes the field, the evolution of the DevOps role offers valuable lessons to help us understand the key implications of AI for software developers.
- Mastery of AI is Essential
The era of developers being valued solely for their coding skills is coming to an end. By 2040, machines could write most code, according to researchers. This doesn’t mean developers are obsolete; it means they must adapt. The developers who will thrive are problem-solvers first and coders second—those who can tackle complex challenges, understand business needs, and wield AI tools effectively. - Evolving Skillsets and New Economic Models
As AI takes over routine coding, the value shifts to solution design and architecture. By 2030, most corporate developers may act as software reviewers rather than traditional coders, predicts Bessemer Venture Partners. AI agents and subscription-based AI tools could dominate freelancing platforms, changing how software services are bought and sold. - A Broader Role for Developers
Tomorrow’s developers might not know every syntax rule but will excel at leveraging AI to create innovative applications and solve real-world problems. Soft skills—like communication, collaboration, and project management—will be just as important as technical expertise.
Why This Matters to You Mr. Developer
The ground is shifting. The days of relying purely on coding expertise are over. To stay ahead, you’ll need to:
- Become an AI Tools Connoisseur. Don’t just skim the surface of AI tools. Dive deep. Understand the nuances. Make it a habit to try out a new AI tool every day. Get involved in discussions about AI in software development. And remember, what AI can do today is just the beginning. Think exponentially.
- Be the Disruptor, Not the Disrupted. Look for ways to automate your workflow with AI. Build your own toolkit of AI assistants. Could you create an AI agent to handle your code reviews or generate test cases? Think about how AI could transform your specific niche.
- Cultivate AI-Human Synergy Skills Learn. to communicate effectively with AI tools. Master the art of prompt engineering. Develop your AI oversight skills—know when to trust AI output and when to intervene. Most importantly, focus on the high-level problem-solving that AI still struggles with.
Position Yourself for the Future
The AI revolution isn’t something to adapt to passively—it’s an opportunity to lead. By embracing these strategies, you’ll not only future-proof your career but also shape the next generation of software development.
For web3 developers, AI solutions may still be limited, but change is coming—stay tuned.
– JP Marcos, CEO and Founder