The rapid advancement of generative AI is reshaping the role of software developers. A recent report by Gartner highlights that 80% of developers will need to upgrade their skills by 2027 to keep up with the demands of AI-powered software development. In a survey conducted by Gartner, 56% of respondents identified developers with AI and machine learning skills as the most in-demand role for 2024.
The survey also revealed a significant skills gap in applying AI and ML to applications. AI tools are expected to bring modest productivity gains initially by complementing existing developer work patterns and tasks. These benefits will primarily impact senior developers in organizations with mature technology methods.
As AI technology progresses, it will have a more tangible impact on work patterns by automating and offloading more development tasks. AI-native software engineering, where most code is generated by AI rather than written by humans, is expected to become increasingly prevalent. Despite the transformative power of AI, human expertise and creativity will remain essential for delivering complex and innovative software.
Philip Walsh, a senior principal analyst at Gartner, emphasizes that while AI will transform the future role of software engineers, human skills will always be crucial. The rise of generative AI tools like ChatGPT and GitHub Copilot has already begun to change the software development landscape. These AI assistants are elevating all developers to higher proficiency levels, reducing the need for junior-level software developers.
Developers require AI skills by 2027
However, AI coding tools also come with drawbacks. They can introduce security vulnerabilities and more bugs, requiring human oversight to resolve.
A study led by Stanford University’s cryptography professor Dan Boneh found that people using AI assistants wrote significantly less secure code than those without access to such tools. AI coding tools have allowed programmers to work more flexibly across different programming languages, reducing the time and effort required to learn new languages. In academia, AI coding assistants are helping students bridge the skills gap by guiding them towards asking the right questions.
Despite the benefits of AI tools, establishing strong fundamentals in computer science and software engineering remains crucial. Developers need to not only write code but also solve problems and design systems in intelligent, sustainable ways. As the industry evolves, developers will need to focus on guiding AI agents, ensuring they adhere to relevant contexts and constraints for given tasks.
Organizations are advised to invest in AI developer platforms to future-proof their operations and build robust AI capabilities. The role of the software developer is far from over. Upskilling will be critical for developers to remain relevant and thrive in an AI-driven future.
Human creativity and expertise will remain indispensable for delivering complex and groundbreaking software solutions.
Feeling stuck in self-doubt?
Stop trying to fix yourself and start embracing who you are. Join the free 7-day self-discovery challenge and learn how to transform negative emotions into personal growth.
