Recently, learning to be a programmer was considered a secure career choice, but the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) has drastically changed the situation. AI technologies have enhanced the productivity of programming work by as much as ten times, indicating a significant shift in how programming tasks are performed. As a result, programmers are facing the harsh reality that their roles may be rendered obsolete due to this rapid technological advancement.

The increased productivity brought by AI means that fewer human programmers are needed to accomplish the same amount of work, leading to widespread job losses in the industry. Many programmers who once anticipated a stable future are now finding themselves needing to transition to other careers or re-skill in different areas to remain relevant in the job market. This phenomenon is not isolated to just Estonia but reflects a global trend in the tech industry as AI continues to advance.

The implications of these changes are profound, raising concerns about workforce displacement and the future of work in programming and tech fields. Companies may prioritize the implementation of AI tools to maximize efficiency and reduce costs, potentially leading to a significant transformation in educational pathways and the skills required for future employment in the tech sector. The conversation around the effects of AI on employment is critical as society navigates this unprecedented technological shift.