A former team member writing for IEEE Spectrum's careers newsletter describes leadership comparing engineers unfavorably to ChatGPT and weekend-built apps during 2024-2025, as Claude and ChatGPT adoption surged. The author argues AI demos create a false impression that software work is simple, leading some executives to question the need for full engineering teams, while ignoring legacy systems, legal and accessibility requirements, and deployment complexity.
spectrum.ieee.org
· 2026-10-22
A seasoned professional recounts their experience switching careers at 30 and highlights the lack of support from close ones. They emphasize that career changes, especially in tech, are challenging and often met with discouragement, particularly during times of rapid AI-driven industry shifts. The article offers advice on seeking mentorship and understanding the realities of transitioning into new roles or industries.
spectrum.ieee.org
· 2026-10-07
IEEE Spectrum's careers newsletter, produced with Parsity, argues that AI tools function as multipliers rather than substitutes for human skill, meaning novices without foundational knowledge tend to produce low-quality 'slop.' The piece identifies writing as one of three skills workers should prioritize, arguing that clear writing improves both communication with AI models and the development of original ideas.
spectrum.ieee.org
· 2026-09-23
A careers newsletter produced by IEEE Spectrum in partnership with Parsity shares personal advice for engineers navigating job loss, drawing on the author's own experience of being laid off from a management role while juggling a new business and family responsibilities. The piece emphasizes emotional resilience, reminding readers that professional identity as an engineer persists beyond employment status, and outlines practical first steps such as pausing before job hunting and cutting unnecessary expenses.
spectrum.ieee.org
· 2026-09-09
A recent IEEE Spectrum careers newsletter, produced with Parsity, argues that engineers can gain mentorship benefits without ever formally asking someone to be a mentor. The author describes learning by observing and copying admired colleagues' habits, and by asking small, targeted questions about how others solve problems or approach their work.
spectrum.ieee.org
· 2026-09-02
GoKawiil