Welcome back to I'm a Software Engineer ~ what next? — the podcast for devs figuring out their next move. Hosted by tech recruiter James Wilson and software engineer Matt Sinclair, we unpack what it really means to build a career in tech today — from navigating new tools to redefining what it means to be a "good" engineer.In this week's episode, we tackle the question that’s been making the rounds:Is AI going to take your job as a software engineer?Short answer: not exactly.Long answer: it’s complicated — and that’s exactly what James and Matt dig into.We cover:Why comparing AI to a "table saw" might actually be the best metaphorThe difference between automating toil vs replacing talentWhy taste, judgment, and deep thinking still matter more than everWhat the shift from imperative to declarative programming means for your workflowWhy “deep generalists” might just rule the next era of softwareHow to future-proof your engineering career with communication, initiative, and curiosityWhether you’re a junior developer wondering what to focus on, or a senior engineer feeling overwhelmed by the AI hype, this episode’s for you.📌Show Notes & LinksOzzy Man Reviews — speedboat meme (yes, we really went there)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9mtM0uIQ9QCynefin Framework https://thecynefin.co/about-us/about-cynefin-framework/Claude Code by Anthropic — used by Matt to rubber duck specs and designhttps://www.anthropic.com/claude-code👥 HostsMatt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewsinclair/James: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-wilson-92170656/🔗 More from us:https://whatnext.dev/https://quantumfaxmachine.com/

In this episode of What Next? I'm a Software Engineer, James Wilson is joined by Matthew Sinclair to unpack how AI is changing the way engineers work, code, and think.

They discuss:

Why AI is both a superpower and a trap

The shift from imperative to declarative computing

How tools like Claude can help you rubber-duck a spec

Why engineers who refuse to adapt may fall behind

What hiring managers are really looking for in the age of AI

If you're a developer wondering whether AI is your best friend or worst enemy, this one’s for you.

👉 Like, subscribe, and leave a comment if you’ve got thoughts on AI and the future of engineering.

📩 Have an idea for a future topic? Reach out to us directly!

Related:

https://whatnext.dev

https://matthewsinclair.com

https://quantumfaxmachine.com

"I'm a Software Engineer ~ what next?" is a podcast for software engineers at a career crossroads.

Hosted by tech recruiter James Wilson and veteran software engineer Matt Sinclair, it offers insights into navigating career transitions from individual contributor roles to management and beyond.

Featuring discussions on personal growth and leadership, this podcast guides engineers seeking career direction and development. Join us to explore the paths and possibilities that lie ahead in the tech industry.Have you ever wondered when it's time to walk away from your role—and when it really isn't? In this episode, James and Matt dive into the messy reality of engineers switching jobs. They explore:- Burnout and bad management- The lure of salary bumps and startup glory- Strong views on functional programming- The myth of startup equity, and- Why time-compressed learning might be the biggest win of allIf you've ever wondered if now was the right time to stay or go, this episode might be for you.🎧 20 minutes. Zero fluff. Tune in now.Show Notes:- Let's talk about 4/3 time: https://medium.com/@matthewsinclair/0133-lets-talk-about-4-3-time-37c89de5a17b- TPS Reports: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fy3rjQGc6lA- Office Space (1999): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0151804Hosts:- Matt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewsinclair/- James: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-wilson-92170656/Related:- https://whatnext.dev- https://matthewsinclair.com- https://quantumfaxmachine.com