In an era where AI is transforming the tech landscape, junior and entry level developers are facing a stark new reality. Most tasks that were once bonafide stepping stones into the tech field are now being automated by AI powered tools. Simultaneously, major tech companies have invested heavily in these systems and recent workforce reductions at major tech firms such as Salesforce, Meta, Amazon, Microsoft and Oracle (driven in part by economic pressures and post pandemic hiring corrections) suggest a shifting job market where traditional entry-level coding roles can feel like finding needles in a haystack. In today’s world, AI is not just the future: it is already shaping the present.
For those just starting their careers in tech, the question is clear: how do you safeguard your future when AI is doing so much of the work?
Focus on Applied Knowledge, Not Just Theory
Simply memorising basic coding concepts is no longer enough. Junior developers need to think about how technology fits into larger systems and why the solutions they build matter. AI may excel at generating the “what” (completing repetitive tasks or writing code snippets) but it struggles with the “why.” Developers who can reason through problems, design thoughtful systems with an eye for long‑term organisational goals and maintenance and make decisions based on logic and impact bring skills that machines cannot replicate.
Build a Portfolio That Demonstrates Critical Thinking
A portfolio filled with basic exercises like loops and arrays won’t stand out in 2026. Instead, create projects that solve real problems. For instance, if you’re interested in finance, design a tool that automates repetitive Excel workflows or integrates AI to simplify banking processes. Show that you can understand business operations, apply technical skills creatively and deliver solutions that make a tangible impact. Employers hire problem-solvers, not just coders.
Leverage AI as a Career Ally
Instead of seeing AI as competition, treat it as a tool to amplify your abilities. Familiarise yourself with code-generation platforms and data analysis tools. Use them to help make your jobs easier but don’t rely solely on them. It’s a tool, when used wisely, can help elevate. Developers who can use AI to work faster, smarter and more creatively are far more valuable than those who try to ignore it. In this new tech era, adaptability is key.
Develop Transferable Skills
Communication, collaboration and business understanding are becoming just as important as coding ability. Junior developers who can explain complex ideas clearly to non‑technical colleagues, align their work with project goals, and adapt to changing priorities are far less likely to be replaced by automation. Pairing technical skills with strong soft skills builds resilience in a rapidly changing job market.
There are several practical ways to develop these skills. Attend industry meet-ups and company events to expand your network and observe how professionals solve problems in real‑world environments. Participate in hackathons, where collaboration and rapid decision‑making are essential. Practice reverse‑engineering existing code to deepen your understanding of system design and logic. Volunteering your time to mentor or support others in the tech community can also build confidence, presentation skills and leadership ability. These experiences help you become more than someone who can write code, positioning you as a well‑rounded contributor capable of thriving in diverse tech roles.
Keep Learning and Evolving
The pace of change in tech is relentless and staying relevant means constantly expanding your skill set. Continuously upskilling in new languages, frameworks, or adjacent fields like DevOps, cloud computing or product management will keep your career relevant. The developers who thrive are those who embrace lifelong learning, curiosity, and flexibility. Also contribute to communities that serve the area you wish to go into. I know we are all tired of the performance on LinkedIn, however, contributing ideas to pages that align with the industry you wish to go into are important.
To conclude?
As AI becomes better at aggregating existing human knowledge, the old model of education itself is under pressure. When AI can instantly synthesise and explain that same information, the value of simply knowing facts is not as important any longer. What matters more is the ability to understand how knowledge is structured, to question assumptions, to learn new things quickly and to adapt: skills that AI cannot fully replicate.
In other words, developers should spend less time trying to memorise every language and framework and more time mastering how to think, how to learn and how to apply knowledge in new contexts. This shift from static knowledge to adaptable thinking is what will make careers resilient in an AI driven world. AI may be redefining entry‑level coding roles, but it cannot replace developers who think critically, understand systems and solve real‑world problems. By building meaningful portfolios, leveraging tools and developing transferable skills, junior developers can thrive in the modern tech landscape. The future of tech isn’t about competing with machines: it’s about working alongside them whilst being adaptable and evolving. Those who do will remain indispensable, no matter how much AI continues to bloom.
