Beyond Coding | How Is the Value of Software Engineers Changing in the AI Era?
Tharuka Sarathchandra · Nov 8, 2026 · 2 min read
Previously, as software engineers, we would receive a Jira ticket with clear requirements, acceptance criteria and a definition of done. We would complete the task and move on to the next ticket.
Today, AI coding agents can also complete many well-defined tasks quickly.
So should we still wait for someone else to create a ticket for us?
A proactive engineering mindset
This is where a proactive engineering mindset matters.
Requirements in real projects are not always clear. Alongside completing assigned tasks, we need to take the initiative to identify problems, question requirements, research alternatives and propose better solutions.
Don’t limit yourself to a technology or job title
Throughout my career, I have worked with different programming languages and technology stacks. I have also gained experience across AI, data engineering, DevOps, architecture, team leadership, client requirements analysis and QA automation.
On a recently completed project, I also took on the responsibilities of a Scrum Master. I didn’t step back because it wasn’t my primary role. I handled it alongside my other engineering responsibilities. We can use the time saved by AI tools to gain new experiences like these.
A research and development (R&D) mindset
Another important ingredient is a research and development (R&D) mindset.
We should build the habit of researching new approaches, forming hypotheses, running experiments and validating them with evidence, rather than always following the existing solution.
Product engineering helps us identify the real business problem. An R&D mindset helps us discover better solutions to it.
Junior engineers, in particular, should also get into the habit of asking questions, suggesting improvements, experimenting and taking on new challenges without waiting to be assigned work.
Strong fundamentals + adaptability + R&D + a proactive mindset
Our value in the AI era extends beyond our ability to complete assigned tasks. It lies in pursuing new challenges, identifying real problems, experimenting and creating real value through better solutions.