URGENT UPDATE: Famed software developer Martin Fowler warns that the software engineering industry is currently in a state of “depression” due to a significant lack of investment. Speaking during a recent episode of “The Pragmatic Engineer” podcast, Fowler highlighted the stark reality facing junior engineers amidst widespread layoffs in the tech sector.
As of now, Layoffs.ai reports around 114,000 tech worker layoffs in 2025, a significant increase compared to nearly 153,000 layoffs throughout all of 2024. Fowler, who serves as the chief scientist at Thoughtworks and is a prominent voice in software development, emphasized that the current climate represents a “great uncertainty,” particularly as businesses pull back from software investment while pouring resources into artificial intelligence.
Fowler stated, “While businesses aren’t investing, it’s hard to make much progress in the software world.” He pointed to the growing AI sector as a “separate thing” that is experiencing a “clearly bubbly” phase, creating further challenges for junior developers.
In light of these challenges, Fowler’s advice for new engineers is vital. He suggests that junior developers should actively seek mentorship from seasoned engineers to help navigate the complexities of modern software development. “A good experienced mentor is worth their weight in gold,” he asserted.
The unpredictable nature of the AI bubble adds to the uncertainty for those entering the field. “The thing with bubbles is you never know how big they’re going to grow,” Fowler explained, cautioning that the future beyond the bubble’s potential pop is unknown.
Despite these challenges, Fowler remains optimistic about the future of software engineering. He reassured listeners that the core skills of a competent software engineer remain unchanged, suggesting that there is still “plenty of potential in the future.”
Fowler famously contributed to the Agile Manifesto in 2001, revolutionizing collaborative software development. While acknowledging that the current landscape is less favorable for newcomers compared to two decades ago, he firmly believes that artificial intelligence will not eliminate the need for skilled software developers.
As the tech industry continues to evolve, junior engineers must adapt and rely on the guidance of experienced mentors to thrive. The urgent state of the software sector highlights the critical importance of mentorship and continued learning in navigating this turbulent period.
Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops.
