As the CEO of a software house, our commodity is the ability to build software. Even though we use tools to compile the code into final products, the inputs still come from our imagination and mind. Problems do repeat, but each project has its own specifics that need to be taken into consideration, which makes the work very interesting and satisfying.

I suppose, like in any other job, your body adapts to its demands, and through repetition, you become good at it. Given enough time, programming—like anything else—is a skill that can be learned and developed until you become averagely good. Being averagely good is still positive because it is predictable and reliable. Being excellent requires passion and talent, but that is not the point of this article.

Like any skill, programming improves with practice. Given enough time, anyone can become competent through repetition and learning. However, true excellence requires passion and talent but that’s not the point of this article. The real shift comes with the introduction of AI tools, which are changing how we develop software.

 

The AI Trap: A Widening Skill Gap

Everything seemed predictable until a new variable (AI) entered the equation. With AI tools now widely available, we are at risk of falling into a trap.

I have observed firsthand how AI affects my colleagues, and one alarming trend stands out: AI is widening the gap between experienced and junior developers. The productivity boost for senior programmers using AI is staggering compared to the output of those just starting their careers.

The reason? Like muscles adapt to physical work, the brain strengthens through problem-solving and critical thinking. When developers engage deeply with code, they improve their logic, problem-solving, and creativity. But what happens when this cognitive “workout” is removed?

 

The Challenge for the Younger Generation

The younger generation is facing a much harder test than we ever did. When I started my career, we didn’t have the distractions that lurk around every corner today. There was no YouTube, TikTok, or AI to offer instant solutions. You had to read, think, and figure things out on your own.

Now, the answer is predictively given to you on a platter—a tempting offer, but at a very high cost.

I fear we are entering an era where people will be divided into those who are awake—actively thinking, questioning, and growing—and those who simply follow the guardrails, unaware that they are becoming obsolete.

Of course, AI offers tremendous benefits—I am a big advocate for using it where it makes sense. Some tasks are repetitive and are better handled by machines. But you must maintain a tight grip on how you tame this force—or risk losing your ability to think critically.

 

How to Use AI Without Losing Your Edge

To younger developers: Resist the temptation of taking the easy path. Instead, use AI as a tool for learning and validation, not as a crutch.

• Use AI as your tutor, not a replacement. Think of AI as an experienced advisor with a vast database of knowledge—knowledge you haven’t had the chance to acquire yet because your work life has just started.
• Analyze your task before doing the work. You will become more knowledgeable and might even discover a better approach to solving the problem. Ask AI for the suggested steps to tackle the task. Over time, you’ll notice that problems start to repeat, and eventually, you’ll shift from asking for a solution to validating your own suggestions.
• Challenge the task and look for weak spots in the assignment. Before executing a task, challenge it and identify its weaknesses. Ask the right questions to ensure future your solution covers all angles.
• Use AI to learn the domain you are working in. You’d be surprised how much understanding the bigger picture can change your approach. A strong grasp of the domain will make you more valuable and give you a new perspective on the task at hand.
• Know when to let AI work for you. If you’re working on a series of repetitive modules, do a few manually first to understand the logic, then let AI handle the rest. The key is ensuring AI doesn’t replace your thinking process.

 

Final Thought: Don’t Let AI Stunt Your Growth

The future of software development will not be about who can use AI the fastest but about who can think beyond it. AI is a powerful tool, but it should enhance your skills, not replace them. I understand the pressure to deliver fast—it’s tempting to use every tool available. But be mindful: if you over-rely on AI, your growth will plateau.

Be intentional in how you use AI. Control it—don’t let it control you.

And to borrow a phrase: “May the Force be with you.” You’ll need it.

 

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Peter Vasko, Rare Crew CEO