OpenAI CEO Sam Altman took to social media to thank software developers who built complex systems in the pre-AI era, writing line by line, character by character. “I have so much gratitude to people who wrote extremely complex software character-by-character. It already feels difficult to remember how much effort it really took,” he wrote, signing off with: “Thank you for getting us to this point.”
The post sparked discussion about the future of software engineers. Altman, according to reports, did not directly say AI will replace engineers, but his comments underline a broader shift where automation is expected to take over parts of coding work.
The replies were sharp. “Nothing says ‘you’re being replaced’ quite like a heartfelt thank you from the guy doing the replacing,” wrote one user. Another was direct: “You’re welcome. Nice to know that our reward is our jobs being taken away.”
A third went further, saying that as a geeky engineer, coding through trial and error had been both a job and a hobby, something genuinely enjoyed. Altman, the user said, had destroyed that joy and spread the idea that coding was hell and evil.
A fourth was more direct, telling developers they would lose their jobs forever and be forced into coal mines — but could rest easy knowing Sam Altman was grateful.
The post comes amid wider workforce changes linked to AI. Last month, Block Inc. said it plans to cut nearly half its workforce as more work becomes automated. Earlier this week, Atlassian announced job cuts affecting about 10% of its employees while increasing investments in AI.
Industry analysts believe AI tools are beginning to affect many white-collar jobs, including roles in software development and marketing, allowing companies to increase productivity while hiring fewer workers.
Other company leaders have spoken along similar lines.
CEO of Palantir Technologies Alex Karp has reportedly said he wants to increase revenue significantly while reducing headcount. President and CEO of Amazon Andy Jassy has said his company expects its corporate workforce to shrink as AI tools become more widely used.
Also Read: Oracle Considers 30,000 Layoffs As OpenAI Investment Strains Finances https://www.vibesofindia.com/oracle-considers-30000-layoffs-as-openai-investment-strains-finances/
