Coding in the Age of AI: A Shift in What It Means to Be a Developer
July 28, 2025
AI is rapidly transforming software development—from how code is written to how it’s reviewed and delivered. Tools like GitHub Copilot are replacing traditional resources like Stack Overflow, giving developers real-time help directly in their editors. As Ed Keisling, Chief AI Officer at Progress Software, puts it: “They don’t need to spend as much time searching or asking coworkers for help.”
From Coders to System Thinkers
As AI writes more code, developers are shifting from hands-on coding to higher-level thinking. Keisling emphasizes that while AI is powerful, it’s still a tool—not a replacement. Developers now need to think more like architects: solving the right problems, planning for edge cases, and guiding systems from the start.
Agentic AI and Autonomous Coding
Agentic AI takes things further by not just suggesting code, but completing tasks independently. Some teams are already assigning bug fixes or documentation updates to autonomous agents that can plan, code, and even test their own output. This could drastically speed up development—but raises questions about trust and oversight.
Accountability and Code Reviews
Despite AI’s growing role, developers remain fully responsible for the output. Keisling stresses the continued importance of CI/CD pipelines, reviews, and testing. “AI can still write buggy, insecure code,” he says. Human oversight ensures code quality, security, and alignment with product goals.
Open vs. Closed Tools
Developers must also choose between open-source tools—offering flexibility and transparency—and proprietary platforms that provide scale and ease of use. Each has trade-offs, and the choice depends on team needs and values.
The Future of Development
Keisling imagines a future where coding feels more like guiding AI through natural language and visual tools—less typing, more directing. But even then, human skills will matter most: problem-solving, ethical thinking, and understanding users.
AI can accelerate development—but the thinking behind the code is still very much human.
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