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Eddie Hart, a 2024 graduate of Newcastle University with a degree in computer science and cybersecurity, is facing challenges entering the tech workforce.
Despite his qualifications, Hart expressed surprise at the difficulty of finding entry-level positions, stating, “I thought it would be a little easier.”
Hart notes that even “junior” roles often require two or more years of professional experience.
“It’s not realistic, and it’s just discouraging the good candidates from even trying,” he asserts.
He suggests that employers may be leveraging AI tools to automate tasks traditionally assigned to newcomers, hindering their ability to gain experience.
While acknowledging the benefits of AI in certain areas, Hart contends that “I don’t think replacing developers entirely with AI is sustainable.”
The rise of tools like ChatGPT is being cited as a contributing factor to a decline in tech job openings, particularly affecting younger software developers and engineers.
A report by the UK’s National Foundation for Education Research revealed a 50% decrease in tech job advertisements between 2019/20 and 2024/25, with entry-level positions disproportionately impacted.
The report identified the “anticipated impact of artificial intelligence” as a key driver of this trend.
Concurrently, software developers have widely embraced AI code tools, despite expressing reservations about their reliability.
Research from Stack Overflow indicates that nearly half of developers use AI tools daily, yet only one-third trust their output.
Prashanth Chandrasekar, CEO of Stack Overflow, describes the current environment as “a tricky time to graduate.”
Chandrasekar notes that their research suggests developers are choosing to remain in their current roles, even when dissatisfied, indicating “People are probably running for safety a little bit.”
These factors collectively contribute to the increasing difficulty for young technologists to secure their initial employment.
The use of AI in the job application process is also adding to the stress experienced by job seekers.
Hart encountered one highly automated application process that involved eight stages, beginning with a 20-question exam.
Such exercises can be extremely time-consuming.
Hart notes that friends have been asked to record and upload answers to interview questions.
“And then that’s just reviewed by AI and a computer makes the decision. It just feels like you don’t get that respect of at least being rejected by a human,” he laments.
Colin, who requested anonymity, also a 2024 computer science graduate, spent nearly a year navigating the recruitment process for a major company, ultimately without success.
He says that even smaller firms often utilize AI to screen applications, requiring CVs to be structured in an “AI-friendly” format.
Colin reports experiencing interviews with individuals “who have clearly not read my CV.”
Both Hart and Colin acknowledge the availability of senior roles but question who will fill them if younger developers are unable to gain entry into the field.
Paul Dix, CTO and co-founder of InfluxData, notes that junior software developers are disproportionately affected during economic downturns or disruptions.
He cautions, “If nobody’s hiring younger developers, then you’re going to arrive at this point where you don’t have senior developers either, because you’ve completely killed your pipeline.”
Conversely, Rajiv Ramaswami, CEO of Nutanix, offers a more optimistic perspective, stating, “Some of these younger folks coming out of college actually have more experience using AI tooling compared to traditional ways of programming.”
Ramaswami adds: “I find the market for talent to be the best we’ve seen in several years.”
Chandrasekar observes that the industry has historically relied on an “apprenticeship” model, with young professionals learning from experienced developers.
He suggests that executives and companies with significant investments in AI technology may feel pressured to demonstrate a return on investment, potentially through reduced hiring.
Stack Overflow’s research indicates that while 64% of developers perceive AI as a threat to their jobs, this figure is down four percentage points from the previous year.
“They’ve now seen some of the limitations, where you need humans in the loop,” Chandrasekar explains.
Chandrasekar points out that previous technological disruptions have sparked similar fears of job losses, but ultimately led to the creation of new roles as individuals identified and addressed emerging challenges.
“There’s going to be an insatiable appetite for technologists and developers to go and build those things to help solve those problems.”
However, this surge in demand may not materialize in time for some of today’s graduates.
Hart has secured a position as a security engineer at Threatspike, a UK-based cybersecurity firm, through a human-centered hiring process.
Meanwhile, Colin has decided to pursue a career outside of technology and is considering joining the police force.
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