tech
May 8, 2026
Welcome, Gen Z: Your First Job Doesn't Exist, You'll Have to Invent It
I've been working in software for 15 years. And this year, at a tech event, I met up with friends and colleagues, and as happens in conversations today, we ended up talking about Artificial Intelligence (AI).
TL;DR
- The corporate ladder has disappeared, and AI is eliminating entry-level jobs in software.
- Young people are now expected to create their own career paths, as traditional starting points are vanishing.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the job market, making it harder for junior programmers to find employment.
- A significant percentage of Generation Z plans to start their own businesses, a higher intention than previous generations.
- The concept of the 'solopreneur' is emerging, where individuals leverage AI and automation to run businesses without a team.
- There is speculation about the first billion-dollar company being operated by a single person, powered by AI.
- Students, even minors, can now prototype functional ideas in hours using AI tools, a process that previously took months for a team.
- The disappearance of junior roles raises concerns about the future talent pipeline for senior positions.
- AI appears to be a rival for those seeking traditional employment but a partner for those aiming to build something independently.