New technologies have always shaped Software development, but AI represents a fundamental shift, either in the tools that developers use, but also in how they think, design, and solve problems.
More than a trend, AI is transforming the very nature of coding, automating repetitive tasks, unlocking new creative possibilities, and challenging traditional development workflows.
But this shift raises crucial questions: How does AI change the role of a developer? What skills will define success in an era where intelligent systems assist with coding, debugging, and even architectural decisions? And most importantly, how can developers thrive rather than being left behind?
To navigate this transformation, we spoke with Rui Ferrão, CTO at Code for All_, who has seen firsthand how AI is reshaping software development. In this piece, he shares practical insights on the skills developers need to master, the opportunities AI brings to coding, why embracing this shift isn’t an advantage but a necessity, and a free course suggestion to start your journey!
Rui Ferrão @ CTO at Code for All_
Throughout my lifetime, I have witnessed firsthand many technological transformations. From the explosion of personal computing and the dawn of the internet to open-source revolutions, cloud migrations and more recently, the AI wave, which has disrupted the industry at an unprecedented pace. We are now entering a new era where AI is reshaping the role of software developers, requiring us to adopt fresh approaches in how we design, build and maintain software.
Developers must become proficient in leveraging machine learning models, large language models and other AI services within their applications, or risk losing their competitive edge, struggling to deliver modern, intelligent, user-centric solutions and ultimately falling behind in an ever-evolving tech landscape.
As AI continues to reshape our industry, a question popped into my mind — one which likely resonates with every software developer: “What must I learn to remain relevant in this AI-driven future?”
In practical terms, developers can start their journey into AI by focusing on these key areas:
- A solid grounding in foundational AI concepts such as machine learning, deep learning and neural networks.
- Natural Language Processing and Large Language Models, including prompt engineering techniques, Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG), and Function calling — essential for creating the agentic workflows behind today’s advanced AI applications.
- Productivity enhancing frameworks like Spring AI, LangChain or LangGraph, which streamline the integration of AI capabilities into projects and enable faster development cycles.
In Code for All_, for example, you can learn all of these key areas in a 35 hours free course.
Looking ahead, AI has the potential to become more than just another tool in the software development process, but rather a genuine collaborator that assists with code generation, debugging, architecture recommendations and more.
Now more than ever, developers must cultivate both a continuous learning and ethical mindset, unlocking new levels of innovation and shaping a future where human creativity merges seamlessly with machine efficiency to give birth to exciting new possibilities.
Complement your skills with AI and future-proof your career
The key takeaway? Adaptability and continuous learning will define the next generation of developers, whether through structured courses, hands-on experimentation, or community-driven knowledge sharing.
At Landing.Jobs, we believe in empowering tech professionals to navigate these shifts with confidence. Regardless if you’re just starting to explore AI or already integrating it into your work, the most important step is to keep learning and be open to change.
Upskilling programs, such as the “AI for Programmers” course, provide both the foundational knowledge and hands-on experience you need to start integrating LLM-driven features into your projects.
This course is a 35-hour online free course, offered through the “Cheque-Formação + Digital initiative” by IEFP and Code for All_, from March 3rd to April 3rd after-work schedule every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, providing individual support to each student throughout the application process, ensuring that everyone can take advantage of this opportunity to receive top-quality training at zero cost.
Enroll and join the revolution here (registrations open until all spots are filled).
The future of software development goes beyond AI. It’s about your ability to embrace new models, languages, and tools while pushing the boundaries of innovation.
Will you be one of them?
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