Can You Still Become a Software Engineer in the AI Era?

Can AI replace software engineers — and is coding still worth learning in 2026? In this episode of Built Different, I sit down with Aliya — a Software Engineer at Netflix — to talk about what’s actually happening inside Big Tech right now. From breaking into some of the world’s most competitive tech companies to navigating a rapidly changing AI landscape, Aliya shares what most people misunderstand about software engineering careers, hiring, and the future of the industry. In this conversation, we discuss: whether AI will replace software engineers if coding is becoming obsolete how hiring in Big Tech is changing what Netflix actually looks for in engineers how technical interviews really work what skills will still matter in the AI era the hidden realities of working inside companies like Netflix We also talk about international students, immigration, career pressure, and what ambitious young engineers should focus on right now if they want to stay competitive. If you’re trying to build a career in tech — especially in the middle of the AI explosion — this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. Built Different is a podcast by Azhar Askarbekova — exploring how real careers, power, and access are built in tech.