Survive and Thrive in the Age of Generative AI
Breakout Session at Code Freeze 2024

How Software Engineers Can Ride the Wave of Foundation Models

The generative AI revolution, powered by foundation models that analyze and generate software code at an astounding rate, has upended our assumptions and raised key questions. What new role will software engineers play when foundation models can generate, test, debug, and deploy high-quality software with minimal human guidance? What skills will software engineering managers need to lead teams of humans and AI? Rather than view these AI systems as an existential threat, we should embrace them as powerful new collaborative tools. 

In this talk, Arun Batchu will provide a nuanced, optimistic perspective of how smart, curious, and creative software engineers can thrive by building on and enhancing - not competing with - the strengths of generative AI. Just as programming languages have evolved to increase human productivity, powerful foundation models are now part of our toolkit. We’ll discuss exciting examples of synergistic human-AI development, new skills to cultivate, insights for managing hybrid teams, and best practices for responsible adoption of generative AI. The future remains bright for engineers who choose to surf this wave rather than be swept away by it.

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Arun

Arun Batchu brings over 25 years of experience spanning artificial intelligence, software engineering leadership, and business technology innovation. As a Vice President, Analyst in Gartner's Software Engineering practice, he provides critical insights to global software leaders on adopting AI, optimizing engineering best practices, and evolving leadership skills.

Previously, Arun established R&D centers at companies including Best Buy and UnitedHealth Group to incubate impactful business innovations. He has taught graduate-level software architecture and holds computer science and software engineering degrees from Indian and U.S. universities, along with a machine learning nanodegree.

Beyond his analytical work, Arun volunteers technology services for traffic safety nonprofits. He also runs AI and engineering workshops for youth at his wife's STEM bookstore. Having built his first neural network as a student in 1992, Arun has long explored the intersection of AI and software - including today's foundation models. He brings an interdisciplinary perspective spanning innovation, education, and responsible AI adoption.