This Software Industry is Cooked

The software engineering job market faces a paradox: while there's a projected shortage of 1.2 million engineers by 2026, junior hiring has nearly stopped. Companies increasingly rely on AI to boost senior developer productivity rather than training juniors, creating a talent pipeline crisis. Entry-level candidates now send 200-400 applications before getting offers, with computer science showing 6.1% unemployment. This short-term focus threatens long-term industry sustainability, as the lack of junior training will create a talent cliff in 3-5 years when seniors retire or transition out.