GradEL Workshop: The Once and Future Software Engineer

Technologies change. Tools change. Industries change. Careers change. The engineers who thrive are the ones who learn how to change with them. Software engineering has never stood still. From desktop applications to cloud computing, from mobile platforms to AI-assisted development, every generation of engineers has experienced technologies that transformed how software is built—and what it means to be a software engineer. Join a panel of early-, mid-, and late-career software engineers as they reflect on how the profession has evolved, the skills that have remained timeless, and what they believe comes next. Through a moderated discussion, interactive audience activities, and open Q&A, you’ll explore how careers adapt alongside changing technologies, what employers continue to value regardless of technical trends, and how to prepare for a future that is certain to look different than today. Together, we’ll examine not only how software engineering is changing, but how engineers can build resilient, fulfilling careers by embracing continuous learning, recognizing opportunity, and adapting when plans inevitably change.