This piece from datapro.news argues that the role of data engineers is facing significant disruption from artificial intelligence despite previous perceptions of security. It contends that companies are increasingly replacing salaried engineers with a combination of AI systems and contract workers, leading to widespread layoffs and a shift towards a gig economy model for displaced professionals. The author suggests that to remain relevant, data engineers must transition from performing manual tasks to becoming architects of data ecosystems, focusing on high-level design, understanding business context, and mastering AI tools for orchestration and governance. The article posits that the future demands engineers who can strategically manage the complex interplay of data, AI, and human expertise, rather than focusing solely on traditional coding and pipeline construction.

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