Coding students whose jobs were taken by AI forced to work at Chipotle

Tech Graduates Turned Chipotle Workers as AI Takes Over Coding Jobs

What’s Happening?

Recent graduates in computer science are finding themselves unemployed in their field, taking up jobs in the service industry as artificial intelligence begins to dominate tech roles. These graduates, who once dreamed of high-paying tech jobs, are now facing a harsh reality where their degrees do not guarantee employment in their chosen careers.

Where Is It Happening?

The trend is widespread across the United States, with graduates from top universities, including Purdue, facing similar challenges.

When Did It Take Place?

This phenomenon has been escalating in recent years but has become especially stark in the last 12 months as AI tools and automation have become more advanced and widely adopted.

How Is It Unfolding?

– Many tech companies are replacing coding roles with AI-powered tools, reducing the need for human coders.
– Recent graduates are increasingly competing for jobs outside their field due to a lack of opportunities in tech.
– The service industry in the U.S., including fast food and retail, is seeing an uptick in applicants with advanced degrees.
– Industry experts are warning of a possible mismatch between university educations and future job market demands.

Quick Breakdown

– AI is rapidly replacing entry-level coding jobs.
– Top Uni graduates are turning to non-tech roles for income.
– Fast food and retail sectors are becoming common workplaces for tech graduates.
– A significant shift in the job market towards automation is reshaping employment trends.

Key Takeaways

The rise of AI in tech is forcing recent graduates to rethink their career paths. As automation becomes more prevalent, the job market for entry-level coders is shrinking, leaving many with no choice but to seek employment in unrelated fields. This shift highlights a growing disconnect between higher education and the evolving demands of the industry. Graduates are now faced with the challenging task of either upskilling to stay relevant or adapting to new sectors outside their expertise.

The future is not about replacing humans, but augmenting human capabilities. We need to adapt our education system to prepare students for jobs that AI can’t replace.
– Dr. Elena Park, AI Ethicist

Final Thought

**The rapid adoption of AI in the tech industry is reshaping the job market, leaving many recent graduates struggling to find roles in their field. This shift underscores the need for both the education system and job seekers to adapt quickly. As automation continues to grow, the future of work will likely require continuous learning and flexibility – not just for survival, but for success. The old adage “learn a trade” might just mean learning how to work alongside the machines.**

Source & Credit: https://nypost.com/2025/08/11/business/coding-students-whose-jobs-were-taken-by-ai-forced-to-work-at-chipotle/