From Code to Sparks: Why One Software Engineer Traded Tech for Welding Amid AI Disruption

A Bold Career Shift: Leaving Tech for Welding

Tabby Toney, a 37-year-old former software engineer, made a dramatic career change after losing her job in May. Instead of diving back into the tech industry, she chose to pursue welding, a field far removed from her previous role. Toney's story highlights the growing disillusionment with the tech sector, especially as AI continues to reshape job landscapes.

The Impact of AI on Tech Jobs

Toney's decision to leave tech wasn't just about personal fulfillment. She cites the rapid advancements in AI as a key factor, noting how these changes have made many traditional tech roles feel unstable. "AI has changed the industry," she explains, emphasizing how automation and machine learning are increasingly taking over tasks once performed by human engineers.

Finding Happiness in a New Craft

Despite the challenges of starting over, Toney has found joy and satisfaction in welding. The hands-on nature of the work offers a tangible contrast to the abstract problems of software development. "I'm happy to leave the tech industry," she says, reflecting on her newfound passion for creating physical objects rather than digital solutions.

Courtesy of Tabby Toney