AI sparks deep anxiety among tech workers, says menlo ventures partner

Deedy Das, a partner at Menlo Ventures, has highlighted the intense anxiety among tech workers caused by the rapid advancement of AI. In an X post, Das noted that professionals are struggling to keep up with technological breakthroughs and questioning the long-term viability of careers in software engineering and product management. He emphasized the deepening concerns about the impact of AI on their careers, finances, and personal lives, asking whether their skills remain relevant in an AI-driven world. Das also raised broader concerns about the future of white-collar jobs, particularly in fields where AI can automate tasks such as coding, document drafting, and data analysis. Annie Wright, a Bay Area psychotherapist, echoed these sentiments, noting that tech workers are increasingly reflecting on their identity in an era of automation. Software engineering has been especially affected, as documented in Business Insider’s series on the Great Coding Reset. Das further expressed worries about the value of startup equity, referencing acquisitions of companies like Airtable and Miro. He also highlighted concerns beyond work, including finding a partner, changes in immigration policy, and raising children in a rapidly evolving world. While he acknowledged these issues are not unique to the Bay Area, he noted they are particularly concentrated there compared to New York City.