As AI transforms industries, experts say programming, data and strong data cyber security skills will remain the foundation of successful technology careers Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the way industries operate, creating new career opportunities while reshaping existing roles. However, industry leaders believe that tomorrow’s engineers will need much more than familiarity with AI tools to succeed. They argue that lasting career growth will depend on mastery of computer science fundamentals, including programming, data analysis, cybersecurity and problem solving. Speaking at the School of Technology Management and Engineering (STME) Orientation Program 2026 at SVKM’s NMIMS Chandigarh, technology experts encouraged incoming engineering students to focus on building strong technical foundations rather than chasing short-term technology trends.
Beyond the AI buzz
While AI dominates cross-sector discussions, experts noted that it operates in a much larger ecosystem that requires skilled professionals in multiple domains. “Don’t follow the glamour. Run after the fundamentals. Programming will never be out of reach. AI may be the buzzword today, but the real opportunities lie in data, cyber security and trust,” said Jagjit Singh, Head of Data and Analytics (Public Services), Tata Consultancy Services. He emphasized that investments in AI are accompanied by even greater investments in data infrastructure, privacy, security and trust, making these domains equally important for aspiring engineers.
Technical skills must be combined with adaptability
Speakers at the program agreed that technical expertise alone will not define successful professionals in the future. They highlighted the growing importance of critical thinking, communication, collaboration and the ability to continuously learn as technologies evolve. Sandeep Malik, General Manager (Quality), HCL Technologies, encouraged the students to remain curious and treat failures as opportunities to learn and innovate rather than setbacks. The message reflected a broader industry trend where employers are increasingly looking for professionals who can adapt to changing technologies while solving complex real-world problems.
Responsible innovation is important
As AI becomes more deeply integrated into sectors such as defense, healthcare and utilities, ethical decision-making is becoming an equally important engineering skill. Nikhil Mangal, Deputy Managing Director of Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), highlighted the growing role of AI in defense technologies while stressing that innovation must always be guided by ethics and national responsibility. Similarly, Manpreet Singh, head of product and delivery at Fastway Transmissions Pvt. Ltd., described AI as an enabler and not a substitute for human capabilities, adding that creativity, communication and critical thinking will continue to distinguish successful professionals.
Prepare students for evolving industry expectations
Educational institutions are also adapting their approach to meet the changing requirements of the industry. Welcoming the new batch, Prof. (Dr.) Jyotsna Singh, Campus Director, SVKM’s NMIMS Chandigarh, said the university aims to bridge classroom learning with industry expectations through experiential learning, innovation and regular industry engagement. He also noted that the institution’s first batch of engineering graduates recorded 100% placements, reflecting its emphasis on industry readiness and employability.
Build long-term careers
As AI continues to evolve, experts believe the technology landscape will reward engineers who possess strong core skills along with a willingness to continually upgrade. Rather than seeing AI as a substitute for core knowledge, students were encouraged to see it as one of many tools that can amplify technical expertise. The consensus among industry leaders was clear: programming, data, cybersecurity and lifelong learning will remain central to engineering careers even as emerging technologies reshape the workplace.