Don’t Just Be a Link, Be the Whole Chain
Padula Guruge
Associate Technical Lead | MBA | Full Stack | AI/ML | Bridging Technology and Business for Success
In today’s world, AI tools that write code, build apps, and solve problems seem magical and fast. You might wonder: “Did I waste years learning stuff AI now does in seconds?” The short answer: No. AI may handle some tasks, but it can’t do everything. And you don’t want to be just the in-between point, the “endpoint.”
What Does “Endpoint” Mean Here?
In programming, an endpoint just moves information around without adding much insight. The same applies to some human roles: simply copying AI code into your editor without understanding it, or passing things from A to B, doesn’t hold long-term value.
1. Think Across Fields, Solve Complex Problems
AI is great at following patterns, but not at weaving ideas from different places. If you can:
Then you’re offering real insight from context and judgment, not just code.
2. Get Comfortable with AI, but Don't Be Dependent
Understanding tools like RAG (retrieval-augmented generation), prompt engineering, or AI agents makes you more marketable. You don’t need to train AI models from scratch, but knowing how to use them well sets you apart.
3. Be the One Who Checks AI Code
AI can write lots of code, but it's often buggy or lacks nuance. If you’re good at spotting errors, tweaking AI code to be secure or efficient, you're a step ahead.
4. Know Your Domain Inside Out
AI doesn’t know your codebase history or the quirks of your system. When trouble hits like odd bugs tied to old migrations, your deep knowledge gives you the edge. That wisdom can’t be replaced by AI.
5. Value What Makes Us Human
AI can assist with grammar or summaries, but it can't truly connect. Empathy, storytelling, teaching, and creativity are rare human traits that help build teams, user trust, and better products.
6. Become a Master Learner
Technology shifts fast; what’s hot today might fade tomorrow. Being good at picking up new tools and skills quickly is one of the most valuable traits you can develop.
The Upside of AI: Not Replacement, but Reinvention
Instead of fearing AI, this is your chance to grow. Good professionals will always be needed. AI may shift how things are done, but it raises the stakes. Focus on what truly matters: solving problems, understanding people, and learning fast.
Don’t just be a connector. Be someone who thinks, learns, knows context, and brings humanity into your work. AI helps—but what makes us truly valuable is uniquely human.