Hi, my name is Tom Smykowski, I'm a staff full-stack engineer. I build and scale SaaS platforms to millions of users, working end-to-end from system architecture to frontend to mobile. On this blog I share what I learn about software engineering, career growth, and navigating the complexities of modern tech leadership.
What This Article Covers
Explore the intricate challenges facing engineering leaders in 2025, as uncovered by a comprehensive survey of 617 industry professionals. This article delves into the paradox of reduced layoffs paired with hiring difficulties, the mixed impact of AI tools on productivity, and the pervasive issue of burnout among tech leads. Discover insights into the evolving landscape of tech leadership and the pressures reshaping the industry.
Questions This Article Answers
- Why are engineering leaders struggling to hire despite fewer layoffs in 2025?
- How are AI tools impacting productivity and team morale across engineering teams?
- What factors are contributing to the high levels of burnout reported by tech leaders?
- How do economic concerns and AI fears intersect in the minds of engineering professionals?
- What strategies might help engineering leaders navigate the current industry pressures?
Length and Time
A detailed exploration with expert insights and industry analysis. Approximately 7 minutes to read.