Entry-Level Engineers Are More Talented Than Ever — So Why Are They Struggling to Learn on the Job?

The Changing Landscape of Entry-Level Software Engineering

Blackstone CTO John Stecher has observed a significant shift in the entry-level software engineering space. With over two decades of experience since graduating in 2001, Stecher notes that today's early-career engineers possess "insane skill sets" that far surpass what was expected when he entered the field.

Blackstone CTO John Stecher said the software engineering landscape looks different than when he graduated in 2001.

The Rise of Computer Science as a Mainstream Career

When Stecher graduated, computer science was often seen as an "ultra-nerdy" path for "super introverted people." Today, it's become one of the most popular majors nationwide. At the University of Wisconsin-Madison alone, computer science enrollment jumped from about 260 students in 2001 to roughly 2,500 in fall 2025.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the number of computer and information science bachelor's degrees conferred in the 2021-2022 academic year was up 115% from two decades earlier. While some programs have seen recent declines due to job security concerns, the field remains significantly more competitive and mainstream than ever before.

The Paradox of Talent vs. Opportunity

Despite their impressive technical abilities, entry-level engineers face a critical challenge: fewer mentorship opportunities. In the past, companies would assign new hires to write functional tests that required them to understand and own code in specific components. Now, with AI tools automating many basic tasks, that hands-on learning experience has diminished.

"You need a good mentorship and apprenticeship program," Stecher emphasized. "That's one thing that I think has shifted over the years."

Blackstone's Solution: The Buddy System

To address this gap, Blackstone has implemented a "buddy system" that pairs entry-level engineers with more experienced colleagues. This approach helps early-career professionals learn when AI tools are providing correct answers and when they're not—a crucial skill in today's automated environment.

As coding tools take on more work, companies increasingly seek engineers who can break down logical problems, use new tools effectively, and question when those tools provide incorrect solutions. The buddy system provides the guidance needed to develop these competencies.

The Future of Engineering Education

Stecher acknowledges that while core technical skills remain essential, the way engineers acquire experience has fundamentally changed. "A lot of the AI tooling can do that for you," he said, referring to tasks that once served as learning opportunities.

The challenge for organizations is to create structured learning environments that compensate for what automation has taken away from the traditional apprenticeship model.