The grief of software engineers as mission-driven tech culture fades

Summary

The article explores the deep sense of grief and loss felt by software engineers as the era of mission-driven, craft-focused tech work comes to an end. Through the story of Joel — a staff engineer who chose a meaningful B2B SaaS healthcare mission over other offers — the piece examines how the post-pandemic tech industry has shifted from purpose-driven engineering to efficiency-obsessed, profit-first culture. It argues that engineers are mourning the loss of a historically unusual moment when they had autonomy, resources, and a sense of larger purpose, and are now grappling with layoffs, return-to-office mandates, and the commoditization of their craft.

Source

Hacker NewsThe grief of software engineers as mission-driven tech culture fadesdev.jimgrey.net