67% of Engineers Say AI Is Transforming Their Jobs; 85% Turn to Upskilling for Survival

Report by: Syed Taskin Ahmed 

New Delhi, Sept 14, 2025 Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping India’s engineering workforce, with a majority of professionals acknowledging that their roles are undergoing dramatic changes. According to a new survey conducted by Great Learning to mark Engineers’ Day, 67% of engineers believe AI has already begun altering the nature of their jobs, while 85% are actively pursuing upskilling opportunities to remain competitive.

AI Disruption in the Workplace

The survey highlights that engineers across industries are witnessing a transformation in everyday responsibilities. Routine coding, data handling, and testing tasks are increasingly being automated, leaving professionals to focus on more complex, creative, and design-driven work. While this evolution is enhancing productivity, it is also fueling anxiety about job security and career stagnation.

Surge in Demand for AI & Data Skills

Engineers are turning towards short, targeted learning programmes to bridge the skill gap. AI & Machine Learning emerged as the most sought-after domains, followed closely by Data Science & Analytics, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, and Software Development. Within AI, niche skills such as Generative AI, Agentic AI, Python, and Natural Language Processing (NLP) are gaining strong traction.

Interestingly, two-thirds of engineers prefer short courses lasting less than six months, prioritizing flexibility and speed over long-term programmes like Master’s or PhDs. Certificate programmes from Indian and global universities are seen as more practical routes for career growth.

Changing Career Expectations

Beyond learning, the report reveals a shifting professional mindset. 85% of engineers are either actively exploring new jobs or passively considering a switch. Key drivers include:

Better work-life balance (33%)

Improved job security (18%)

Escaping career stagnation (14%)

Higher salaries and promotions (20%)

What Lies Ahead

Experts believe the Indian engineering landscape is entering a phase of AI-augmented work, where human creativity and problem-solving will be complemented—not replaced—by machines. Employers, meanwhile, are expected to revamp job descriptions, performance metrics, and internal training programmes to align with this transition.

As one industry analyst noted, “The pace of AI adoption means engineers can no longer rely on traditional degrees alone. Continuous upskilling is the only way to remain relevant in the future of work.”