Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the impact of AI on employment, highlighting the personal experience of a software engineer who lost his job and faced significant challenges in finding new employment due to the rise of AI technologies and changing job market dynamics [3][12][30]. Group 1: Job Market Dynamics - The author has submitted nearly 800 job applications over the past year without receiving any offers, illustrating the competitive and challenging job market for tech professionals [4][30]. - The job application process has become increasingly difficult, with AI filtering systems potentially screening out qualified candidates based on outdated or insufficient keywords in resumes [9][10]. - The author faced age discrimination during interviews, where younger interviewers undervalued his extensive experience and knowledge in modern technologies [10][30]. Group 2: Personal Financial Struggles - Despite owning multiple properties, the author is living in a trailer due to financial strain after losing a $150,000 annual salary job [5][6][30]. - The author has resorted to gig economy jobs like DoorDash to make ends meet, often earning less than $200 a day [3][19][30]. - The author has faced bureaucratic challenges with unemployment benefits, receiving inadequate support while being threatened with legal action over business income from Airbnb rentals [21][30]. Group 3: Adaptation and Skill Development - The author has attempted to adapt by learning new AI-related skills and creating AI-generated code libraries, but this has not translated into job offers [13][30]. - Efforts to pivot into different roles or lower-paying positions have also been met with rejection, indicating a broader issue in the job market for experienced professionals [15][16][30]. - The author is exploring alternative business ventures, such as starting a pressure washing company, but lacks the necessary funds for initial investment [17][30]. Group 4: Societal Implications - The article raises concerns about the societal impact of AI on employment, suggesting that the current economic system fails to provide adequate support for displaced workers [31][30]. - The author argues for a reevaluation of labor value and the implementation of universal basic income as a potential solution to the challenges posed by AI [31][30].