Wang’s Advice: Spend All Your Time Learning AI Tools
Alexandr Wang, the 28-year-old billionaire and co-founder of Scale AI, believes teenagers today have a once-in-a-generation opportunity. Speaking on the “TBPN” podcast, Wang advised teens to immerse themselves in AI-powered coding tools. He argued that putting in 10,000 hours now could create a “huge advantage” over peers.
Wang emphasized that the era of AI coding represents a “moment of discontinuity.” Just as early adopters of personal computers became industry leaders, those who master AI coding tools today could be the innovators of tomorrow.
What Is AI Coding?
AI coding, sometimes called “vibe coding,” uses artificial intelligence to generate software from plain text instructions. Tools like Replit and Cursor allow users to create apps or write code without advanced technical expertise.
Wang stressed that the key is not just using the tools but mastering them. Those who learn to “use the tools maximally” will stand out as AI transforms industries.
Parallels to Bill Gates and the Computer Revolution
Wang compared today’s AI wave to the dawn of the computer era. He cited Bill Gates, who as a teen spent countless hours learning to program, laying the foundation for Microsoft’s rise.
“Right now is that same moment,” Wang said. “If you’re 13 years old, you should spend all of your time vibe coding—that’s how you should live your life.”
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AI Will Outpace Human Coders Soon
Despite his coding expertise, Wang admitted that AI could soon replicate all the code he has ever written. He predicted AI models will match his output within five years.
This prediction has fueled debates about the future of software engineering. If AI can generate code at scale, human programmers may need to adapt quickly to stay relevant.
Concerns About Coding Careers in the AI Era
The rise of AI-assisted coding tools has sparked concerns about job opportunities for young software engineers. Companies are already integrating these tools to boost efficiency, in some cases reducing reliance on human coders.
Layoffs in the tech industry and a drop in entry-level engineering roles suggest a tougher environment for new graduates. Still, many experts argue coding skills remain vital—especially when paired with fluency in AI tools.
Experts Agree: Learn to Code, Even with AI
AI pioneer Andrew Ng echoed Wang’s sentiments earlier this year. He argued that coding skills, enhanced by AI tools, will make workers more valuable to employers. “This is the best time yet to learn to code,” Ng wrote on LinkedIn.
Ng highlighted that entrepreneurs who understand coding can communicate with AI tools more precisely. This knowledge gap will make skilled coders irreplaceable, even as AI lowers barriers to entry.
Final Thoughts: A Generation-Defining Opportunity
Wang’s advice underlines a simple truth—teens who commit to learning AI coding today may shape the industries of tomorrow. Just as Gates turned long nights of coding into a global empire, mastering AI tools now could unlock immense opportunities.
For ambitious young people, Wang suggests there has never been a better time to dive in. In his words, “That moment is happening right now.”
