Ahead of Engineers’ Day, Great Learning has released its latest survey showing a striking reality: 67% of Indian engineers believe their roles are already being reshaped by Artificial Intelligence. The findings point to a profession at the centre of massive disruption, but also one that is ready to adapt.
The survey underscores that 85% of engineers see upskilling as critical to their career security, no longer an optional extra. As the pace of technological change accelerates, this sentiment reflects a collective awareness that only continuous learning can future-proof their jobs.
ENGINEERS RUSHING TO UPSKILL IN FY26
According to the report, 85% of engineers plan to upskill in FY26. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning top the list of preferred domains, followed by Data Science and Analytics, Software Development, Cloud Computing, and Cybersecurity. Generative AI, Agentic AI, Python, and Natural Language Processing are emerging as the most sought-after skills.
Motivations for learning are clear: financial growth (20%), promotions (12%), new opportunities (12%) and avoiding skill obsolescence (11%).
The survey suggests that Indian engineers are not just preparing for survival but actively seeking to advance their careers through new-age capabilities.
PREFERENCE FOR SHORT COURSES
A large majority (66%) prefer courses lasting under six months, while only 5% are willing to commit to programmes longer than a year.
Engineers are increasingly leaning towards certificates from reputed Indian and global universities rather than traditional Master’s or Doctorates, reflecting their urgency to stay job-ready.
CAREER SHIFTS ON THE HORIZON
Interestingly, 85% of engineers are also considering switching jobs this year.
The biggest concerns include work-life balance (33%), job security (18%), and career stagnation (14%). This points to a workforce that is not only learning new skills but also reassessing what they expect from their employers.
INSIGHTS FROM INDUSTRY VOICES
Maruti Rao Taluru, who works in aerospace, explained, “Working in the aerospace industry has shown me first-hand how quickly technology is transforming the world around us, which is why I decided to invest in learning AI and ML.”
He emphasised that future engineers must combine strong fundamentals with curiosity, resilience and adaptability. “By engaging with peers and mentors and applying your learning to real-world challenges, you can future-proof your career and contribute to India’s growth in an AI-driven era,” he added.
Hari Krishnan Nair, Co-Founder of Great Learning, remarked, “Being an engineer today is vastly different from what it was two decades ago. The skills that once defined success are no longer enough; today’s engineers must continuously adapt, reskill, and expand their expertise to stay relevant.”
ROLE IN INDIA’S TECH FUTURE
The report highlights that engineers will play a pivotal role in India’s transformation into a deep tech economy. With an eagerness to embrace AI, cloud, and data, Indian engineers are positioning themselves as key drivers of competitiveness and innovation.
As India prepares for an AI-driven decade, the survey paints a clear picture: engineers are not waiting to be disrupted — they are preparing to lead.