Career Reflections: Lessons from a Decade in Industry

This lecture provides insights from a decade of experience in the tech industry, focusing on the instructor's personal journey since graduating from EPFL. It begins with a reflection on their early career, including the unexpected decision to remain in Switzerland and the impact of their first job on future opportunities. The instructor shares hard-learned lessons, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities and the significant influence of AI on productivity. They discuss the evolving landscape of technology, particularly the complexities introduced by AI and VR, and how these advancements will shape future interactions with computers. The lecture also addresses the changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in work environments. Predictions for the next decade highlight the necessity for engineers to adapt to AI tools to remain competitive. The instructor concludes with thoughts on the increasing cost of living and the potential for economic challenges, urging students to be proactive in their careers and to embrace the changes ahead.