Harsh Varshney, a machine learning software engineer at Google, recently shared insights about how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the technology industry. In an interview with Business Insider, he explained that AI is reshaping the way companies develop products, hire engineers, and plan for the future of tech.
Harsh holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from BITS Pilani and a master’s in computer science from Carnegie Mellon University. He began his career working with big names like Flipkart, Amazon Web Services, and Splunk, and joined Google two years ago.
The Tech Industry’s Shift Towards Agility
According to Harsh, the tech industry has become more fast-paced and focused on delivering results compared to just a few years ago. In the past, software development involved long planning cycles and weeks-long work sprints. Today, the process has become much faster, encouraging quicker decision-making and adaptability.
He added that software engineers now have more opportunities to make meaningful contributions, as companies focus on rapid delivery of smart solutions.
AI Is No Longer Optional, It’s a Necessity
Harsh pointed out that the biggest change in recent years is the rise of generative AI. In 2017, when he first started in tech, AI was seen as a specialized area. Now, it has become an essential part of almost every software development process.
He explained, “You’re no longer just building an application; you’re expected to build the intelligent systems that power it.” The demand for skills in machine learning and advanced AI tools like agentic AI has surged significantly in the industry.
Work That Took Days Now Happens in Hours
Harsh also shared how AI tools have greatly improved productivity in his work. Tasks such as debugging, experimenting, and optimizing software that used to take several days now take just a few hours. He remarked, “AI tools now shape how I debug, experiment, and optimize, turning workflows that once took days into hours.”
He emphasized that in today’s tech world, building something that merely works is no longer enough it must be smart and efficient. In his words, “The rules of data have fundamentally changed.”
Harsh Varshney’s experience highlights how artificial intelligence has become an indispensable part of the tech industry. It is no longer just a specialized skill but a core element of software engineering, enabling faster development, smarter applications, and greater opportunities to innovate.
Also Read: How TikTok Is Balancing Growth and Safety in Europe: Key Insights from the New DSA Report
