I’m not asking whether AI can replace every data scientist tomorrow.

What I’m wondering is whether we’re underestimating how much the role could change over the next 5–10 years.

Tasks that once required technical expertise, writing SQL, generating code, creating dashboards, building basic models—are becoming increasingly accessible through AI tools.

For someone entering the field today, it’s hard not to wonder:

• Which skills will still be valuable?
• Will companies need fewer data professionals?
• Will data science become more of a business role than a technical one?
• How do you stay relevant when AI keeps lowering the barrier to entry?

Curious to hear from people working in analytics, data science, engineering, and AI.

What part of the profession do you think becomes more valuable in an AI-first world—and what part becomes less valuable?