2026 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

As artificial intelligence continues to transform industries and redefine workflows, employers are reevaluating the competencies they expect from computing graduates entering the workforce, as software developers. This study presents findings from a regional survey of employers, with the goal of identifying the evolving skill-sets most valued in today’s AI-driven landscape. The authors have extensive industry experience, backgrounds in college curriculum design and preparing students for careers in IT. Drawing on this experience, they propose a framework for integrating these skill-sets into the college computing curriculum.

The following research questions guide the study :

1) How are employer expectations for computing graduates evolving in response to the increasing integration of artificial intelligence across industries?
2) What strategies can educational institutions adopt to align computing curricula with industry demands for technical acumen, AI fluency, ethical awareness, and collaborative integration?

Survey results indicate a clear shift in expectations: while a strong foundation in software engineering remains essential, employers increasingly prioritize AI literacy, ethical reasoning, adaptive thinking, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Respondents emphasized that graduates must understand how AI systems function, their limitations, and their ethical implications. However, they cautioned against over-reliance on AI tools for code generation, advocating instead for a balanced approach where AI is used as a support mechanism rather than a substitute for human analysis, creativity and problem solving.

Soft skills emerged as critical differentiators in hiring decisions. Communication, teamwork, project management, and a demonstrated commitment to continuous learning were consistently ranked as top priorities. Employers also noted that passion for computing—evident through personal projects, curiosity, and engagement—plays a significant role in candidate evaluation. These qualities signal not only technical potential but also long-term adaptability in fast-changing environments.

The findings have important implications for curriculum design and pedagogical strategy. To meet industry expectations, computing education must evolve beyond technical instruction to foster holistic, future-ready graduates, thus integrating AI fluency into human-centered computing education.

Models used in this study include,
- The AI4People Ethical Framework For A Good Society,
- Microsoft’s 5 Principals of Responsible AI, and
- Self-Determination Theory,

The study emphasizes ethical AI use and experiential opportunities. It encourages institutions to embed AI concepts across the curriculum, not just in specialized electives, and to cultivate environments where students can explore the societal impact of emerging technologies.

Additionally, the study highlights the need for stronger industry-academia partnerships. Employers expressed interest in collaborating with educational institutions to shape curricula, offer mentorship, and provide feedback on student readiness. Such partnerships can help bridge the gap between academic preparation and workplace realities, ensuring that graduates are equipped not only with technical skills but also with the mindset and agility required to thrive in dynamic, AI-infused settings.

This research contributes to ongoing efforts within ASEE to align engineering and computing education with workforce needs and societal impact. By capturing employer perspectives at a pivotal moment in technological evolution, the study offers actionable insights for educators, policymakers, and institutions seeking to prepare graduates for fulfilling careers in the age of AI.