09/30/2026
Join us tomorrow for the CS/Root Entrepreneurship and Computing Seminar Series, featuring CS Alumna Samah Gad, Ph.D. We invite you to attend if you are interested in startups or in learning how research can be effectively translated into practice. In this talk, Dr. Gad will talk about software engineering in the age of AI.
Date: TOMORROW, October 1, 2026
Time: 7 p.m. EST
Zoom: https://virginiatech.zoom.us/j/89291580444?pwd=brK9HfvZq1a3XJATwL1Z9qSbEGfwV3.1
Meeting ID: 892 9158 0444
Passcode: 824484
Title: From Coder to Software Engineer in an AI-Driven World
Abstract: AI is changing the computer science workforce, but it is not eliminating the need for software engineers. This talk explores why the future belongs to those who can go beyond writing code: engineers who understand systems, infrastructure, security, scalability, privacy, and the fundamentals behind the tools they use. As AI makes building software easier, engineering judgment, accountability, and strong technical foundations become even more important.
Bio: Samah is a technology executive, entrepreneur, and computer engineer with 20+ years of experience in AI, big tech, and startups. She holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Virginia Tech. After many years at Amazon, she went on to co-found and scale technology companies and build high-performing engineering organizations. Today, she is the founder and CEO of PeakBeing.ai and advises startups. She is passionate about helping the next generation of engineers think beyond code, embrace AI, and build the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing technology landscape.