From Silicon Valley to Welding Torches: Tech Worker Trades Keyboards for Creativity

In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, where the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries, Tabby Toney stands out as a poignant example of adaptability and courage. Once a thriving software engineer, Tabby faced the unexpected challenge of being laid off, a reflection of the broader trend impacting over 77,000 tech workers in mid-2025. However, rather than viewing this as a setback, Tabby embraced the opportunity for reinvention. She shifted gears from the virtual world of software to the tangible craft of welding, a decision fueled by her dissatisfaction with the tech industry's heavy reliance on AI for productivity and automation [source].

Tabby’s career pivot was not merely reactive but also deeply personal and introspective. She harbored a long-standing passion for the art of welding, finding a creative outlet in the mechanical and intellectual engagement that metalwork offers. Her transition is emblematic of a larger movement among her peers who are increasingly seeking careers that promise both creative fulfillment and job stability, potentially outside conventional tech roles [source]. With many tech professionals debating their future in an industry beset by AI’s encroaching influence, Tabby’s decision sheds light on alternative pathways that prioritize hands-on craftsmanship and personal satisfaction.

As she embarks on this new journey, Tabby is not alone. She represents a growing contingent of individuals retraining in skilled trades, responding to the uncertainties of AI-driven job displacement. Her enrollment in welding classes signals a commitment to mastering her new trade and reflects a broader trend of tech workers pursuing non-tech careers. Tabby sees welding not just as a job but as a calling that aligns more closely with her values and aspirations, emphasizing hands-on engagement over virtual achievement [source].

The path Tabby has chosen also opens up a conversation about the future of work in the age of AI. Her story highlights the importance of adaptability and the potential for innovation across all sectors, even those traditionally seen outside the tech sphere. As more professionals reconsider their paths in light of AI's expansion, Tabby’s experience underscores the viability of diverse career paths that harness both technical skills and creative instincts, ultimately broadening the definition of success in today's job market [source].

The tech industry, once the bastion of innovation and opportunity, has seen an increasing number of professionals like Tabby Toney departing, driven by a mix of personal dissatisfaction and industry-wide changes such as the integration of AI. These departures highlight not just the individualized experiences of burnout and frustration, like Toney's with AI's over-reliance, but also broader trends of tech lay-offs prompted by automation. In 2025 alone, tens of thousands of tech positions have been eliminated as companies lean more heavily into AI solutions, raising job security concerns across the sector, particularly among software engineers who fear obsolescence [source].

Beyond personal grievances and industry shifts, the move away from tech careers also reflects a quest for greater creative fulfillment, as demonstrated by Toney's transition from coding to welding. Her decision illuminates a growing disenchantment among tech workers who crave tactile, imaginative satisfaction over screen-bound tasks. Welding offers such an appeal, combining intellectual engagement with metallurgy and the satisfaction of creating tangible products, an experience drastically different from the abstract nature of tech work [source].

Such transitions are part of a larger wave, where former tech employees explore diverse fields—sometimes distant from tech—in pursuit of job security and emotional well-being. The move underscores a tactical retreat from tech's volatility driven by AI and automation towards the perceived stability of skilled trades like welding or even entrepreneurship. This trend is reshaping the narrative of the modern career path, showcasing versatility as a new professional hallmark [source].

Welding presents an appealing career choice for many, thanks to its combination of creativity, hands-on work, and intellectual challenge. As an art form, welding allows individuals to shape, craft, and create impressive works, providing a tangible sense of achievement. The manual nature of welding offers a stark contrast to the virtual or abstract outputs often seen in tech roles, fulfilling a desire for more direct engagement with one's work environment. Moreover, the metallurgical aspect of welding—the science of heating and treating metals—demands a deep understanding and offers continuous learning, which can be quite intellectually stimulating.

The appeal of welding extends beyond just the craft itself; it is also a career choice that promises stability and growth potential. In contrast to some roles in the tech industry, welding skills are less susceptible to automation. This offers welders a greater sense of job security, a significant factor given the increasing reliance on AI across various industries. For those like Tabby Toney, who have witnessed firsthand the unsettling pace of AI integration in tech, moving to a field with more reliable demand and stability can be an attractive proposition [11](https://www.businessinsider.com/laid-off-from-tech-job-now-pursuing-career-in-welding-2025-7).

Another striking appeal of pursuing a career in welding is the potential for high earnings. Skilled welders, especially those certified in specialized techniques or working in demanding industries like aerospace or military equipment, can command significant salaries. For tech workers like Toney, transitioning to such fields not only satisfies personal fulfillment needs but can also offer financial advantages comparable to their previous career paths [10](https://allwork.space/2024/07/new-tech-and-gen-z-interest-sparking-evolution-in-skilled-trades-industry/).

Ultimately, the craft of welding embodies a blend of technology and artistry, providing a sense of purpose and satisfaction for those frustrated by the impersonal nature of tech jobs dominated by machine learning and AI. As a growing field, promising diverse opportunities, welding represents a dynamic career path that is becoming increasingly attractive to those seeking to express their creativity and craftsmanship while secure in their livelihood.

As Tabby Toney moves forward with her new career in welding, her immediate plans include enrolling in welding classes to enhance her skills and gain the necessary qualifications to thrive in her chosen path. Her passion for the craft, combined with her dedication to mastering the art, points toward a future where she aims to establish herself as a proficient and respected welder. This transition not only satisfies her creative inclinations but also presents an opportunity to redefine her career roadmap, setting tangible professional goals that reflect her newfound interests.

Looking to the future, Tabby envisions a path that diverges significantly from her past in the tech industry. She is determined to harness the skills she's building to tackle more complex projects and possibly even start her own custom metalwork business. This entrepreneurial outlook offers an exciting avenue for innovation, where her tech acumen and welding expertise could intersect, unveiling new possibilities for design and production.

Moreover, Tabby is considering the broader implications of her career change. By stepping away from the tech industry, she hopes to inspire others who feel confined by their current career paths to explore alternative and more satisfying work opportunities. Tabby's journey underscores the importance of aligning one's vocation with personal values and interests, a narrative that has become increasingly relevant in today's rapidly changing job market.

Beyond her immediate plans, Tabby also aspires to contribute to her community by offering workshops and sharing her knowledge with others interested in the trade. Such initiatives could foster skill development and encourage more individuals to consider careers in skilled trades, thereby addressing potential labor shortages in these critical sectors.

Lastly, Tabby remains open to future possibilities of integrating technology into her work. While she may have left the tech industry, she recognizes the potential for tech-enhanced processes in welding and metalwork. This forward-thinking perspective highlights her commitment to staying adaptable and leveraging her full skill set to advance her career in innovative ways.

The tech industry is undergoing a seismic shift, and individuals like Tabby Toney exemplify the personal impact of these macroeconomic trends. After being laid off from her software engineering position, Toney chose to pivot her career entirely. Her decision was largely driven by a growing disillusionment with the tech industry's rapid integration of AI and its accompanying job insecurities. According to a detailed article on Business Insider, Toney was not directly replaced by AI, but her concerns about its pervasive presence in her field prompted her career change.

The increased adoption of AI in tech is leading to significant workforce disruptions. By mid-2025, over 77,000 tech workers had been laid off, primarily due to advancements in AI and automation, as reported in multiple industry analyses. Such developments have sparked anxiety over job security among tech workers, propelling some to seek alternative professions. Formal conferences have been organized for tech workers exploring new career paths, emphasizing skilled trades and entrepreneurship as viable options. These sessions underscore the perceived stability and lucrative prospects outside of tech, motivating figures like Toney to explore professions like welding.

Welding, for Toney, represents a return to tangible, hands-on creation, contrasting the abstraction of software engineering. She finds it creatively fulfilling and intellectually stimulating, engaging with the metallurgy component that challenges her in new ways. Moreover, the move to welding was facilitated by her previous experience in the field, allowing her to leverage old skills in a fresh context. As she embarks on this new path, welding classes form part of her transition, providing the technical proficiency needed for professional success.

While Toney's shift from tech to welding resonates on a personal level, it reflects broader trends driven by AI's impact on the workforce. Reports indicate that up to 507 tech workers lose their jobs daily to AI, a stark indicator of the pressure technology professionals face. Although AI promises efficiency and innovation, it also demands a reconfiguration of skillsets towards disciplines like data science and machine learning. This transformation may drive workers to find creative intersections between their tech expertise and hands-on trades, signifying a shift in how career fulfillment and stability are perceived.

The tech industry has long been a beacon for innovation and high salaries, attracting talent from all backgrounds. However, recent shifts driven by AI and automation have prompted many tech workers to reconsider their career paths. Former software engineer, Tabby Toney, serves as a prime example of this trend. After being unexpectedly laid off, her dissatisfaction with the overwhelming reliance on artificial intelligence drove her to explore a new, more hands-on profession. Drawing on her past experiences, she opted to enter the field of welding, a choice that reflects both her desire for creative expression and a growing trend among displaced tech professionals [source].

Toney's move towards welding highlights a larger narrative within the tech industry, where increasing numbers of workers are confronted with the realities of AI-driven transformations. Although not directly replaced by AI, her job loss underscores a pervasive unease regarding the future stability of tech jobs. Many, like Toney, find solace in occupations that offer less reliance on automated systems. Traditionally seen as blue-collar, these skilled trades are gaining renewed respect and interest as viable career alternatives for those seeking stability and personal satisfaction [source].

The transition from tech to trades like welding is not without its challenges; however, it does offer unique rewards. For Toney, welding is not just a job but a passion that combines creativity with technical skill. The physicality and tangible outcomes of the work provide a sense of achievement that she found lacking in her previous career. Moreover, welding classes and hands-on projects enrich her understanding and appreciation of the craft, setting the stage for her to establish herself professionally within the field [source].

Despite the uncertainties faced during career shifts, many laid-off tech workers, inspired by peers like Toney, are increasingly considering alternative paths. This exploration is driven by a combination of job insecurity and a quest for fulfilling work. Companies and industries outside tech are experiencing an influx of new talent, as former tech employees apply their problem-solving skills and innovative mindsets in fresh contexts. The move to skilled trades or entrepreneurship not only makes economic sense but also supports personal well-being, aligning personal passions with professional life [source].

The implications of these shifts extend beyond individual career paths, hinting at broader economic trends. Skilled trades like welding may not face immediate threats from AI, often providing the job security and personal satisfaction that many modern tech roles lack. However, these transitions require significant retraining, and not everyone can afford the time or financial cost associated with such changes. Policymakers and educational institutions are thus being called upon to support workers like Toney in their career transitions, ensuring long-term labor sustainability and preventing potential oversaturation in certain trades [source].

The rise of artificial intelligence has sparked both innovation and concern across various industries, with the tech sector experiencing significant upheaval as automation and machine learning models are integrated into traditional business processes. This technological evolution is accompanied by a growing concern about job security, as human roles are increasingly susceptible to replacement by AI systems. For instance, in 2025, tech layoffs surged, with over 77,000 employees affected, resulting in displaced workers seeking new career paths [] [] []. Despite assurances from experts that the majority of programming jobs will remain secure, the anxiety around AI's impact continues to drive individuals away from traditional tech roles in search of more creatively fulfilling careers.

The ongoing debate surrounding AI and job displacement has been fueled by expert opinions highlighting the dual nature of AI's impact on the workforce. According to some experts, the integration of AI in software development can lead to job displacement within the tech industry, with approximately 507 tech workers losing their jobs daily to AI advancements in 2025. Despite automating repetitive and mundane tasks, which increases productivity, there remains a looming anxiety among nearly 30% of software developers who fear AI will entirely replace their roles. This concern is not unfounded as the rapid pace of AI integration continues to reshape job functions and required skill sets [4](https://www.finalroundai.com/blog/ai-tech-layoffs-mid-2025).

However, other experts offer a more optimistic perspective, suggesting that the majority of programming jobs will remain secure. They assert that up to 80% of these jobs will continue to require human oversight and creativity. Nonetheless, this does not alleviate all concerns as developers are encouraged to adapt by acquiring new skills, particularly in the fields of machine learning, data science, and natural language processing (NLP). Such skills are anticipated to be increasingly essential in supporting AI systems, pointing towards a future where human expertise in data handling and analysis is pivotal [2](https://brainhub.eu/library/software-developer-age-of-ai).

The optimism regarding AI's impact is shared by those who believe in its potential for creating new opportunities in the workforce. Experts argue that while AI might displace certain job roles, it will open up innovative career paths that demand a blend of technical and creative skills. This shift is primarily seen in areas that involve data visualization and AI systems management, indicating a transformation rather than a total replacement of the workforce [2](https://brainhub.eu/library/software-developer-age-of-ai). The key challenge, however, will be in ensuring that the workforce is adequately prepared and supported through this transition.

Public reactions to career transitions, such as that of Tabby Toney from a software engineer to a welder, are often mixed, reflecting broader societal attitudes towards job changes. On one hand, there is admiration for individuals who pursue unconventional paths and display the courage to leave an established career for something more personally fulfilling. This admiration is rooted in the narrative of self-discovery and the pursuit of passion, as it signifies an individual's willingness to redefine success on their own terms. On the other hand, some segments of the public may express skepticism, particularly when a person transitions from a high-status, technology-driven field to a trade or craft. This skepticism often hinges on prevailing societal norms that prioritize certain types of work over others, despite changing economic landscapes and job markets [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/laid-off-from-tech-job-now-pursuing-career-in-welding-2025-7).

The public's response to such transitions can also be influenced by their understanding of the challenges and economic realities involved. As automation and AI become more prevalent, displacing traditional tech roles, the empathy towards displaced workers like Toney could increase, making such career shifts more socially acceptable and even commendable. This is particularly true in communities where tech layoffs due to AI have led to significant socioeconomic impacts, fostering a deeper understanding of the necessity for career adaptability [3](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/07/business/ai-job-cuts.html).

Moreover, public discourse, often mirrored in social media platforms, can amplify support or criticism of career transitions. In Toney's case, platforms that favor narratives of empowerment and resilience may highlight her journey as emblematic of personal empowerment and the broader possibilities that come with embracing trades. Conversely, those more inclined to value traditional career trajectories might view such transitions as a cautionary tale, reflective of the instabilities facing the current job market [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/laid-off-from-tech-job-now-pursuing-career-in-welding-2025-7).

Overall, the public reaction to career transitions is layered and reflects deeper societal beliefs about work, success, and identity. As stories like Tabby Toney's become more common due to the overarching impacts of AI and automation, they challenge existing prejudices about skilled trades versus tech careers, potentially leading to a cultural shift in how we perceive and value different types of work. This cultural shift may gradually foster a more inclusive appreciation for diverse career paths and open-mindedness towards change [1](https://www.businessinsider.com/laid-off-from-tech-job-now-pursuing-career-in-welding-2025-7).

The economic impacts of career shifts, such as the one undertaken by Tabby Toney, are profound and multifaceted. When former tech professionals venture into fields like welding, it highlights the growing trend of technology-driven industries losing skilled workers to more traditional trades. This shift can have significant economic consequences, as tech companies may face talent shortages, potentially driving up salaries for remaining professionals, as they strive to retain expertise amidst an increasingly competitive environment. However, as these workers plug into new sectors, they enrich them with diverse skill sets, possibly fostering innovation and productivity improvements [source](https://www.businessinsider.com/laid-off-from-tech-job-now-pursuing-career-in-welding-2025-7).

The migration from tech to trades also illustrates a reactive shift in labor market dynamics in response to automation and AI integration. With AI technologies replacing some roles, job displacement becomes more common, leading workers to seek sustainable employment in careers promising stability and growth. For instance, welding not only appeals due to its hands-on and intellectually stimulating nature but also offers economic viability with fewer immediate threats of automation [source](https://www.businessinsider.com/laid-off-from-tech-job-now-pursuing-career-in-welding-2025-7). These alternatives could buffer economies against AI's displacement effects by redistributing workforce talents across sectors less susceptible to automation.

The economic institution around retraining and education also stands to benefit from this trend. As professionals like Tabby choose new careers, demand surges for relevant retraining and educational programs, potentially invigorating these sectors. This retraining demand can lead to more job opportunities within the educational sector and stimulate local economies where training facilities operate. Economically, the reintegration of these workers with new skills into different industries might catalyze industry growth, diversifying economic stability across various regions [source](https://www.businessinsider.com/laid-off-from-tech-job-now-pursuing-career-in-welding-2025-7).

Yet, the economic impacts are not uniformly positive. As more tech workers enter trades, industries could experience saturation, potentially lowering wages and quality of work-life balance. Companies might struggle to distinguish themselves in an increasingly crowded field [source](https://allwork.space/2024/07/new-tech-and-gen-z-interest-sparking-evolution-in-skilled-trades-industry/). The ripple effects extend to tech sectors as well, which might face longer-term skill shortages if migration trends persist, potentially stifling growth and innovation in critical technology areas [source](https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2025/06/30/how-is-ai-really-impacting-jobs-in-2025/).

Leaving the tech industry can have profound social and psychological impacts on individuals, as the experience of Tabby Toney illustrates. For many, the decision to move away from technology-centered roles arises from feelings of disillusionment or burnout, often exacerbated by an increasing reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) that can feel depersonalizing. People like Toney, who once found their identity in programming, may struggle with losing not just a job, but also a sense of belonging and purpose. According to Business Insider, Toney found that her exit from a software engineering career was fueled by a desire for tangible creativity, which she discovered in welding—a field that allows for both artistic expression and technical precision.

The psychological toll of leaving the tech sector can be significant. Transitioning to a non-tech career might be accompanied by stress and anxiety stemming from economic uncertainty and the need to adapt to entirely new skill sets. Individuals may feel isolated from their former social circles or experience pressure to return to the tech industry, perceived by many as a more prestigious path. These emotional challenges underscore the importance of mental health support and community resources to aid individuals during such transitions. As noted in Tech Policy Press, the societal shift driven by AI demands a more empathetic approach where career changes are normalized and supported.

Moreover, the social impacts extend beyond individuals. Communities deeply rooted in the tech economy might face demographic shifts as displaced workers either leave tech hubs or bring new skills to different sectors, potentially altering local economic structures. Discussions around AI's role in the labor market often highlight not only the potential for job displacement but also the opportunity for innovation and growth in other industries. As the landscape of work evolves, fostering environments that encourage diverse career exploration can mitigate the negative impacts of such transitions. According to San Francisco Standard, career transition events have become critical in providing guidance and building networks for those looking outside traditional tech roles.

The political implications surrounding the support for displaced workers in industries heavily impacted by automation and AI technologies are profound. Governments face growing pressure to address the socio-economic changes wrought by advancements in AI, which have increasingly become a pivotal point in political agendas. For instance, initiatives that include financial assistance, robust retraining programs, and career counseling are being pursued as part of comprehensive legislative frameworks aimed at mitigating the effects of sudden job displacement. Such policies not only seek to aid those transitioning into new roles but also aim to stabilize the broader economy by maintaining the workforce's ability to adapt and thrive in new sectors. The debate continues around the effectiveness of such measures, and whether they sufficiently address the challenges posed by an AI-driven employment landscape.

Moreover, the political discourse is evolving to include talks of reforms that prioritize ethical standards in AI implementation, ensuring that technological advancement does not come at the expense of human dignity and livelihoods. Policies that enforce ethical AI use are essential to safeguarding workers' rights and promoting equitable economic benefits. This includes implementing measures that prevent AI technologies from being primarily profit-driven at the cost of human employment stability. As seen in many countries, the push for legislative action that enforces corporate accountability and responsibility towards displaced workers is gaining traction, underscoring the need for strong political will to effect meaningful change in labor laws and worker protections.

Public support for progressive policy changes is critical to providing a safety net for displaced workers, such as those leaving the tech industry. Individuals like Tabby Toney, who transitioned from software engineering to welding, exemplify a group of workers seeking alternative career paths in response to job insecurity in tech []. Politicians and policymakers must consider the future composition of the workforce and the necessary support systems required to facilitate these transitions. This involves collaborations between governmental agencies, educational institutions, and private sector partners to build a resilient workforce ready to meet new demands without succumbing to the pressure of imminent job losses.

In addition, the political narrative is increasingly embracing the need for systemic transformations that include universal basic incomes and targeted investments in workforce education and technology. These measures could potentially redefine socioeconomic models to ensure long-term stability and prosperity in an AI-influenced future. However, such proposals often spark intense political debate, with concerns over fiscal feasability and implementation strategies. As the global economy continues to grapple with the implications of AI, political leaders recognize the urgency in developing agile policy frameworks that can adapt to rapidly changing technological landscapes, offering strategic foresight and pragmatic solutions that address the root causes of labor market disruptions.

Tabby Toney's journey is emblematic of a broader societal transformation where technological advancements are redefining the landscape of employment. As AI continues to make inroads into various sectors, individuals like Toney showcase the fluidity with which human talent can transition into more hands-on and creatively fulfilling vocations. Her switch from software engineering to welding highlights a critical response to a perceived over-reliance on technology, inviting a reevaluation of how personal fulfillment and job security are intertwined in the age of AI. As stated in a report by Business Insider, Toney's decision was motivated by both a desire for creative expression and a reaction against the tech industry's current trajectory.

The tech industry's transformation due to artificial intelligence is not only altering how businesses function but also emphasizing the importance of adaptability among professionals. Individuals who once thrived on the cutting edge of software development are now exploring roles they may have never considered previously. As illustrated in Toney's story, the shift to fields such as welding is a testament to the enduring value of trades that require human ingenuity and craftsmanship. This shift is mirrored in the experiences of many other tech workers, as they seek careers that offer greater personal satisfaction and stability amid growing anxieties about automation, as discussed in various insights from Final Round AI and Forbes.

As the fabric of the employment market undergoes rapid changes, there's an increasing need for systemic support structures that facilitate seamless career transitions. Policymakers must proactively address the implications of AI adoption on job security and the availability of diverse career pathways. Encouraging stories like Toney's highlight the crucial role of policy in mitigating the effects of technological upheaval, supporting training and reskilling initiatives, and fostering employment elasticity. Discussions around these issues, mentioned in works at Brookings, suggest that providing avenues for skill development could balance the scales between technology-driven job displacement and the creation of new opportunities.

Through the lens of Tabby Toney's personal narrative, the societal shift prompted by AI's ubiquity is apparent. It challenges both professional sectors and individuals to reconsider the nature of work and fulfillment. As seen in her transition to welding, which she begins formally by taking classes in August, as per Business Insider, the move towards skills once seen as "manual" or "trade" is gaining validity and respect. This acceptance seems crucial, given the unpredictable trajectory of future employment landscapes and the essential nature of embracing diverse career paths. As more people reevaluate their careers amid these evolving societal standards, the importance of multi-disciplinary approaches to handle emerging challenges becomes clear.