You’re Not an AI Engineer. You’re Just Using ChatGPT.
Last Updated on November 6, 2025 by Editorial Team
Author(s): Rohan Mistry
Originally published on Towards AI.
What actually separates AI engineers from AI users
I see it everywhere on LinkedIn:

The article discusses the misconception surrounding those who utilize AI tools like ChatGPT versus those who are true AI engineers. It emphasizes that while many claim to be AI engineers, their actual involvement often consists only of using AI without understanding its underlying technologies. The author breaks down the essential skills required for real AI engineering, including hands-on software engineering and machine learning proficiency, and highlights the broader implications of this knowledge gap in the job market.
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