AI Shifts Tech Hiring Focus from Elite Degrees to Practical Skills in 2026

Former Meta manager Xiaoyin Qu highlights that AI-driven changes in the tech industry have made it harder for even top computer science graduates from Stanford and MIT to secure jobs. Companies now prioritize experienced professionals and practical skills over academic credentials, reducing entry-level roles. Demonstrable achievements like projects, internships, and hackathon wins are increasingly valued, shifting hiring focus from degrees to real-world capabilities in a competitive market.