Generative AI can now produce functional code in seconds, creating a paradox for the next generation of software engineers [S2, S4]. Historically, junior developers built technical intuition by performing a high volume of routine tasks [S1, S4]. Because AI now automates this low-level groundwork, new engineers risk skipping the trial-and-error struggles that develop deep structural problem-solving skills [4].
This gap creates a disparity in how AI tools are utilized. While veteran architects can easily spot security flaws or concurrency bugs in machine-generated output, newcomers often lack the judgment to know which questions to ask [4]. To address this, Microsoft and Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) launched the Preceptorship for AI-accelerated Software Engineering, or PRAISE [S1, S2].
Borrowing the Nursing Model for Engineering
Rather than leaving new hires to navigate AI tools in isolation, PRAISE adapts a training structure used in healthcare: the nursing preceptorship [S2, S4]. In nursing, new graduates are paired with experienced clinical preceptors to build real-world judgment and accountability before working independently [2].
In the PRAISE model, early-career engineers (preceptees) are paired with senior engineering preceptors [S1, S2]. The goal is not to ignore AI or force engineers to code by hand as if the technology did not exist [2]. Instead, preceptors coach juniors to use AI tools thoughtfully while developing systems thinking and professional taste [2].
This relationship creates a safe space for junior engineers to workshop problems and test assumptions [2]. By explaining their approach to solving a problem and providing specific examples, senior engineers turn the act of producing a solution into a process of deliberate learning [2].
Integrating Academic Theory with Production
Practical mentorship is paired with formal graduate-level coursework from CMU’s Kenneth C. Griffin School of Computer Science [S1, S2]. This ensures that the training is not solely dependent on a single company’s internal practices or a single university’s theoretical approach [2].
Preceptees enroll in specific certificate courses designed for the modern landscape [S1, S5]. The current curriculum includes:
- Machine Learning in Production
- Preceptorship in AI-Augmented Software Engineering I
- DevOps: Engineering for Secure Development and Deployment
These courses teach engineers how to incorporate machine learning into their software and use AI tools during the development process [S1, S5]. Because these credits can apply toward a master’s degree in software engineering, the program provides a path for continuous academic growth alongside full-time employment [S1, S7].
Shifting the Definition of Engineering Competency
The PRAISE initiative signals a fundamental shift in what it means to be a software engineer [6]. As AI takes over the execution of implementation, the human role is moving away from manual coding toward high-level system design and architecture [S2, S6].
This shift does not make computer science degrees obsolete; rather, it changes their application [2]. Deep academic foundations are now essential for verifying AI-generated code to avoid technical debt and ensure software integrity [6]. The ability to critically verify AI outputs is becoming a core professional competency [6].
Ultimately, the program treats the judgment of when to use AI as a form of ongoing education [1]. By combining industrial experience with academic expertise, the model aims to ensure that today’s junior developers have the foundational knowledge required to become the senior engineers of tomorrow [2].
Sources
- Microsoft and CMU Team Up To Train Early Career Software Engineers
- What will new developers do when AI writes the code?
- CMU and Microsoft Launch PRAISE Program for AI Software Engineers
- Microsoft and CMU Launch PRAISE to Train Junior Engineers for AI …
- Microsoft and Carnegie Mellon promote AI-powered software
- Microsoft and CMU Launch PRAISE Program for Early Career Engineers
- Microsoft and CMU launch program · Hacker News | Zeli
- Microsoft Copilot PRAISE Program with Carnegie Mellon University | Subvolts
