I was laid off by Amazon despite using AI, vibe-coding: what I learned
In October 2025, I found myself in a situation that many in the tech industry dread: I was laid off from my job at Amazon. Despite my efforts to upskill in artificial intelligence (AI) and embrace innovative coding techniques, my position as a product marketer was eliminated along with 14,000 others. This experience, while disheartening, taught me valuable lessons about the evolving job landscape and the role of AI in our careers.
The Layoff Experience
When I first heard about Amazon’s plans to cut jobs, I felt a sinking feeling in my stomach. I had survived previous layoffs, but this time it felt different. Shortly after, I received the email confirming my fears: my role was being eliminated. Although I understood that layoffs are often business decisions rather than personal ones, the emotional impact was significant.
My Journey with AI and Vibe Coding
Prior to my layoff, I had invested time in learning AI and coding techniques, believing that these skills would make me indispensable. I was particularly focused on a concept known as “vibe coding,” which involves a trial-and-error approach to coding that allows for creativity and flexibility.
During my time at Amazon, I had the opportunity to work on an internal project where I utilized AI to build a website. Although I had no prior coding experience, I was able to learn and adapt with the help of colleagues. I thought that by showcasing my ability to work with AI and develop new skills, I would enhance my value to the company.
Reevaluating AI’s Role in Job Security
Despite my efforts, I soon realized that my use of AI did not protect me from being laid off. While Amazon encouraged employees to integrate AI into their workflows, I found that the technology was not a substitute for the human touch required in my role. For instance, when I used AI to generate product descriptions, I often had to refine its output to make it sound more natural and relatable.
Reflecting on my experience, I concluded that while AI can be a powerful tool, it is not a replacement for human creativity and intuition. The most important skill I gained was “prompt engineering,” which involves crafting the right questions to get effective answers from AI. This skill is crucial in maximizing the efficiency of AI tools while minimizing unnecessary resource consumption.
The Shift to Entrepreneurship
After my layoff, I took a step back to reassess my career and personal life. My husband and I had previously discussed the possibility of me focusing on our family and my side business, Do My Resume LLC, which provides career coaching and résumé-writing services. I had planned to transition to this business full-time, but I had not anticipated the burnout I felt after four years at Amazon.
Initially, I took a break from technology altogether. For about three weeks, I engaged in sewing and house-cleaning projects to distance myself from screens and the stress of my previous job. Eventually, I began to dedicate around four hours a day to my business while balancing family responsibilities.
Lessons Learned and Future Outlook
Being laid off forced me to confront the reality that a job should not define one’s entire life. I realized that I had sacrificed precious time with my child in pursuit of work-related goals, and I was grateful for the opportunity to refocus on family. This experience has also made me more aware of the potential for future layoffs in the tech industry, particularly as AI continues to evolve and improve efficiency.
While reskilling may not guarantee job security, it can certainly enhance employability and help individuals transition into new roles more quickly. I encourage professionals to embrace continuous learning, particularly in areas related to AI, as the workforce landscape is rapidly changing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my experience with being laid off from Amazon has taught me that while AI and coding skills are valuable, they do not provide immunity against job cuts. The key takeaway is the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in an ever-changing job market. As we move forward, it is crucial for professionals to remain proactive in developing new skills and preparing for potential changes in their careers.
Note: This article reflects the personal experiences and insights of the author and is intended for informational purposes only.
