I thought using AI and vibe coding could protect me from job cuts, but Amazon still laid me off. Here's what I learned.

As the landscape of employment evolves with advancements in artificial intelligence, one professional shares her journey through unexpected layoffs and the lessons learned along the way. Tejal Rives, 35, a former product marketer at Amazon, found herself among 14,000 employees impacted by significant job cuts announced in late 2025. Having previously survived other layoffs, the news hit harder this time. The reality of her position being eliminated was disheartening, despite understanding the decision was not a personal one. Initially, Tejal believed that enhancing her skills in AI would protect her from job insecurity. However, despite her efforts to learn and implement AI tools like prompt engineering, she discovered that these skills did not shield her from the layoffs. Even as Amazon promoted the use of AI, she felt that her role was not easily replaceable by technology. Her experience involved using AI to assist with product descriptions, yet she found it lacking the human touch essential for effective communication. In the wake of her job loss, Tejal took a moment to reflect on her skills and the journey she undertook while at Amazon. She had ventured into vibe coding, learning to code with the help of a colleague, and hoped that showcasing her diverse skills would enhance her value within the company. Ultimately, though, this effort did not prevent her from being laid off. Following the layoff, Tejal embraced a slower pace of life, dedicating time to her family and her side business, Do My Resume LLC, which offers career coaching and résumé-writing services. She acknowledged the importance of prioritizing well-being over work commitments, realizing too late that she had sacrificed precious moments with her child. Despite the challenges, Tejal remains optimistic about the future. She emphasizes the significance of prompt engineering in AI, advocating for professionals to learn how to ask the right questions to maximize the benefits of AI tools. While she is cautious about her use of AI, she recognizes its potential to assist her business endeavors, albeit sparingly. Tejal’s story serves as a reminder that in an ever-changing job market, reskilling may not guarantee job security, but it can enhance employability. She encourages others to prepare for the possibility of layoffs, as the influence of AI in the workplace continues to grow.