I know exactly how you feel. I don't know how many hours I sat in front of this debugger (https://www.jasik.com) poking around and trying to learn everything at a lower level. Now its so different.
Anyone know of any similar stories like this one? I don't know why, but I really enjoy reading these and hearing the thought process and decisions made.
I really hope that once people start seeing more AI generated images they get the urge to move back to natural photography. Maybe this will even inspire people to go retro and consider film. When I look at older photos taken with a camera and film I think about all the work it took to get that shot. The travel, the gear, the waiting for the right light. Brings a smile to my face.
I don't work for Facebook/Meta... but get rid of the open floor plans, go back to real cubicles (the ones with the taller walls) and provide a decent cafeteria... I don't mind paying for my meals... and I would head back to the office.
My simple advice... Your attitude is everything. Be open to learning and doing anything that needs to be done. Be a team player. Offer to help team mates. There is no time for that perfect solution. Always think big picture before digging into details. Find the one guy on the team that knows pretty much everything about the product/code and study his ways.