By Sumit Jangir
Publication Date: 2026-10-30 17:30:00
SAN FRANCISCO (Diya TV) — As artificial intelligence reshapes the workplace, young workers face growing uncertainty about their careers. Many companies plan to reduce entry-level hiring as AI tools take over routine tasks. However, Cisco President and Chief Product Officer Jeetu Patel believes young employees could play a crucial role in shaping the future of technology.
Instead of viewing Gen Z as an inexperienced workforce, Patel wants companies to recognize its potential to challenge traditional thinking. He recently gave a major technology project to a 27-year-old employee who joined Cisco after founding a startup. The move reflects his belief that fresh ideas and technical skills matter more than years of experience.
Patel has tasked the young employee with an ambitious goal: rewriting 98% of Cisco’s legacy code within 24 months. He believes artificial intelligence can help the company complete the project much faster than traditional methods.
