The Future of Software Engineering: Cognition’s Russell Kaplan

Oct 9, 2025

Joining the discussion is Russell Kaplan, President of Cognition AI, who is pioneering the future of software engineering with Devin, an autonomous AI software engineer. Kaplan explores the evolution of AI agents, highlighting how they can complete complex tasks autonomously. He shares insights on enhancing collaboration between human engineers and AI, and the potential for broader software creation by non-coders. Kaplan also discusses the constraints of energy and compute resources as pivotal challenges for scaling AI technologies.

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INSIGHT

Autonomous Agents Replace Simple Copilots

Cognition built autonomous coding agents that can take end-to-end projects to completion.
These agents deliver tested, iterated code ready for production rather than just suggestions.

ANECDOTE

Weekend Studio Built By Devin

Marco used Devin to build a production-ready studio AI in about ten weekend hours.
Devin even added a nuanced UI detail automatically, improving user experience.

ADVICE

Decompose Work For Agent Delegation

Break complex projects into delegable units so AI agents can execute them.
Develop the skill to scope and steer agents to get high-leverage results.

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Software engineering is being redefined with AI agents that can autonomously complete complex tasks, says Russell Kaplan, president of Cognition AI. In conversation with Marco Argenti, Chief Information Officer at Goldman Sachs, Kaplan discusses the company's AI software engineer, Devin, the evolution of AI coding tools, and the skills required to thrive in this new paradigm.

This episode was recorded on July 18, 2025.

The opinions and views expressed herein are as of the date of publication, subject to change without notice, and may not necessarily reflect the institutional views of Goldman Sachs or its affiliates. The material provided is intended for informational purposes only, and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation from any Goldman Sachs entity to take any particular action, or an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any securities or financial products. This material may contain forward-looking statements. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Neither Goldman Sachs nor any of its affiliates make any representations or warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of the statements or information contained herein and disclaim any liability whatsoever for reliance on such information for any purpose. Each name of a third-party organization mentioned is the property of the company to which it relates, is used here strictly for informational and identification purposes only and is not used to imply any ownership or license rights between any such company and Goldman Sachs.

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