Well, we are in the peak of a wave of hype about AI/ML, maybe even just past that peak. Many fundamental technological advancements in the field of AI/ML have

Well, we are in the peak of a wave of hype about AI/ML, maybe even just past that peak. Many fundamental technological advancements in the field of AI/ML have sort of coalesced together at the current time to form a strong feature set that can be more broadly applied by a wider audience, not just those hardcore computer scientists who invented the technology. I've been in the thick of this previously, facing a complex rules-based engine that did most of its incredible feats in the fraud detection domain using a number of really complicated SQL queries. At the same time, I've used the results of such queries combined together with machine learning and predictive analytics, giving you the best of both worlds. Both have strengths and weaknesses. These are tools in the toolbox, and I think the adage "try to use the best tool for the job" still applies. Sometimes, you use the tool you have and you know, and all the more power to you if you can get the job done using that tool. If you are a master of that tool (i.e. SQL in this case), you can often push its capabilities very, very far. That said, I think the best thing to do right now is try to separate the signal from the noise regarding AI/ML and find what really works and what does not. Then find how these new tools can either complement or replace previous approaches. I think they work together quite nicely - and we see that sometimes, for example, with AI/ML tools integrated close to SQL engines. AI/ML has a place, and so does SQL. I will say, though, that I for one don't want to be caught on the side of the discussion where I don't learn enough about what is possible with AI/ML, and then get left behind. I think many of my colleagues and professionals in the field and here on YC feel similarly. Actually, I think even non-technical people feel the same way - the fear of being replaced by AI/ML is higher than ever. So, keep applying SQL and get that low-hanging fruit. But make sure to learn the new stuff too, and add it to your toolbox.