These 7 companies are increasing hiring of entry-level engineers
Business Insider
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries, some companies are betting big on the future by expanding their hiring of entry-level engineers. Despite concerns about AI replacing entry-level roles, major tech firms like IBM, LinkedIn, Dropbox, and Cognizant are investing in early-career talent, recognizing the value these individuals bring to innovation and adaptability. This shift highlights a growing confidence in the potential of fresh, AI-fluent talent to drive future success.
IBM is tripling its entry-level hiring in 2026, signaling a strategic focus on early-career engineers who can navigate both traditional coding tasks and AI-assisted workflows. Similarly, LinkedIn is expanding its engineering internship program by 40%, targeting AI-native candidates with a "builder mindset." These companies are not just filling roles; they're fostering the next generation of tech leaders capable of leveraging AI for creative problem-solving.
Cognizant aims to quadruple its pipeline of early-career talent, aiming to hire up to 2,000 new graduates by year-end. The company emphasizes the competitive edge these hires bring as "AI-natives" and lifelong learners. Cloudflare is also investing in the future with plans to hire 1,111 interns in 2026, nearly tripling its previous program. These initiatives underscore a broader industry trend: companies are doubling down on entry-level hiring to build diverse, innovative teams that can thrive in an evolving tech landscape.
For businesses, this focus on early-career talent matters because it positions them for long-term success. By nurturing the skills and perspectives of younger workers, companies are investing in a workforce ready to tackle future challenges.
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/24/2026