Is 2025 too late to start coding?

Three years ago, Rjay Solamo hadn’t written a single smart contract. Now, he’s building on Solana, specializing in Rust, and carving out a career in blockchain development. He’s not alone—more newcomers are entering the space than ever. So, is 2025 the right time to start coding?

Experts told The Crypto Radio that demand for blockchain developers is rising, but so are the challenges. As industries adopt decentralized tech, developers must adapt to new skill sets, avoid common pitfalls, and stay ahead of emerging trends.

Rod Albores, founder of RER Dao and brand ambassador for Peaq, put it simply:

"Demand will increase sharply, especially for developers skilled in AI, RWA (Real-World Assets), and DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks)."

The skills that will set developers apart in 2025

Albores predicts that developers who combine blockchain expertise with AI skills will be at the forefront of the transformation. The convergence of real-world asset tokenization and decentralized infrastructure is already shaping new hybrid roles in tech.

New talent echoes this optimism. Solamo, who embarked on his blockchain journey in 2022, succinctly put it:

"For me, the demand for blockchain developers will likely increase in 2025."

This growing demand is further underscored by a focus on evolving skill sets. Solamo, for example, has chosen to specialize early by embracing emerging technologies. He explains his approach to mastering high-performance blockchain ecosystems:

"While both Rust and Solidity are essential for smart contract development, I have chosen to focus on Rust for now,” he said. “There are still very few web3 developers specializing in Rust, giving me a competitive advantage in the field. Rust is also faster, more secure, and highly efficient, making it the ideal choice for high performance blockchain ecosystems like Solana."

For those just starting out, choosing the right programming language can be a decisive factor. Christine Erispe, a blockchain developer at Ethereum Philippines, offers clear advice for newcomers:

"I highly recommend Solidity and Foundry for new developers. It is easier to learn and resources are everywhere."

As blockchain technology expands, developers must balance versatility with focused expertise—mastering key tools while remaining adaptable to new innovations.

AI won’t replace developers—but here’s how it will help

Artificial intelligence is increasingly becoming an integral part of the tech ecosystem, and its influence on blockchain development is unmistakable. Rather than replacing developers, AI is poised to serve as an invaluable assistant—streamlining processes and enhancing security.

Across our interviews, there is consensus that AI will act as a supportive tool. By automating routine tasks such as code generation and debugging, AI promises to free developers to focus on creative and strategic challenges. This sentiment was clearly articulated by Solamo:

"AI is a tool, not a replacement that’s why I tell my web3 friends learning web3 development skills not to be afraid to use AI.”

Erispe reinforces this view, emphasizing that while AI can manage tasks like scripting and security audits, it lacks the nuanced judgment required for complex design decisions:

"AI will assist developers in tasks like scripting, auditing, and creating POCs (proof of concepts) but I don't think it can replace developers who understand the rationale behind the engineers' design decisions."

This blend of technology and human creativity is critical. While AI enhances efficiency and helps mitigate risks such as security vulnerabilities, the role of the developer remains central in conceptualizing and executing robust blockchain solutions. Developers who learn to leverage AI effectively can not only accelerate development cycles but also improve the quality of their projects.

What beginner blockchain developers get wrong

Entering the blockchain development space comes with a unique set of challenges. Both experienced professionals and newcomers highlight several pitfalls that can impede progress if not addressed early on. Avoiding these missteps is essential for long-term success in an industry characterized by rapid innovation.

New developers are often tempted to jump straight into coding without establishing a solid foundational setup. Experts stress that the groundwork—from choosing the right tools to understanding the core principles of blockchain technology—is critical. Albores shared four major pitfalls for new developers.

• Poor environment setup: Skipping tools like Ganache

• Ignoring collaboration: Blockchain projects require teamwork

• Overlooking security: Smart contracts without audits

• Neglecting scalability: Not learning from Layer 2 solutions

Erispe offers a complementary perspective, emphasizing that a thorough understanding of blockchain fundamentals should come before diving into specific programming languages:

"Starting with learning a language. No, you should start by understanding how smart contracts and cryptography works in the blockchain, and where they are being used. Picking a tech stack is secondary."

Industries hiring blockchain developers in 2025

Blockchain isn’t just about crypto anymore. Governments, healthcare, supply chains, and even entertainment are now exploring decentralized technology to enhance security and efficiency.

These sectors see blockchain as a tool to address long standing challenges, from bureaucratic inefficiencies to the need for robust data verification, according to Albores.

• Government: Adopting blockchain for secure data storage (e.g., voter systems, identity management) and reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies

• Healthcare: Using blockchain to secure patient records, track pharmaceuticals, and manage clinical trials

• Supply chain: Enhancing transparency (e.g., tracking product origins, preventing counterfeits, suppliers to buyers)

• Manufacturing/businesses: Streamlining data, feeds and verifying component authenticity

Erispe notes that demand is expanding beyond the usual sectors:

"Aside from the mentioned (finance, healthcare, gaming), I'm seeing demand from entertainment, public goods, supply chain, even from government agencies."

This widening scope gives developers opportunities to apply blockchain solutions to real-world challenges, from improving government efficiency to securing healthcare data.

Insights from Rod Albores, Rjay Solamo, and Christine Erispe highlight a rapidly evolving landscape—where demand is rising, skill sets are diversifying, and AI is becoming an essential tool. Success in this field requires a strong foundation, adaptability, and continuous learning.

As blockchain expands beyond crypto, developers will play a key role in shaping its future. Those who embrace new technologies and learn from industry leaders will be well-positioned for success in 2025 and beyond.