Asger Risom
At just 24, Scale AI co-founder Alexandr Wang became the youngest-ever self-made billionaire. Now he’s urging teenagers to focus on one thing that he believes can shape their futures.
At just 24, Scale AI co-founder Alexandr Wang became the youngest-ever self-made billionaire. Now he’s urging teenagers to focus on one thing that he believes can shape their futures.
From Student to Billionaire
Born in Los Alamos, New Mexico, in 1997, Wang briefly studied at MIT before leaving to launch Scale AI. By age 24, he had already amassed a billion-dollar fortune.
Early Obsession With Coding
Wang’s passion for programming started young. Before founding his company, he worked as an algorithm developer at a trading firm, honing the skills that would later define his success.
The Power of Scale AI
Founded in 2016, Scale AI provides critical software for training artificial intelligence systems. The company’s rapid rise propelled Wang into the global billionaire ranks.
His Message to Teenagers
Speaking on the TBPN podcast, Wang said every 13-year-old should dedicate themselves to AI coding: “That’s how you should live your life,” he advised.
Why AI Coding Matters
Tools like GitHub Copilot, Tabnine, and Qodo speed up development by automating tasks such as debugging and formatting. They free coders to focus on more complex work.
A Tipping Point in Technology
Wang believes the world of software is on the brink of transformation: “That moment is happening right now,” he said, stressing that early adopters will have an edge.
Code Written by AI
He predicts that within five years, nearly all the code he’s ever written could be replicated by artificial intelligence — underscoring how fast the field is moving.
Not a Reason to Quit Coding
Experts like Google Brain co-founder Andrew Ng agree that this shift shouldn’t discourage young people. As coding becomes easier, more people — not fewer — should take it up.
Communicating With Machines
According to Ng, one of the most important skills for the future will be the ability to tell computers exactly what you want them to do — a talent refined through coding.
Practice Makes Mastery
Wang echoed Malcolm Gladwell’s 10,000-hour rule, noting that those who devote enough time to experimenting with AI coding will gain a massive competitive advantage.
Preparing the Next Generation
His message is clear: teenagers who embrace AI coding today can shape the technological future — and perhaps follow his path toward extraordinary success.
This article is made and published by Asger Risom, which may have used AI in the preparation
