We're not innovating, we're just forgetting slower

> They can deploy applications to Kubernetes clusters but couldn’t design a simple op-amp circuit.

If the thesis is that we should understand the systems we work on, then sure, I can get behind that. At the same time, I wouldn't expect a mechanic to know how to process iron ore into an ingot.

Machinists know their materials. They might not know every step to process it, but they understand the manufacturing process of different kinds of metals and their properties.

They definitely don't "vibe machine" without thinking about underlying concepts.

Software engineers aren't to computers as mechanics are to cars. The closest correlate is, like, automotive engineers working at Ford or Toyota; and I would 100% expect that someone involved in the process at those companies has reasonably deep knowledge about, for example, the structural characteristics of casted metal.

As a redneck I think you vastly underestimate the prolifity of vibe machining

I am sure hobbysts vibe machine a lot, and there's nothing wrong with that, but that's not supposed to be representative of the industry.