San Francisco, CA – The story of an Indian-American tech professional in San Francisco is highlighting the shifting landscape of the tech industry and the challenges faced by even seasoned workers. After a 25-year career that included positions at major companies like Apple, Cognizant, and Verizon, the individual, who immigrated to the U.S. in 2007 on an H-1B visa and later became a citizen, is now driving for Uber following a recent layoff from Cognizant.
Ronald Netawat, an engineer at Antim Labs, shared his experience on social media after learning about his Uber driver's extensive background. Netawat's driver had worked as a project manager and even served as a CTO for an IT company. Despite holding U.S. citizenship, the driver was unable to secure another position in his field after the layoff.
This situation has sparked discussions about the stability of tech careers, especially for those who came to the U.S. on H-1B visas. While the driver's citizenship offered some security, it wasn't enough to shield him from the current wave of layoffs impacting the tech sector. Some observers suggest that tightening H-1B rules and increased fees for companies hiring foreign workers may be contributing to the pressure faced by immigrants in the industry.
The tech industry has experienced significant job cuts in recent years. In 2025, approximately 89,964 employees from 204 companies have been laid off. Several major tech companies, including Meta, Google, Autodesk, and Microsoft, have announced job cuts this year. Some companies attribute these layoffs to the increasing adoption of artificial intelligence and the need for a leaner workforce.
The rising cost of living in San Francisco adds another layer of complexity to the situation. San Francisco's cost of living is significantly higher than the national average. Housing costs are particularly high, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around $3,019. The estimated monthly costs for a single person are $1,606.7, excluding rent. These high costs can make it challenging for displaced tech workers to maintain their standard of living while searching for new employment.
The Uber driver's story serves as a reminder of the challenges and risks faced by tech professionals, even those with extensive experience and citizenship. The current wave of layoffs, driven by factors such as AI adoption and economic shifts, coupled with the high cost of living in cities like San Francisco, creates a difficult environment for those seeking to remain in the industry.
