The AI engineer assembles systems on foundation models — they don't train them. Tap a layer: the field's options, and a recommended starting pick for each.
THE WIRE
Python runs ~95% of the AI ecosystem. TypeScript covers frontends, demos, and TS-native agent frameworks.
THE OPTIONS · ★ = learn first
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Python + FastAPI — the must-have — every framework assumes it
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TypeScript — Mastra & Vercel AI SDK are TS-native — handy for full-stack work
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uv / poetry — modern Python dependency management
FOR YOU
If you already code in any language, the gap is small: ~1 week to be functional in Python + FastAPI. Everything else transfers.
concepts are durable, frameworks are swappable — never pick by GitHub stars · last reviewed 2026-06