UW News

Samuel So

May 14, 2025

Q&A: UW researcher discusses the “cruel optimism” of tech industry layoffs

people walk through a large, dark room towards the exit door

In 2023, University of Washington researchers recruited a group of 29 laid-off U.S. tech workers to discuss the effects of recent mass layoffs on employees. Overall, the group was ambivalent about tech work. They said it was often unfulfilling, despite their plans to continue in the industry.