he is now being paid thru vibe coding as his client doesn't care about the code behind and care only on the "current" outcome
Software developers call themselves all kinds of incorrect bullshit because nobody tells them otherwise.
In the real world, though, engineers measure things. If a given developer calls themselves engineer but cannot measure things they probably aren't what they claim. This runs deeper than just job titles.
In the 1700's, "executive" referred to a person or group holding supreme legal power
In the 1900's, "executive" described high ranking business people.
In the 2000's, a junior sales rep, 3 months out of high school, will be given the title of account executive.
—The Grand Turk
Two common key points about engineering is understanding and responsibility when issues happen. Knowing what to change and why and diagnosing the problem and confidently fixing it when the system goes wrong.
Anyone can play Microsoft Flight simulator.
Does that mean everyone is a qualified captain to fly a commercial plane full of passengers?