He implies that this somehow falls into “socitech” ability, which it is not. Maintainable code is precise, well-factored code — almost pedantic — which requires an orthogonal (if not counterpointed) talent to the more “social” talents. I would go further to say that a mathematical understanding or at least inclination is required to write maintainable code. (In the sense that the same is required to write a readable academic paper.)
Another assumption he seems to make here is that somehow there are all these algorithmic hackers who sit and write algorithms all day. No, I doubt this has been some kind of norm ever. Most of what we (business software) programmers write is business logic and data processing with an occasional, infrequent need — but need nevertheless — to break out a unique algorithm.
You can scale up all you want and into the future but we are always going to need to understand the difference between a O(n^2) and O(n) algorithm.
I’m sick of these kinds of pieces that are pure philistinism. The future isn’t going to save you from your lack of technical skills, education and awareness. Stay curious and develop yourself — your social self as much as your craft and profession.