Artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly embedded in everyday workflows, especially within computing. We are gradually moving toward an AI‑rich future—an imminent yet still uncertain scenario. A key concern is whether we are adequately preparing the next generation of computing professionals, and which cognitive skills will remain essential or shift in importance.\ \ To address this, we conducted a mixed‑methods study that gathered perceptions from computing students and industry experts about the importance of various cognitive skills in the past, present, and future. The results indicate that, in an AI‑rich environment, the perceived importance of most cognitive skills is expected to decline, while critical thinking continues to be valued.\ \ Interviews provided deeper insights into why these shifts occur and yielded recommendations for future computing students: develop proficiency with AI tools, cultivate interdisciplinary thinking, maintain a solid grasp of core algorithmic principles, and enhance abilities in critical evaluation and ethical judgment.\ \ Review