What is science other than a set of theories? My quibble here is mainly definitional- I think there could be a world where engineering is post-theory; i.e. where most problems are solved by ai without anyone understanding how. Science though, is about developing an understanding of a phenomena, and science prescribes that proof of understanding should be codified into testable theories.
Also if theory is dead why are the scientists they interview in this piece obsessed with generating new theory...