Chapter 1: The Evolving Landscape of Engineering

With over twenty years in the IT field, I've witnessed significant changes. While technology has undoubtedly evolved, the essence of what it means to be a good engineer remains largely unchanged.

The landscape of technology has transformed dramatically, yet the core principles of engineering endure. Many engineers, including myself, enter the workforce believing that mastering technology is the key to success. However, as our careers progress, we come to realize that technology is just one component of a much larger framework.

We are often inundated with trends like augmented reality, artificial intelligence, the internet of things, and more. The prevailing narrative suggests that keeping up with these innovations will enhance our employability. Yet, the reality is that technical knowledge alone does not define marketability or engineering prowess. Educational institutions have equipped us with the skills to learn new technologies, making it accessible for anyone willing to invest the time.

Accessibility to information has leveled the playing field significantly. I am not advocating that you should cease learning or ignore emerging technologies. However, it’s worth noting that programming languages like COBOL, created in 1959, are still in demand today. As organizations migrate COBOL operations to the cloud, engineers proficient in this language can command high salaries.

So, if chasing trends isn't the solution, what truly matters?

From my perspective, the distinguishing factor that often determines an engineer’s success is their interpersonal skills.

In this series, titled "Becoming a Better Engineer," I will explore the key people skills that I consider essential for engineers.