What Type Of Person Thrives In Software According To A Google Site Reliability Manager
David, a Site Reliability Manager at Google, highlights the diverse talent within the software industry, stating that "it really takes all kinds," and advises against limiting oneself to a specific title like "Python programmer." Instead, the focus should be on developing broad skills applicable across various fields, recognizing the transferable nature of abilities and the potential for career transitions, given the industry's evolution and the ever-changing skillset demands.
Adaptability, Problem-solving, Flexibility, Broad Skill Set, Continuous Learning
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
David Fayram
Site Reliability Manager
University of California, Santa Barbara
None
Computer Science
Energy & Utilities, Technology, Advertising, Communications & Marketing
Cyber Security and IT
Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, LGBTQ
Video Highlights
1. Adaptability and flexibility are key to thriving in the tech industry, as the field is constantly evolving.
2. Don't limit yourself to a specific programming language or niche; focus on developing broad skills applicable to various areas.
3. Software engineering skills are transferable, enabling career transitions to other fields and vice-versa
Transcript
Q8: Who thrives in industry?
How would you describe people who typically thrive in this industry?
I'd say it really takes all kinds; I don't think there's a single archetype. This is probably because software is a young industry.
I think there's a survivorship bias around people who are flexible and can adapt to changes over time. The things I've done throughout my career have changed so much since I started; it's hard to even articulate the full arc and span of it.
My advice is: don't be a Python programmer, a Rust developer, someone who codes systems, a graphics person, or even a game developer. Those are mistakes.
Instead, think of yourself as having a series of broad skills that let you use computers to help with processes. Think about all the things you could do and what's the minimum delta between your skillset and what you need to know to do them.
When you look at it, you'll see many astronomers, doctors, and other people come into the software engineering field. There's no reason you can't go the other way, because software can help you do things more effectively. So, think about it from that perspective.