Are you folk still coding

Are you folk still coding?

Are You Folk Still Coding?

In the fast-paced world of technology, the role of an engineering manager often shifts dramatically as one progresses in their career. For those of us in the industry, especially at large firms, the transition from hands-on coding to a more managerial and strategic role can sometimes leave us pondering our connection to the craft we love.

The Balancing Act of Leadership

As an engineering manager, my responsibilities have grown beyond just writing code. A significant portion of my time now revolves around shepherding work across teams, facilitating communication, and ensuring that projects move forward smoothly. While these tasks are vital for team cohesion and project success, they often come at the cost of hands-on coding time.

I find myself in a position where I occasionally glance at pull requests (PRs) but struggle to dive deep enough to provide meaningful feedback. The reality is, with so many responsibilities, I often refrain from giving an approval unless I’m certain I can contribute comprehensively. This raises a critical question: does stepping back from coding hinder my effectiveness as a leader?

The Implications of Not Coding

The concern about losing touch with the technical aspects of our work is valid. As technology evolves, staying updated with the latest tools, languages, and frameworks can be challenging when your day-to-day responsibilities shift. Here are some potential pitfalls of not coding regularly:

  1. Diminishing Technical Credibility: Team members often look to their leaders for guidance. If you are out of touch with current technologies or coding practices, it may undermine your credibility and the trust your team has in your decisions.

  2. Limited Problem-Solving Skills: Remaining engaged with coding helps sharpen your problem-solving skills. When you step back, you may find it harder to relate to the challenges your team faces, leading to less effective support.

  3. Disconnect with Team Dynamics: Coding fosters collaboration and camaraderie among team members. By stepping away from the codebase, you might miss out on the nuances of team dynamics and the culture that develops around code contributions.

Proven Methodologies to Stay Engaged

While it may not be feasible to code daily, there are strategies to maintain your technical edge:

  • Dedicated Learning Time: Allocate specific time each week to explore new technologies or work on small coding projects. This could include contributing to open source or even personal projects that excite you.

  • Code Reviews as Learning Opportunities: Instead of viewing code reviews as a chore, approach them as an opportunity to learn. Even if you can’t provide extensive feedback, engaging with the code gives you insight into your team’s work and the technology stack.

  • Pair Programming: Engaging in pair programming sessions with team members can be incredibly beneficial. It allows you to contribute while also mentoring, fostering a collaborative spirit.

  • Regular Tech Talks: Encourage team members to present new tools or projects in regular meetings. This keeps you in the loop and helps you learn from your team.

A Personal Anecdote

I recall a time when I was managing a significant project that involved a new technology stack. While I had transitioned away from coding, I made it a point to take a weekend to familiarize myself with the framework. This not only helped me understand the challenges my team faced but also enabled me to contribute meaningfully in discussions and decision-making. The result? A stronger bond with my team and greater confidence in our collective direction.

Conclusion

While stepping away from coding can come with its challenges, it doesn’t have to signify a disconnect from your passion or your team. Balancing managerial responsibilities with technical engagement is crucial for maintaining credibility and effectiveness in your role.

So, to all my fellow engineering managers out there: Are you still coding? How do you stay engaged with the craft while managing your teams? Let’s discuss!

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