Part I. Overview

Software engineering is more than just a job. It's a world of magic, creativity, and real value. Many of us feel excited about creating something amazing from just ideas. We enjoy solving tricky problems. And we feel satisfied when we see that our work helps many users.

A typical day for a software engineer involves coding, solving problems, working with a team, and always learning. The appeal of software engineering is in how it always changes, brings new challenges, and offers better ways to solve problems. However, this area really needs good communication. Except when working alone, software engineering is all about teamwork. It's more challenging to use a language that is not your mother tongue. To handle these challenges, it's crucial to set aside time and space for solving problems without interruptions. Good managers create such a helpful environment. In addition to communication, the variety of technologies to learn and apply in this field encompasses a broad area of knowledge, blending science and practical use. To navigate this domain effectively, one needs adept guidance, especially in the form of a mentor or a tech lead.

Engineering Leads do more than just manage—they are great at creating top-notch software. They're not just good at coding, but they're also strong leaders. This makes them stand out as Engineering Leads, not just as managers or tech leads. They show a mix of technical skills and management abilities, often fitting the role of a tech lead manager.