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In the realm of engineering, where technical prowess often takes center stage, we sometimes overlook the human element behind the achievements. The journey to becoming a truly great engineer is as much about personal growth and resilience as it is about technical skill. My path through this profession has been shaped by universal challenges that many of us face: the push to meet societal and personal expectations, the drive for perfection, and the relentless pursuit of approval in a competitive field.

Navigating the pressures of a profession that demands constant excellence, I found myself perpetually stretched too thin, striving to juggle an endless array of tasks and responsibilities. This relentless ambition, while initially a source of motivation, soon became a cycle of self-doubt and burnout, leaving me feeling perpetually behind.

The turning point came with the realization that my quest for perfection was setting me up for an impossible standard. Embracing self-reflection, I began to understand the importance of establishing healthier boundaries and being kinder to myself. Learning that perfection is unattainable, and appreciating my progress for what it is, marked the beginning of a more balanced approach to both my career and personal life.

This journey towards self-awareness and change has been pivotal, not just in how I view my professional achievements, but in understanding what it truly means to excel in engineering. Excellence isn’t solely defined by our ability to solve complex problems or master the latest technologies. It’s also about how we manage ourselves, our resilience in facing setbacks, and our capacity for continuous personal growth.

As we explore the traits that define great engineers, let’s bear in mind that behind every technical skill lies a personal story of perseverance, learning, and self-discovery. The qualities of self-management, ownership, and the drive for continuous improvement reflect not just professional virtues but our personal journeys towards achieving true excellence in our field.

The Top 3 Traits of Potentially Great Engineers

1. Self-Management: The Keystone of Professional Growth

The ability to self-manage stands paramount among the traits I value. In the fast-paced world of engineering, managers simply cannot afford the time to handhold every team member. It’s not scalable, nor is it effective for either party involved. Engineers who demonstrate a high level of self-management not only gain the trust of their managers but also free up their leaders to focus on broader strategic goals — potentially accelerating their own career progression in the process.

Self-management involves consistently solving problems, making progress independently, and knowing when (and how) to seek strategic guidance rather than tactical hand-holding. This trait enables both the engineer and their manager to spend valuable time discussing career trajectories and next steps, rather than getting bogged down in day-to-day tasks that could be handled independently.

2. Sense of Ownership and Responsibility

A strong sense of ownership and responsibility is what differentiates a good engineer from a great one. Engineers with this trait treat projects as their own, ensuring not just completion but excellence. They are proactive in identifying and addressing issues, always looking for ways to improve the product and the process. This sense of ownership fosters a deep-rooted commitment to quality and success, aligning personal achievements with the company’s goals.

3. Drive and Motivation for Improving

The drive to continuously improve is a hallmark of a great engineer. This doesn’t just apply to their technical skills but also to their soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and leadership. Engineers with a high level of drive and motivation seek out feedback, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and are constantly looking for ways to enhance their abilities and the effectiveness of their team.

The Impact of Being a Team Player

The ability to elevate those around you is an often overlooked but incredibly significant trait of a great engineer. Being a team player involves more than just collaborating on projects; it’s about making others around you better through positive feedback, sharing knowledge, and fostering an environment of support and encouragement.

Overcoming the “Disease to Please”

Many engineers, especially those in senior roles, struggle with the urge to please everyone — a trait that can significantly hinder one’s ability to make tough decisions and earn the respect and trust of their team. The courage to make difficult calls, even when they’re unpopular, is essential for the long-term benefit of the team and the project.

To combat this, engineers must embrace a mindset of “Courage and Kindness,” where honest and direct communication is balanced with respect and empathy. Preparation and practice are key to conveying genuine thoughts and feedback, even in challenging situations. Sometimes, stepping out of one’s comfort zone and embracing discomfort can be the best way to grow.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Code

In the journey of engineering, it’s easy to get caught up in the technicalities and forget that the core of professional advancement and personal fulfillment lies beyond just technical skill. The real markers of an exceptional engineer are found in their attitude, their mindset, and in those crucial, yet often overlooked traits that spell the difference between good and great.

Embracing self-management frees up time for strategic growth, while a sense of ownership ensures dedication to excellence. The drive to continuously improve keeps an engineer relevant and innovative. Moreover, being a team player not only elevates the individual but also the collective strength of the team. These are the pillars upon which the foundation of an impactful engineering career is built.

As we navigate our careers, let’s remind ourselves that our potential to excel in engineering—or in any field—transcends our current technical abilities. It’s rooted in how we manage ourselves, how we interact with our work and those around us, and how we face challenges and opportunities for growth. Herein lies the path to true engineering excellence.

References and Further Reading

For those interested in diving deeper into the concepts discussed and exploring related insights, the following resources are highly recommended:

• “Don’t Be Nice, Be Authentic” on The People’s Software Engineer. A compelling read that emphasizes the importance of authenticity over niceness, shedding light on the importance of genuine communication in the workplace. Read more.
• “How to Set Boundaries and Stop People-Pleasing at Work” on LeadDev. This article offers practical advice on establishing healthy boundaries and overcoming the tendency to please others, crucial for personal development and leadership. Read more.