The blog of James Rumkee
I'm an engineering manager with over twenty years in software, currently leading cross-functional teams building AI-driven products. Most days, the hard part is still the people stuff. This is where I write about that, and what I'm learning as teams work out where AI is genuinely useful.
I and many other engineering managers right now seem to be squeezed between two kinds of certainty: hype from above, scepticism from below, both formed honestly and both probably overdue a second look. On why opinions set like stone in both directions, and what actually unsticks them.
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About the author
I'm James Rumkee, an Engineering Manager at Trilateral Research with over twenty years in software. I lead cross-functional teams building AI-driven products and help engineers and new managers grow.
Finding the right guidance can make a huge difference to where a career ends up. What a good mentor actually does, why outside advice is often the most honest kind, and how to find a mentor of your own.
Part two is where it actually gets built: wiring the light up to the Pi, hooking it into my Teams status, and finally watching it glow red on cue. It doesn't look all that pretty, but it works (much like myself in that regard).
This one started in lockdown, with my family inadvertently making appearances on my calls. What I needed was one of those red illuminated 'on air' lights they have outside broadcast rooms, so I decided to build my own.
No one needs a Stream Deck, everything it does could be a keyboard shortcut instead. But there is something genuinely delightful about a physical button with a picture on it, and it has quietly become the most useful thing on my desk.
A positive work environment leads to engaged people, and engaged people do better work. Some practical strategies I use as a manager, starting with the slightly awkward truth that it all begins with your own behaviour.
Technical skills might get you into the room, but emotional intelligence is what makes you effective once you're in it. Why I think EQ is a must-have skill for anyone working in a business, and some ways to start improving yours.