S3:E02 - Should Engineering Managers Code?
S03:E02

S3:E02 - Should Engineering Managers Code?

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Episode description

Should Engineering Managers Code?

In this episode, we explore different perspectives, considering both current job market trends and organizational needs. We emphasize the advantages of managers being technical, covering scenarios where coding might be beneficial or detrimental. We outline the main areas engineering managers should focus on: execution, team health, and individual development. Towards the end, we touch on the concept of career pendulums between management and coding roles, and share insights from Git Guardian’s approach to balancing manager duties with coding. We conclude by acknowledging the complexities and advocating for context-aware, principle-driven decisions.

0:00Introduction
0:25Should Engineering Managers Code?
3:37The Role of an EM
6:46Balancing Coding and Management
9:52Technical vs. Coding Skills
16:09Avoiding Common Pitfalls
18:26Effective Technical Contributions
21:12Manager Participation in Teams
22:18Non-Technical Managers
27:52The EM-IC Pendulum
32:55Hands-On Engineering Managers at GitGuardian
37:16Summary and Final Thoughts