AI Tools for Network Operations: A Reality Check from the Trenches
Everyone's talking about AI for network operations, but what's actually working? A practical look at AI tools for network monitoring and troubleshooting - the real ROI, team adoption challenges, vendor evaluation pitfalls, and what's worth your time versus what's just marketing hype.
Both Sides of the Desk: Burnout (The Manager's Perspective)
The second post in the "Both Sides of the Desk" series examines burnout from the manager's viewpoint. From handling team members who are burned out to managing unrealistic executive expectations while fighting your own exhaustion and imposter syndrome - the reality of management burnout that nobody talks about.
What I Look for When Hiring Network Engineers: Beyond the Resume
A hiring manager's honest perspective on what really matters when evaluating network engineering candidates - from resume screening to technical validation. Learn how to stand out in the hiring process and avoid the common disconnect between interview performance and actual technical capability.
5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Network Engineering Manager
Real talk from a new network engineering manager about the unexpected challenges, hard lessons, and things nobody tells you before you take on your first management role. If you're considering management or just started, these insights might save you some painful learning experiences.
Leading Remote Network Engineering Teams: Why Location Shouldn't Matter in 2025
As businesses push for return-to-office mandates, network engineering remains one of the most location-independent technical disciplines. This post explores why network engineers can work effectively from anywhere, how to lead distributed technical teams, and why smart organizations are embracing remote-first approaches for technical talent.
Managing Up as a Technical Manager: Getting What Your Team Needs
As a technical manager, your success depends not just on managing your team downward, but on effectively managing up to secure resources, remove obstacles, and shield your team from organizational politics. This guide covers practical strategies for advocating upward and getting what your team needs to succeed.
Building High-Performing Network Engineering Teams: Beyond Technical Skills
Creating a high-performing network engineering team requires more than hiring skilled technicians. This comprehensive guide covers hiring strategies, team dynamics, skill development, and the cultural elements that separate good network teams from exceptional ones
The Technical Manager's Dilemma: Staying Current While Leading People
The struggle is real for technical managers trying to maintain their technical edge while effectively leading people. This post explores why trying to be both the top technical expert and the manager usually leads to failure at both, and provides practical strategies for finding the right balance.