Research Article

From Engineer to Leader: Navigating the Technical Leadership Transition

Authors

  • Sruthi Deva Louisiana State University, USA

Abstract

The transition from technical expert to engineering leader represents a profound professional evolution that challenges even the most accomplished engineers. This article explores the competency gap between technical mastery and leadership effectiveness, identifying key strategic capabilities necessary for successful transitions. The pathway requires developing business-aligned strategic thinking, sophisticated stakeholder communication, team amplification skills, and structured decision frameworks. Through deliberate preparation strategies, technical experts can build leadership portfolios before assuming formal roles, develop cross-functional fluency, and establish feedback mechanisms to accelerate growth. Common pitfalls include retreating to technical work when facing leadership challenges, reluctance to delegate effectively, and applying purely technical solutions to organizational problems. By understanding these challenges and implementing targeted countermeasures, senior engineers can transform from individual contributors into effective leaders who drive organizational success through collective effort rather than personal technical contribution.

Article information

Journal

Journal of Computer Science and Technology Studies

Volume (Issue)

7 (3)

Pages

580-591

Published

2025-05-07

How to Cite

Sruthi Deva. (2025). From Engineer to Leader: Navigating the Technical Leadership Transition. Journal of Computer Science and Technology Studies, 7(3), 580-591. https://doi.org/10.32996/jcsts.2025.7.3.66

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Keywords:

Competency Development, Delegation Frameworks, Engineering Leadership, Technical Transition, Talent Amplification