The Generalist Engineer: A Software Engineer’s Perspective

After 30 years as a software engineer, I’ve learned something essential: It’s perfectly OK—perhaps even ideal—to be a generalist.

Three Decades Across Tech Domains

Throughout my career, I’ve written device drivers, experimented with immersive 3D environments, designed audio systems, built game engines, created software for flight testing and simulation, and explored deep data analysis. I’ve authored a book on modern C++ and successfully deployed a commercial Python application. I’ve even ventured into creative coding and coding as art, pushing software beyond functionality into the realm of expression.

Specialists vs. Generalists: Insights from David Epstein’s ‘Range’

The debate between specialization and generalization isn’t new. David Epstein, in his book “Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World,” makes a compelling argument for embracing a breadth of experience. Epstein observes that generalists often outperform specialists in environments where complexity and uncertainty dominate, precisely because they can leverage analogies and knowledge across different fields.

Research Spotlight: Innovation at the Crossroads

Research backs this up. Studies show that innovation frequently arises at the intersection of disciplines, where ideas from one domain illuminate novel solutions in another. Steve Jobs famously emphasized connecting dots across diverse experiences as a critical factor in Apple’s success. The polymaths of history—from Leonardo da Vinci to modern-day innovators like Elon Musk—repeatedly demonstrate that broad, varied knowledge doesn’t dilute expertise; instead, it enhances creativity and problem-solving.

Adapting with Agility: The Generalist Advantage in Technology

In software engineering specifically, technology evolves rapidly, and narrowly focused skill sets quickly risk obsolescence. Adaptability becomes a superpower. Being fluent in multiple programming languages, such as C++ and Python, and having hands-on experience in vastly different domains—like game development, aviation simulation, and data analytics—equips you with the agility to adapt and thrive amidst rapid technological shifts.

Humility and Growth: Essential Traits of a Successful Generalist

Being a generalist also demands humility. You must honestly accept you’ll sometimes be wrong, that you’ll frequently step out of your comfort zone, and that you’ll constantly learn from experts who specialize deeply in their fields. This humility is powerful. It cultivates an openness to new information and feedback, facilitating continuous growth and improvement.

Ray Dalio, in his influential book Principles, stresses the importance of genuinely believing that you might be wrong. Dalio argues that acknowledging fallibility is a fundamental trait of highly successful people, fostering an openness to continuous learning and improvement. As generalists, this philosophy resonates deeply; our wide-ranging experiences teach us firsthand that expertise is never absolute. By honestly embracing the possibility of error, we remain adaptable, receptive to new insights, and perpetually growing; qualities essential to thriving across diverse domains.

Unexpected Connections: How Diverse Skills Inform Better Solutions

This approach has allowed me to find unexpected connections and insights. Techniques from real-time systems engineering inform how I optimize performance-critical code in Python. Insights from game design improve user interfaces in serious simulation software. Methods from data analysis refine debugging and software testing practices.

[Note that just randomly rotating through skills is not necessarily the best way either. See “Talent Rotation: Stop the Downward Spiral“]

Coding as Art: When Creativity Meets Technology

Generalism isn’t just professionally rewarding; it’s intellectually fulfilling. Creative coding, which blends programming with artistic expression, exemplifies this beautifully. It underscores the versatility of coding as not just a technical tool but also a medium for creativity and exploration, blurring the line between art and science.

Conclusion: Embracing the Power of Versatility

So don’t fear the “jack of all trades” label. Embrace it. Recognize that your varied interests and experiences don’t hinder your expertise, they amplify it. Your versatility isn’t a weakness; it’s your greatest strength.