So, what's this about?
I'm Thierry 👋🏻, a self-taught software developer turned accidental manager. My previous colleagues occasionally called me Grumpy – a nickname that stuck because of my introvert nature, resting poker face and perhaps also because of my overly analytical approach to life 🤷🏻♂️.
The road my career took so far shows the power, and pitfalls, of self-directed learning and the "fake it till you make it" philosophy, though I prefer to think of it as "learn it until you earn it".
Technical Expertise and Leadership Evolution
My path into software development wasn't traditional, but that's what makes it interesting. Through a whole lot of reading, practical application, and a lot of curiosity, I built a foundation in software development that eventually led me to leadership roles although a bit by accident.
This transition from being an individual contributor to a manager has given me a unique perspective on both the technical and human aspects of software development. I also picked up a few things about mental health, self-discovery and the power of vulnerability and growth along the way.
We all make mistakes ... right?
Every developer has that one story – the one that keeps them humble. Mine involves an infinite loop in a CSS file during my first ever high-stakes rebranding launch which happened to be right at the end of my probation period at my first "real" job.
For an entire week, our server behaved as if it was hosting the digital equivalent of the Superbowl, while in reality, it was just caught in my accidentally crafted infinite loop. Needless to say, this experience taught me more about debugging, system monitoring, and the importance of thorough testing than any tutorial ever could.
It's also a story I share with junior developers to emphasize that mistakes are stepping stones to expertise and that no matter who you're talking to, they have one of those in their logbook.
Beyond the Code
While technology is both a profession and a passion for me, my interests and skills extend far beyond the command line. As a forever DM in D&D, I've worked a lot on my ability to create and improvise. This has taught me the value of good storytelling in making complex things accessible and engaging.
My fairly extensive knowledge of Star Wars lore (which some might call excessive) represents my approach to learning: when I'm interested in something, I dive deep.
Personal Growth and Self-Analysis
Perhaps one of my most distinctive characteristics is my commitment, or inability to shut off, the part of my brain that constantly performs self-analysis. This trait serves as both a nifty trick to better myself and my greatest source of frustration and anxiety. Sure it enables me to constantly evolve and adapt, but it also means I rarely settle for "good enough" – in myself or my work. I'm getting better at managing that side of me, but it's the definition of a work in progress 😅.
Want to connect? Let's have a conversation about technology, leadership, or why the Empire's software infrastructure clearly needed better exception handling. Just don't expect me to bring coffee to our meeting – but I'll make up for it with self deprecation and insights. We'll have a blast.
This bio was crafted with the assistance of Claude AI and edited to ensure it made sense because sometimes, even a storyteller needs a storytelling partner.