The Joe Reis Show Why 90% of Data Engineers Will Never Become Leaders w/ Yordan Ivanov
Oct 22, 2025
Yordan Ivanov, Head of Data Engineering and creator of the newsletter 'Data Gibberish,' shares insights on bridging the gap between technical skills and essential soft skills for data engineers. He recounts his journey from failing as a manager to mastering people-centric skills, emphasizing the importance of effective communication. The conversation also delves into the risks of AI over-reliance and its impact on coding habits. Furthermore, Yordan discusses the evolving landscape of data tools and how engineers can better express their business value amidst rapid changes.
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Train Teams To Understand Tools' Inner Workings
- Yordan advises team members to learn tools as helpers but also understand processes behind them.
- He recommends training people to use AI and tools thoughtfully, not as blind shortcuts.
Outline Projects In Writing Before Coding
- Yordan and Joe both advise capturing project thoughts in a document before coding to clarify questions and design.
- They say writing first reduces blind jumping-into-code and improves project outcomes.
The Senior-Level Content Gap
- Yordan notes a content gap: abundant technical material but scarce guidance on non-technical senior skills.
- He thinks engineers rarely engage with career-strategy content though it's crucial to advance.