Becoming a software engineer manager is the logical next step for many developers around the world. It's offering ways to show leadership and further climb the career ladder to higher positions. But beware, as we know it's a career change, not a promotion.
Going into software engineering management means putting your tools down and instead empowering your coworkers and other engineers in your team. Only great engineers that want to take up leadership duties can grow into this position. But it's also a path that's worth it and can lead to more career opportunities on the Head, VP or even CXO level later on.
A well-written and thorough book can be an amazing path to build deeper understanding and also act as a handbook as you discover the internet's vast resources.
These are our and our experts top picks to get started building career-relevant skills.
This is a solid, professional book on managing complex engineering systems across the full lifecycle, from planning and design through testing, production, operations, and retirement. It is a good fit for Engineering Management because it focuses on coordinating technical work, integration, support…
Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.
This is a practical look at senior individual contributor roles, especially what it takes to become and succeed as a Staff Engineer. It is a strong fit for Engineering Management because it covers technical leadership, influence, working with managers, and how senior engineers drive outcomes withou…
Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.
A textbook-style introduction to the core management concepts used in engineering settings. It is aimed at students in engineering and management programs, so it is a practical fit if you want a structured overview of planning, organization, and decision-making in technical environments.
Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.
This is a practical book about the people and coordination side of engineering work, especially for folks who end up leading projects or teams without much formal management training. It focuses on how to work well with groups, make collaboration more intentional, and build shared direction, which …
Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.
This is a practical collection of short essays on the day-to-day work of engineering management, from mentoring and team dynamics to handling larger organizational responsibilities. It is a good pick for someone growing into engineering leadership because it offers grounded advice from experienced …
Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.
This is a practical book about running engineering teams well, covering topics like team design, technical debt, hiring, planning, and leadership growth. It is especially useful for engineers moving into management or current managers who want a clearer framework for making org and people decisions…
Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.
These days, courses are no longer a sequence of videos. They are usually accompanied by projects and a learning community, keeping you accountable and on the path.
Our experts recommend these courses, from free selections to paid programs.
Learn to ace the engineering management interview process from start to finish with practical examples and strategies from top managers. Covers management skills, project presentations, and system design.
Available on tryexponent.com
The Technology and Engineering Management Graduate Program provides the breadth of skillsets required for management in those sectors. Building on existing work experience, this program teaches financial analysis, establishing a strategic direction, and building dynamic, cohesive teams. You will…
Available on provider
In this program, you will learn the project management skills you need to successfully manage engineering projects. First you will focus on the early project phases, which are crucial to achieve project success. The areas covered include the project manager and the team, the project process and …
Available on edx.org
Get personalized mentor recommendations based on your goals and experience level
Start matchingThe online Engineering Management MSc will equip you with practical and theoretical knowledge of modern engineering, alongside a grounding in management. Offering much more than a generic MBA, the course has been designed by engineers, for engineers. It aims to meet the needs of a changing engin…
Available on provider
As we gain experience and grow in our professional careers, we each develop our own communication style, and we tend to operate within that style with great comfort. However, in higher leadership roles, we must recognize that we need to raise our communication effectiveness in many more situatio…
Available on sae.org
Manage Successful Engineering Projects. Master strategies and tools to more effectively and successfully manage projects.
Available on coursera.org
There is no better source of accountability and motivation than having a personal mentor. What used to be impossible to find is now just two clicks away! All mentors are vetted & hands-on!
Already working in the Engineering Manager field? Our Engineering Management consultants can help you and your team overcome challenges, implement best practices, and achieve your professional goals faster.
Connect with Engineering Management ConsultantsNot only is the progression from individual Engineering Manager to a Senior role a natural progression, it also makes all the difference in your average salary.
On a global average, Senior Engineering Manager receive a $30,000 salary hike over entry-level Engineering Managers when they go from individual contributor to senior personnel.
Ready to make the switch? Connect with one of our engineering managers and don't miss out on your next career step.
