Management Mindset Shift
2-3 monthsSkills You'll Build
IC vs manager identityLetting go of hands-on workSuccess through othersDelegating effectivelyTime management for managers
Senior/Staff AI Engineer → AI Engineering Manager
Individual Contributor to AI Engineering Manager
Transition from individual contributor to engineering management in AI. Learn to lead people instead of just code, build and grow AI teams, and drive results through others. This path covers the mindset shift, new skills required, and how to maintain technical credibility while focusing on people leadership.
12-24 months
Prerequisites
- 4+ years as AI engineer
- Technical mentoring experience
- Project leadership experience
- Strong communication skills
- Interest in people development
Your Learning Path
People Management Fundamentals
3-4 monthsSkills You'll Build
One-on-ones and feedbackPerformance managementCareer development conversationsConflict resolutionBuilding trust
Building and Growing Teams
3-4 monthsSkills You'll Build
Hiring AI engineersInterview process designOnboarding programsTeam culture buildingRetention strategies
AI Project and Team Leadership
3-4 monthsSkills You'll Build
AI project planningResource allocationRisk managementStakeholder managementDelivery accountability
Technical Credibility Maintenance
OngoingSkills You'll Build
Staying technically currentArchitecture input without micromanagingTechnical decision participationBalancing IC and manager workContinuous learning
Manager Career Positioning
OngoingSkills You'll Build
Manager compensation researchBuilding management portfolioSenior manager progressionDirector path planningIndustry networking