If you’d like to check it out, you can find this episode on Spotify. It’s also on Apple Podcasts and on our podcast landing page

In the most recent episode of the augustwenty podcast, Engineering to Equations, we were treated to a captivating conversation between two professionals who are excelling in their fields — Cory Shields, a seasoned software engineer, and Angela McManaway, our dynamic CEO. Despite the obvious differences in their roles, the podcast episode highlighted fascinating parallels between the two, demonstrating that success in any field often relies on similar foundational principles: adaptability, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. Let’s dive into the key takeaways from this engaging conversation.

Cory Shields: The Engineer’s Mindset – Precision, Problem Solving, and Innovation

Cory Shields, with years of experience in the world of software engineering, gave listeners a detailed look into the daily practices and mindset that have helped him thrive in a complex, fast-changing industry. From his perspective, engineering is about far more than just writing lines of code—it’s about crafting solutions that solve real-world problems. His approach blends technical skills with creativity, highlighting how engineers must think critically to develop systems that are both functional and innovative.

1. Problem-Solving as a Core Skill:

   Cory emphasized that problem-solving is at the heart of software engineering. He discussed how large challenges are often broken down into smaller, more manageable tasks, allowing him and his team to tackle complex systems without feeling overwhelmed. His method of approaching problems involves first defining the issue, analyzing it from different angles, and then applying a structured approach to find a solution. This process, he explained, is as much about creativity as it is about technical knowledge.

2. Continuous Learning and Adaptability:

   In today’s technology landscape, Cory stressed that continuous learning is not an option—it’s a necessity. With new programming languages, frameworks, and technologies constantly emerging, staying stagnant is not an option. Cory shared that he regularly dedicates time to learn new tools and explore new ways of improving his coding practices. Adaptability, he said, is key to staying ahead in a fast-moving field like software engineering.

3. Balancing Precision with Flexibility:

   Cory’s work demands precision—software engineering involves writing code that must be highly accurate to avoid bugs or security vulnerabilities. However, he pointed out the importance of maintaining flexibility, both in terms of his schedule and in how he approaches challenges. Cory shared how he begins each day with a structured plan but is always ready to pivot when unexpected issues arise, which is an inevitable part of working with complex systems.

Angela McManaway: Leadership, Strategy, and Building a Company Culture

Angela McManaway brought a completely different perspective to the conversation, as she spoke about her experiences leading a company. While her role as a CEO is worlds apart from the technical work of a software engineer, the principles she relies on to guide her business are surprisingly aligned with Cory’s practices in engineering.

1. Leadership as a Balancing Act:

   Angela described leadership as a balance between visionary thinking and day-to-day execution. As a CEO, she constantly keeps her eye on the bigger picture, driving the strategic direction of her company while ensuring that the daily operations run smoothly. Angela shared how she approaches leadership with a mindset that fosters collaboration, inclusivity, and transparency within her team. Building trust, she said, is crucial for long-term success.

2. Decision-Making Under Pressure:

   Much like the problem-solving Cory described in software engineering, Angela faces daily decisions that require critical thinking and swift action. She talked about the pressures of making high-stakes decisions, often with incomplete information, and how she balances data-driven analysis with gut instinct. Her ability to make these tough calls has been honed over years of experience, but Angela noted that staying calm under pressure and remaining flexible are two attributes that have served her well in her role.

3. Cultivating a Strong Company Culture:

   One of the standout points from Angela’s discussion was her focus on company culture. Leading a business isn’t just about achieving financial goals or driving innovation—it’s also about creating an environment where people feel empowered to do their best work. Angela shared the strategies she uses to build a culture of trust, open communication, and mutual respect within her team. She believes that when employees feel valued and connected to the company’s mission, their performance—and the company’s success—improve exponentially.

Common Threads: What Engineering and Leadership Have in Common

While Cory and Angela operate in vastly different professional worlds, the podcast episode revealed several common themes that run through both fields.

1. The Importance of Adaptability:

   In both software engineering and leadership, the ability to adapt to new circumstances is critical. Cory spoke about adapting to new technologies and frameworks, while Angela discussed adapting her leadership approach based on the needs of her team or shifts in the market. The need to stay flexible and open to change is a shared trait that contributes to their success.

2. Problem-Solving and Strategic Thinking:

   Both Cory and Angela underscored the importance of problem-solving. Whether it’s debugging a complex piece of software or steering a company through a challenging period, the ability to approach problems with a strategic mindset is essential. Cory’s engineering background gives him a structured way of thinking about problems, while Angela’s leadership experience helps her make decisions that balance short-term goals with long-term vision.

3. Communication is Key:

   Another key takeaway from the episode was the importance of communication in both fields. Cory shared how engineers need to communicate clearly with their teams, especially when collaborating on large projects. Angela, as a CEO, echoed this sentiment, noting that effective leadership relies heavily on being able to communicate vision, goals, and expectations to her team. Both agreed that whether you’re managing code or people, clear communication is essential for success.

Final Thoughts: Lessons for All Professionals

The conversation between Cory Shields and Angela McManaway on Engineering to Equations offered rich insights for professionals across any field. Whether you’re an engineer focused on technical precision or a leader guiding an organization, the themes of adaptability, problem-solving, and effective communication apply universally. Their shared emphasis on continuous learning, flexibility, and strategic thinking provides a roadmap for success in a rapidly changing world.

If you haven’t listened to this episode yet, you’re in for a treat. Tune in to hear more about how Cory and Angela navigate their respective roles and learn how to apply their insights to your own career—whether you’re coding your next big project or leading a team to new heights.

If you’d like to check it out, you can find this episode on Spotify. It’s also on Apple Podcasts and on our podcast landing page