Are you in the right environment?

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:07:46 GMT

Are you in the right environment?

Through nearly two decades in tech recruiting, reinforced by ongoing study, observation, and conversations with strong engineers, one thing that comes up repeatedly is how differently environments translate technical contribution into recognition and reward.

I work with engineers and engineering executives who are starting to reassess what “good environments” actually look like. Not abstractly, but in practical terms: what work is done, in what team dynamic, and how that translates into impact and recognition. In some environments, there is a longer, more indirect path between execution and recognition. Over time, this weakens the link between technical execution and outcome.

Mission statements can be compelling, but they do not determine how work is experienced day to day, or how direct contribution translates into recognition. As I continue to grow ATC, my eye is on environments that directly value technical work: writing code, improving systems, directly impacting P&L. Where fewer layers sit between engineers and outcomes, and the connection between execution and impact is tighter.

Not every engineer thrives in this type of environment. Seats are limited and expectations are high. That’s not a judgment, just a reflection of the market reality. People have different strengths, preferences, and ways of working.

If this resonates with how you’ve been thinking about your own career, I’m always open to a low-pressure conversation about what might make sense next.

Starting a New Journey

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 22:57:10 GMT

Turning the Page: My Transition from Google to Building Above The Clouds

I worked for Google for 14 years. The journey was wonderful. I will forever be grateful for the opportunities and all the friends made along the way.

I’d be happy to sit down over a beer, or coffee, and talk more about the journey at Google. Today that journey ended. I have been wrapping up for some time. I’m looking ahead, not in the rearview.

What will I do next? Well, if you are on the Above The Clouds website you might have figured it out. I’ve always wanted to run my own business. I’ve always, kinda, wanted a blog. And here we are!

What will I write about? I plan to write about my personal thoughts on a professional journey. That of a sole provider for a family of 4, with two young sons, venturing off from a large company to start a business.

Above the Clouds will operate in North America and APAC. I’m looking forward to this journey. I’m looking forward to helping clients uplevel their leadership talent, and helping candidates find opportunities where they can thrive.

Stay tuned.

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Are you in the right environment?