Why I Started This Blog: Growth, Learning, and Connection

October 05, 2024 ~ 463 words ~ 3 minutes

AI generated image of a desk.
AI generated image representing my attempt at getting organized.

Writing can be a powerful tool

Writing is a powerful way to share and document what I learn. The act of writing tends to crystallize my thoughts into something more meaningful and concrete. I intend to reflect on my experiences, new challenges, and what I've been learning... while hopefully providing something valuable to others. Or, at the very least, revisiting my own posts later in life will be entertaining.

A commitment to curiosity

One of the driving factors behind this blog is my continuing desire to be a lifelong learner. I’ve always been curious, whether it’s diving into the complexities of machine learning, mentoring students in FIRST Robotics, or tackling real-world challenges at work. Writing helps me organize my thoughts and transform what I’ve learned into something more tangible, more meaningful. The act of putting ideas into words naturally forces me into a deeper level of understanding. Or at least I like to think so.

Sharing what I've learned

I've spent a significant portion of my career developing software and lately working in people management roles, and I know I’ve been very fortunate. This blog gives me a platform to share not only my technical insights but also broader reflections on innovation, management, and leadership. For example, I'll likely spend some time doing a deep dive into some machine learning models and maybe exploring the impact that cloud infrastructure has on clinical trials. I'm not entirely sure where this will lead yet. We'll see.

Helping and mentoring others

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my ongoing work is mentoring others, whether it’s within the teams I lead at Roswell Park or with FIRST Robotics students as a volunteer mentor. I’ve always been driven by a desire to help others, and this blog extends that passion into a more public space. By writing about my experiences, successes/failures, and everything in between... I hope to offer insights that perhaps others can apply to their own journeys.

Building connections

Another key motivation is connection. I believe that the best learning comes not only from introspection but also from engaging with others. Through this blog, I hope to connect with like-minded individuals... people who are passionate about technology, innovation, learning, and making a difference in their communities. Even though it isn't my primary motivation, I’m genuinely excited about the conversations this blog might spark. Feel free to reach out!

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