In an early-stage startup, the lines between roles blur, and engineering can become less about building and more about what makes the company attractive. Drawing from my experience as both a founder (multiple times) and engineer at various-sized companies, this talk will cover lessons learned and explore why the smaller the team you join, the more it helps to think beyond engineering.  We will delve into the realities of how nebulous runways, company priorities, and the ever-present influence of venture funding impact engineering priorities. This session is for engineers who want to understand the non-technical forces that surround them.

Key Takeaways:

• What's driving engineering roadmaps: from securing the next funding round to closing key customers.
• The responsibilities that come with being a critical knowledge holder on a small team.
• Understanding side-effects of the venture capital landscape and how it impacts the realities of your career.