In one of my first dev jobs, I supported activating new cell phones at Sprint (later acquired by T-Mobile). My team supported software that sent new customer info to multiple systems so new customers could make calls.

I supported a number of Unix shell scripts that sent critical data to key systems, and worked around known bugs in existing Java apps. (Yes, this was an odd tech choice - I didn’t pick it).

It was extremely stressful. I was on call alone. And if I got a page, it was a big deal - it meant new customers couldn’t use their phones.

I was *awful* at my job. Why? Because I didn’t even know Unix. I had never even touched a Unix command line before this role.

But I was lucky, because my team was patient and kind. One co-worker, Kyle, was especially bright. We all looked to him for answers.

I asked Kyle countless questions. He always answered me patiently. And Kyle didn’t just answer my questions. He did so with enthusiasm. He gave me the back story. He made sure I truly understood. His enthusiasm for helping others was contagious.

Kyle’s leadership, kindness, and patience inspired me to grow.

So, each day, I try to be like Kyle.

View original on X