Applying Different Forms of Mentorship

The Copy-Paste Method

The article introduces the "Copy-Paste Method" as a practical, informal approach to professional development in engineering. This strategy encourages individuals to actively observe and emulate the successful practices of respected engineers. It extends beyond merely reading books or blogs to include direct observation of colleagues' problem-solving techniques, communication styles, and knowledge acquisition habits. The core idea is to identify what exceptional engineers do differently and then integrate those useful elements into one's own professional toolkit. This method underscores the value of practical application and learning by doing, rather than solely relying on theoretical knowledge.

This observational learning is presented as a form of "shameless copying," where engineers are encouraged to "steal" effective strategies. The author likens this to the artistic process where "great artists steal," implying that adaptation and reinterpretation of existing excellence are pathways to personal mastery. By dissecting how proficient engineers approach challenges, what resources they consult, and how they articulate their ideas, aspiring professionals can gain actionable insights. This continuous process of observation, extraction, and application fosters a dynamic learning environment, allowing engineers to incrementally improve their skills and adapt to new challenges without the rigidity of a formal mentorship structure.

Curiosity Compounds

Beyond mere observation, the article stresses the compounding power of curiosity through direct questioning. It highlights that simply observing has its limits, and asking targeted questions can unlock deeper understanding and accelerate learning. The author provides examples of effective, yet simple, questions such as inquiring about how managers handle difficult conversations or how engineers tackle seemingly impossible problems. The emphasis is on seeking specific pieces of information that can be immediately applied, rather than engaging in broad, open-ended discussions. This approach transforms every interaction into a potential learning opportunity, making knowledge acquisition an ongoing, integrated part of daily work.

The article posits that curiosity is the primary requirement for this method, suggesting that even without working alongside "exceptional engineers," one can still benefit by investigating anything they don't understand. This proactive stance encourages engineers to pause and explore unknowns rather than passively moving past them. By making investigation a rule, individuals cultivate a habit of continuous inquiry, building a rich network of knowledge from various sources. This distributed learning model, where one seeks specific insights from a "collection of people who know things you don't," is presented as a more organic and sustainable alternative to relying on a single formal mentor.

Parsity

Brian Jenney, the author of the article, is identified as the owner of Parsity, a program designed to assist engineers through hands-on training. This detail provides context for Jenney's perspective on mentorship, suggesting that his insights are rooted in practical experience and a philosophy centered on active, applied learning. The article itself is crossposted from IEEE Spectrum’s careers newsletter, which is written in partnership with Parsity, further linking the content to the program's pedagogical approach. This connection implies that the informal mentorship strategies discussed are likely integral to Parsity's training methodology, emphasizing real-world skill development over theoretical instruction.

The mention of Parsity reinforces the article's broader message about effective engineering development. It suggests that programs like Parsity aim to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, much like informal mentorship does. By focusing on "hands-on training," Parsity aligns with the "Copy-Paste Method" and the "Curiosity Compounds" approach, which prioritize direct engagement, observation, and active problem-solving. This institutional backing from Parsity lends credibility to Jenney's arguments for a more organic, less structured approach to professional growth, advocating for a continuous learning mindset that is crucial for engineers in any field, including AI.