Published Nov. 16, 2023

Getting too comfortable in a role, according to senior software manager Chad Peterson, is never a good thing. In fact, for him, that’s the signal that it’s time for the next challenge. And Chad says there’s no better place to explore new roles and opportunities.

Walk us through your career so far.

As I worked my way through software engineering, I realized there were opportunities for more efficient management. So, I became an Agile coach. This took my career down an unexpected path before getting back into software, but the experience I gained strengthened how I manage. I bring that with me to my team as we develop software within the training systems — like rotorcraft simulation.

What advice would you give someone as they build their Boeing career?

Encourage one another. Early on in my career, someone who was more senior pulled me aside and told me how much faith he had in me and the potential he saw. I still think about it.

When did you know you were ready for your next move?

This is going to sound weird, but it’s when nothing scares you anymore. You should always feel challenged and uncomfortable. That’s where growth happens. When you’re too comfortable, move on.

What’s a fear that you had to overcome to get where you are now?

I definitely suffer from imposter syndrome — that fear that you don’t actually know what you’re doing. I have to remind myself that I am doing a good job and that a little discomfort is healthy.

Where do you hope to go from here?

I have my eye on a directorship. More to come.