In response to a request for an article on how to become a systems engineer, the author acknowledges the ambiguity of the term and describes the real challenge of managing complex systems over their life cycles. Instead, the author provides advice on becoming a problem solver, stressing the importance of curiosity, research, and experimentation. Through these processes, working models are developed, and obscure knowledge is gained, leading to the ability to troubleshoot and solve problems that others cannot. However, the author cautions that this type of work can attract psychopaths and suggests that it is entirely reasonable to seek a less arcane career path.
https://rachelbythebay.com/w/2023/05/30/eng/