Ron Higgs, an engineer and executive coach with extensive experience working with engineers transitioning into executive roles and owner of Wolf Management Solutions, shares with Workwolf insights on overcoming the unique challenges engineers face in leadership development. In this interview, Ron discusses how engineers can shift their mindset, foster effective communication, and build resilient organizations.
Challenges Engineers Face When Transitioning to Leadership
Engineers moving into leadership roles often face a steep learning curve. The primary challenge, according to Ron Higgs, is shifting from a highly specialized mindset to one that is broader and more people-centered. “Engineers are used to working in extreme detail and logic, where equations and solutions are concrete,” Ron explains. “But in leadership, the goal is to create an environment where people can thrive and succeed, which requires big picture thinking and focusing on people.”
Another significant hurdle is communication. Engineers must learn how to effectively communicate with non-technical stakeholders like HR, finance, and operations. “You can’t assume that everyone understands the technical principles you do,” Ron emphasizes. Simplifying complex concepts and speaking in plain language is crucial for success in executive leadership.
A Veterans Perspective in Corporate Settings
Ron’s background in the Navy has given him a unique perspective on leadership and teamwork. He draws parallels between his experience in the military and corporate leadership, noting that while both require strong leadership, teamwork in the military is built on a shared commitment to a higher cause. “In the military, we depend on each other for our lives, which brings us closer together,” he explains. “In business, while we don’t face life-or-death situations, the same principles of putting the organization’s mission above personal interests apply.”
By focusing on the organization’s mission, vision, and values, teams can work together more effectively. “Decisions should be made with the organization’s best interests in mind, and that will strengthen teamwork and collaboration,” Ron suggests. “The key is ensuring everyone understands how their daily actions contribute to the overall mission.”
Incorporating Systems Thinking to Build Resilient Organizations
Ron emphasizes the importance of systems thinking in leadership. He explains that leaders must recognize how their decisions and actions impact the entire organization. “Every action you take, whether in sales, operations, or production, affects other parts of the business,” he points out. “Systems thinking means understanding how your piece of the puzzle fits into the whole and ensuring alignment across teams.”
Ron coaches executive teams to have open conversations about how their actions impact others and encourages cross-functional collaboration to avoid misunderstandings. “Effective communication is crucial to making systems thinking work,” he says. “Leaders need to ensure that everyone understands how their actions affect the company and work towards a common goal.”
Guiding Teams Through Change While Keeping Morale High
Change is inevitable in any organization, and Ron shares his approach to guiding teams through transitions while maintaining morale. “People hate change, but they also hate the way things are” he jokes. “The key is to embrace uncertainty, focus on the organization’s long-term goals, and align them with your personal goals.”
Ron encourages leaders to be open to change, failure, and different perspectives. “If everyone is open to the process, it creates a more adaptable and resilient organization,” he suggests. “When leaders communicate why a change is happening and how it aligns with the organization’s mission, employees are more likely to embrace it.”
The Importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Leadership
As a strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), Ron stresses the value of bringing diverse perspectives into decision-making. “When you have people with different backgrounds, life experiences, and viewpoints, you get better solutions to problems,” he says. “DEI isn’t just about fairness; it’s about leveraging a range of perspectives to drive innovation and problem-solving.”
Ron emphasizes that a diverse team of people with complementary skills and perspectives can balance each other out, creating a more effective and dynamic work environment. “DEI ensures that no idea goes unconsidered, and it encourages people to innovate and break with traditional thinking” he says. “A variety of perspectives is essential for success.”
Identifying and Nurturing Top Talent
In today’s competitive market, identifying top talent is more challenging than ever. Ron shares his approach to spotting high-performing individuals who align with an organization’s values and mission. “Top performers aren’t just defined by their credentials or past achievements,” he explains. “They are the people who show up every day, ready to collaborate and contribute to the organization’s success.”
Ron looks for individuals who work well with others, put the organization’s needs first, and demonstrate empathy. “Empathy is a key trait to have and demonstrate,” he says. “I’d rather have a C player with strong interpersonal skills and work ethic than an A player who lacks emotional intelligence. It’s about teamwork and collaboration.”
Process Improvement and Organizational Growth
When it comes to scaling organizations, Ron emphasizes the importance of understanding where an organization is in its growth cycle. “Startups don’t need complex processes, but as you grow, you need to develop systems that support scalability,” he explains. He stresses the need for leaders to involve everyone in the process creation and ensure clear communication around new processes.
However, Ron warns against over-processing, which can stifle innovation. “Processes should mitigate risk, not control people,” he says. “Over-processing can limit creativity and flexibility, which are essential for growth. The key is finding the right balance.”
Summary
Ron Higgs
Ron Higgs provides valuable guidance for engineers transitioning into leadership roles, highlighting the importance of shifting to a people-centered approach, improving communication, and adopting systems thinking. His background in military leadership informs his coaching philosophy, emphasizing the need for teamwork, alignment with organizational values, and a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion. Ron’s approach to leadership development also focuses on maintaining high morale during periods of change, identifying top talent, and ensuring that organizational processes are flexible enough to support growth and innovation. His insights are instrumental in helping engineers and executives develop the skills they need to lead with confidence and effectiveness.
