There are lots of knowledge silos at large engineering firms and it's useful to get to know people on other teams and understand what they do. I have often made progress much faster on issues with my subsystem by having relationships with engineers on other teams who often have relevant experience or understanding I would not have benefited from otherwise. Even areas I'm less involved with like project management, bids, or HR, have people willing to share a lot of information that helps me get a better understanding of the organization as a whole and all the things that go into making a project successful.

Be curious: Ask questions, seek feedback, and always be willing to learn. Curiosity is an essential ingredient to growth and development, and it will also help you to build meaningful relationships. Be adaptable: The world is changing at an unprecedented pace, and organizations must learn to adapt quickly. Embrace change, be flexible, and stay open-minded to new possibilities. Build relationships: Collaboration is key to success. Invest time and effort in building relationships with your colleagues, stakeholders, and customers. Take initiative: Don't be afraid to take on new challenges and responsibilities. Taking initiative shows your employer that you are proactive and eager to contribute. Foster a growth mindset: Embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and celebrate successes. By developing a growth mindset, you will be better equipped to tackle challenges and achieve your goals. Remember, your success and the success of the organization are interconnected. By following these pieces of advice, you can help to create a thriving work environment that benefits everyone involved.

The key to success isn’t just about what you know, but how you embrace opportunities, connect with others, and keep learning. Life is full of chances to grow, and the more open you are to them, the more you’ll discover. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, and never stop evolving.