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Unpacking Craftsmanship
I have a Bachelor’s degree in computer science from a top-5 university. However, I consider my software engineer journey began at my first job–working as an apprentice under the guidance of a seasoned mentor.
My apprenticeship led me to reach beyond technical proficiency. I attended meetups and volunteered at tech conferences, immersing myself in a community of passionate software professionals.
As my confidence grew, I took on the role of organizer, creating opportunities for others to connect and learn from one another. I also had the privilege of mentoring my own apprentices, passing on the knowledge and skills that had been imparted to me.
For a long time, I believed my journey was what people typically associated with craftsmanship. However, as time passed, I learned that craftsmanship encompasses many facets. In this article, I aim to explore the different dimensions of craftsmanship. This exploration will help me clarify my understanding of craftsmanship and serve as an opportunity to define what craftsmanship means to me and what it does not.
From an extrinsic perspective, craftsmanship can be seen as a brand positioning strategy associated with luxury brands like Hermès, Tiffany & Co., or Ferrari. It embodies concepts such as quality and exclusivity, creating a perception of a superior product accessible only to a…