I recently had the chance to host a podcast with some amazing guests: Joachim Schmider, Partner Technology Strategy & Transformation at EY, and Dr. Selmin Danıs Oncül, Head of Enterprise Architecture Corporate at E.ON Digital Technology.
It was great to hear from such knowledgeable guests and interact with the audience. We had a really insightful conversation about the future of enterprise architecture (EA) and how to attract young talent to the field. I wanted to share some of the key takeaways from the webinar and some of the top tips that were shared to help you on your journey into Enterprise Architecture (EA).
First off, it’s clear that a successful EA needs a mix of technical and soft skills. As Joachim put it…
Enterprise architects are more technical consultants… They have to communicate with such different stakeholders.”
So, while understanding business processes, data, and technology is essential, don’t forget about those all-important communication and problem-solving skills.
Another big takeaway is the value of experience. Joachim’s journey from Scheffler to the consulting world highlighted how diverse experiences can open up new opportunities and broaden your perspective.
Attracting young people to EA is a challenge, but Selmin emphasised the importance of raising awareness and making the field more appealing. It’s about showcasing the exciting and impactful work that EAs do.
Certifications like TOGAF can be helpful, but they’re not the be-all and end-all. As Selmin mentioned,
“You can directly deep dive AI discipline… Or you can move to AI discipline spending some few years in either any of the disciplines in IT and technology, which may be easier to adapt.”
Practical experience and continuous learning are equally important.
And finally, for those considering a career in EA, the experts recommended gaining a basic understanding of different IT disciplines, developing strong communication skills, and being open to learning new things.
The future of EA looks bright, and there’s a growing need for talented professionals to drive digital transformation. By focusing on developing a well-rounded skillset, gaining practical experience, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends, you can position yourself for a successful career in this exciting field.
Another big thank you to my guests and if you missed the webinar, you can check it out here.
I hope to see you on the next webinar!
Jake