Founding Engineer Circle
What is this?
An intimate gathering for founding engineers, early technical hires, and engineers-turned-CTOs to connect, share war stories, and build community in a very unique but vital role in the startup ecosystem.
Why attend?
As a former engineer who became CTO of a YC and a16z backed startup at just 23, I know firsthand how challenging and lonely these roles can be. You're building the technical foundation of a company with high expectations, limited resources, and often figuring things out as you go.
While founders have extensive support networks, the first engineers who work just as hard often lack the same community and recognition. This event aims to change that.
Who should come?
Engineers who were among the first to fifth technical hires at a startup
Engineers who transitioned into early-stage CTO roles
Technical leaders navigating the unique challenges of early-stage startups
What to expect
Casual, honest conversations about the realities of being a founding engineer
War stories and lessons learned from the trenches
Practical advice on technical decision-making, team building, and managing founder relationships
Coffee and pastries provided
A chance to build relationships with peers facing similar challenges
If there's interest, this could become a regular gathering to foster an ongoing community. Space is limited to ensure quality conversations.
We'll have breakfast starting at 9:30 AM, and we're aiming to start the conversation by 10 AM promptly to wrap up by 11:30 AM!
Hosted by
Randy Brown, formerly CTO at Jopwell (YC S15) and currently Founder of Scout.
Finley has kindly offered space for the event.