Mike Sweatt - Senior Systems Engineer

About Mike

Hi, I'm Mike Sweatt — a husband, father, and engineer who's spent over 15 years figuring out how complex systems work, from the locomotives that move our goods to the electric vehicles in our driveways.

But here's why I really write: We're living through one of the most fascinating periods in human history. Technology is reshaping everything from how we move around cities to how we think about work itself. As someone who's spent more than a decade inside these changes—designing the systems that power our world—I have a front-row seat to what's coming next.

And I think we need to talk about it.

Why I Share

I started this blog to share my thoughts and ignite ideas. Here's what drives me to share my journey:

Meaningful Discussion

Important discussions about AI, systems, and staying human in an automated world that will impact future generations.

Beyond the How

Moving past just 'how to solve' toward 'why we build' and 'what if we tried differently'

Thinking Process

Sharing not just conclusions, but the frameworks, questions, and mistakes that lead to understanding

My Approach

Whether I'm trading off system architectures or trying to understand if this new AI tool is worth the hype, I use the same basic approach:

  • Start with first principles - What are we actually trying to solve? What is the value proposition?
  • Look for patterns - Where have I seen this before? What worked? What didn't?
  • Test assumptions - What am I taking for granted that might not be true?
  • Think in systems - How does this connect to everything else?
  • Stay curious - What don't I understand yet?

You'll see this process in action throughout my posts. Sometimes I'm right, sometimes I'm wrong, but I always try to show you how I got there.

What I Share

These aren't just topics I write about—they're the threads I'm pulling on to understand where we're headed. Each represents a piece of the larger puzzle of how humans and technology will co-evolve. You'll find thoughts on:

Engineering Mindset

How to approach complex problems with systematic thinking and creative solutions

AI Insights

Practical perspectives on AI tools and their real-world impact on how we work and live

Personal Growth

Career lessons, leadership experiences, and navigating the ever-changing tech landscape

Life Lessons

Balancing career ambitions with family life, and the wisdom gained along the journey

Where I Think We're Headed

I believe we're in the early stages of the biggest transformation since the Industrial Revolution. AI isn't just automating tasks—it's changing how we think about intelligence itself. Transportation isn't just going electric—it's becoming autonomous, connected, and fundamentally different. Work isn't just going remote—it's being redefined entirely.

But here's what I've learned from building complex systems: the future isn't predetermined. It's being shaped by thousands of decisions made by people like us, every day. The more we understand these forces, the better we can navigate them—and maybe even influence them. I'm hopeful that by sharing my thoughts, people won't get left behind in this transformation.

That's why I share my journey here. Because I think the conversations we have today about technology, work, and life will shape the world our kids inherit.

Let's Connect

I'm always interested in connecting with people who are thinking deeply about these questions. Whether you're an engineer, a founder, someone navigating career changes, or just curious about where all this is headed—I'd love to hear your perspective.