Top software engineer influencers to follow in 2024

Looking for the best software engineers to follow this year? We've compiled a list of the top SWE influencers in the industry, coming from a variety of backgrounds, specialties, and experiences. Each provides unique insights, advice, and resources to help you stay ahead in the continuously changing world of tech.

Alex Xu + Sahn Lam

Alex Xu and Sahn Lam are the co-founders of ByteByteGo and co-authors of the best-selling book “System Design Interview.” They’re a must-follow on LinkedIn for anyone interested in large-scale system design. They run a popular weekly newsletter, providing valuable content for those interested in cutting-edge system design tips and insights.

Talks about:

• Complex system design
• Trends in large-scale system design
• System design interview prep

Best For: SWEs focused on mastering large scale system design

AlgoJS

If you’re interested in diving deeper into data structures, algorithms, and system design, AlgoJS can help. You’ll find video content on a variety of topics parsed down and explained in a way that’s easy to understand and helpful for learners of all levels.

Talks about:

• Databases and backend architecture
• Data analytics
• System design
• Algorithms

Best for: SWEs looking to expand their knowledge of data structures and algorithms

Clement Mihailescu

Clement Mihailescu is an ex-Google and ex-Facebook software engineer who runs a YouTube channel with over 500K subscribers. Follow him for insights into full-stack development, algorithm analysis, and the nuances of technical interview preparation. Through his platform, AlgoExpert, Clement provides a structured and efficient approach to mastering coding interviews.

Talks about:

• Full stack development
• Algorithms
• Technical interview preparation

Best for: SWEs focused on excelling in coding interviews

Navdeep Singh

Navdeep Singh is the founder of Neetcode, a platform that helps software engineers prepare for technical interviews. He talks about all things interview prep, including efficient coding practices and problem-solving strategies, especially for algorithm and data structure questions that are commonly encountered in interviews at top tech companies.

Talks about:

• algorithms and data structures
• interview preparation
• problem-solving strategies

Best for: SWEs preparing for interviews at top-tier tech companies

Rahul Pandey

Rahul Pandey is the co-founder of Taro, a platform that provides all kinds of resources and coaching for software engineers. Alex gives engineers the inside scoop on the skills they need beyond coding to be successful in their careers—one popular resource on the Taro platform isAlex's Guide To Effective Communication,  a guide by Alex Chiou that helps software engineers master their communication skills.

Talks about:

• Soft skills needed for SWEs
• Communication strategies
• Career growth

Best for: SWEs looking for a holistic approach to skill building and career growth

Sophie Novati

Formation’s Sophie Novati talks about all things software engineering—including how to ace interviews in big tech. She’s dedicated to ensuring every person has equitable access to a fulfilling career and focuses on empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds with the skills they need to thrive in top-tier tech companies. Follow her for tips on interviewing, system design, coding and algorithm interviews, navigating the job search, and more.

Talks about:

• Diversity and inclusion in tech
• Interview Preparation
• System design
• Coding interviews
• The job hunt

Best for: SWEs looking to uplevel their careers and ace top-tier tech interviews and those interested in diversity in tech

Steve Huynh

Steve Huynh's mission is to empower individuals to achieve their goals, whether it's rapid career advancement, launching a business, or gaining financial independence. Followers can benefit from his experience by checking out his email newsletter, YouTube channel, and Discord, where he regularly shares valuable insights and guidance for living a fulfilling professional life.

Talks about:

• Building the life you want
• How to achieve your goals
• Individual empowerment
• Making the most out of your professional life

Best for: SWEs interested in personal growth, goal setting, and career advancement from a holistic perspective

Yangshun Tay

Following Yangshun Tay offers incredible insights into front-end development, design systems, and strategic interview techniques. His company, GreatFrontEnd, is dedicated to advancing the skills of front-end engineers, keeping them updated with the latest trends, and fostering a community of like-minded professionals. Yangshun authored resources like Docusaurus v2, the Tech Interview Handbook, and the Front End Interview Handbook alongside Blind 75.  

Talks about:

• Front-end development
• Design systems
• Interview preparation
• Coding problems

Best for: SWEs looking to expand their fullstack skillsets and ace tough interviews

Connect with other industry leaders

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