About Burns and This Blog
Important Disclaimer: This blog represents my own opinions. The views expressed here are not those of my employer, their customers, or the firm’s investors.
I use this blog to share my thoughts on technology, systems, and the role of being a Sales Engineer. My goal is that each post can stand on its own. I also try not to use this space to vent about negative experiences in tech. If it ever starts to sound that way, please feel free to let me know.
Like anyone working in a field they care deeply about, my history and experiences inevitably shape what I write. Below are a few factors that may influence my perspective.
How This Blog Is Maintained
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Living document. I may correct spelling or grammar without adding an editor’s note unless facts change.
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Draft recovery. Some posts may have been started years earlier and published later. There is no hidden agenda in the timing.
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Good enough over perfect. This is not a commercial publication. Typos and rough edges will occasionally slip through. If you notice one, I appreciate the heads-up.
Background and Biases
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Technology lifer. I started programming in sixth grade and was modifying hardware by high school. My son built his first PC at 11. Opportunities for learning keep expanding, and I still find that exciting.
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Fastly fan. After more than two years there, I gained deep respect for the people, processes, and platform behind the company. Yes, I own some equity. I do not believe anything written here could influence their valuation, but full disclosure matters. It is rare to work somewhere where customers repeatedly say they genuinely love the product. That experience left a lasting impression.
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Experience with layoffs and organizational change. I have seen staffing changes handled both well and poorly. Some technologies I respect are produced by companies I do not fully trust. I try not to let that bias my writing. If asked directly, I will be honest about whether I can be objective.
Interests Outside Work That Shape My Perspective
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Youth development. I used to volunteer with a local Boy Scout troop as a Merit Badge counselor and previously served as STEM Coordinator. Watching Scouts grow into dependable, capable adults has shown me the long-term value of that program. I need to get some paperwork updated to get back into doing it.
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Land speed racing. I competed on dry lake beds and salt flats, chasing incremental improvements in top speed within strict class rules. Much like engineering, success often comes from finding one more mile per hour others have not. My role frequently involves modern engine management systems, tuning with software instead of mechanical components. It is a perfect blend of hobby and technical background.
I sometimes joke that I am “paid to play,” and I am genuinely grateful to make a living working in technology.
If any of that resonates, feel free to explore the posts and see what is here.