You want to become a principal-level System Architect. What should you do first?

1 Assess your current skills

The first step is to honestly evaluate your current skills and knowledge as a system architect. You can use frameworks such as the Software Engineering Competency Model (SECM) or the SFIAplus to identify your strengths and gaps. You should also seek feedback from your peers, managers, and mentors to get a realistic picture of your performance and potential. Based on this assessment, you can set specific and measurable goals for your improvement.

2 Learn from the best

The next step is to learn from the best practices and examples of successful principal-level system architects. You can do this by reading books, blogs, podcasts, and case studies on system architecture topics. You can also join online communities, forums, and events where you can network and exchange ideas with other system architects. You should also look for opportunities to work with or shadow senior system architects in your organization or industry, and ask them for advice and guidance.

3 Build your portfolio

The third step is to build your portfolio of system architecture projects that demonstrate your skills and value. You can do this by taking on challenging and complex assignments, volunteering for cross-functional or cross-domain initiatives, or creating your own side projects. You should document your work with clear and concise artifacts, such as diagrams, models, specifications, and code snippets. You should also showcase your portfolio on your resume, website, or social media platforms.

4 Develop your soft skills

The fourth step is to develop your soft skills that are essential for a principal-level system architect. These include leadership, communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. You can improve these skills by taking courses, workshops, or coaching sessions, or by practicing them in your daily work. You should also seek feedback and learn from your mistakes. As a principal-level system architect, you will need to lead teams, communicate with stakeholders, collaborate with other architects, solve complex problems, and make strategic decisions.

5 Keep up with the trends

The fifth step is to keep up with the trends and innovations in the system architecture field. You can do this by following industry news, blogs, podcasts, and newsletters, or by attending webinars, conferences, and workshops. You should also experiment with new tools, technologies, and methodologies that can enhance your system architecture skills and knowledge. You should also be aware of the business and customer needs and expectations that drive the system architecture design and evolution.

6 Showcase your value

The final step is to showcase your value as a principal-level system architect to your organization and industry. You can do this by delivering high-quality and high-impact system architecture solutions that meet the business and customer goals. You should also share your insights, lessons learned, and best practices with your colleagues, managers, and peers. You should also seek recognition and endorsement for your achievements and contributions, and apply for promotions or new opportunities that match your skills and aspirations.