Behind the scenes is Richard Wong, head of engineering at Coursera.
We recently spoke with Richard to learn a little about how he works.
At home, I have a Mac Mini.
It has some of the best development tools for engineers.
Tell me a little about your background and how you got to where you are today.
I was hookedobsessed with the elegance of programming.
After that, I was immersed in the world of computers.
I spent a lot of time at the library researching and exploring how they worked.
Professionally, I earned a Masters in electrical engineering at Stanford.
Before that, I studied in Hong Kong for my undergraduate.
I joined Coursera two years ago, after a former LinkedIn colleague introduced me to the company.
I was immediately drawn to the close-knit, fast paced nature of startup culture.
I also truly believe in the mission of making education more accessible to others all over the world.
Its something I think is really profound.
What apps, software, or tools cant you live without?
Sublime Textis an engineers dream tool and I couldnt imagine doing my job without it.
Its a huge productivity saver.
I useCoursera(promise this isnt a plug!).
I still find so many things I need to improve on and learn aboutfrom tech to leadership skills.
I also spend a lot of time onQuora.
I read conversations about topics ranging from policy to technology and science.
There wasthis crazy threadabout what happens when something travels faster than the speed of light.
Basically… all bets are off.
Whats your workspace setup like?
In some ways, you could consider me a mobile workspace.
I do have a desk too.
It gives me an overview of how the Coursera platform is performing.
Its cool to see all this information on one screen.
Whats your best time-saving shortcut or life hack?
Keep your meeting attendee lists small!
Only the most necessary people should attend.
Whats your favorite to-do list manager?
Its the simplest way to stay on top of everything and its easily accessed across all my mobile devices.
Its a lifesaver (and environmentally friendly).
Besides your phone and computer, what gadget cant you live without and why?
Oh, without a doubtmy home automation system.
Its funny how quickly Ive become use to the convenience of having all of these devices so intricately connected.
The other day I realized Id forgotten my house key when I came home.
Bonus: It also serves as quite the entertainment system for my 4-year-old.
He has quite the conversations with Alexa.
What everyday thing are you better at than everyone else?
No matter who Im with, Im always the first person at the table to finish my meal.
What do you listen to while you work?
Got a favorite playlist?
Or do you prefer silence?
SilenceI prefer the quiet.
What are you currently reading?
One I just finished reading thats very interesting isOur Iceberg is Meltingby John Kotter.
Its a fun fable about penguins all migrating to another iceberg as the one theyre on is melting.
Its a book on how you handle and address changing situations in life, and in the workplace.
Its an important subject for leaders to think about, especially in technology when everything is always changing.
How do you recharge?
What do you do to stop thinking about work?
I love exploring the different culture and history various places have to offer.
If Im not traveling, I find washing the car very therapeutic.
Whats your sleep routine like?
Are you a night owl or early-riser?
Im a night owl.
Its when I focus best and can make progress on big items.
I do some of my best thinking at night.
Fill in the blank: Id love to see ______ answer these same questions.
Jeff Weiner, CEO of LinkedIn.
Whats the best advice youve ever received?
It was from Jeff, actually.
His advice: Act like an owner.
Many of us often place limits on ourselves or feel like we cant change a situation we encounter.
Its truly inspiring, and is a great life lesson.
This interview has been lightly edited for clarity.
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