The Principal Dev: Elevating Tech Leads to Exceptional Leaders

What Is The Principal Dev Masterclass?

The Principal Dev is a two-day, intensive certification masterclass designed specifically for tech leads and aspiring software development leaders. This course goes beyond coding, focusing on the essential skills every effective and trusted leader in software development needs to thrive in today’s fast-paced tech landscape.

Who Should Attend?

  • Experienced engineers seeking to make a greater impact on their teams and organizations.
  • Software developers ready to transition into leadership roles.
  • Engineering managers, agile coaches, SREs, QA engineers, and product champions looking to sharpen their leadership edge.
  • Professionals with at least three years of commercial software development experience.

What Makes This Course Unique?

  • Leadership-Focused Curriculum: The program addresses the core differences between a developer and a team lead, emphasizing people management, performance, and motivation.
  • Practical, Down-to-Earth Approach: Participants learn actionable strategies for balancing technical and leadership duties, optimizing development processes, and solving real-world team challenges.
  • Collaborative Learning: Attendees work in small, diverse groups on challenges such as cost-effective problem-solving, improving interview processes, and addressing current workplace issues.
  • Comprehensive Support: All participants receive a curated list of books, blogs, and videos for ongoing self-development, as well as continued access to a supportive alumni network.

Course Structure

  • Duration: 2 full days (9:00–17:30), with a 1-hour lunch and multiple coffee breaks.
  • Format: Live sessions in EU and US time zones, with recordings available for those unable to attend the entire event.
  • Language: English (non-native speakers welcome).
  • Certification: Participants receive a verifiable certificate upon completion.

Key Takeaways

  • Master essential leadership skills for tech leads.
  • Learn best practices in software engineering, including pair programming, code reviews, and managing technical debt.
  • Gain practical tools for motivating teams and driving high performance.
  • Build a network of like-minded professionals and mentors.
  • Return to your workplace with renewed inspiration, actionable strategies, and a clear vision for your leadership journey.

What Past Attendees Say

“This is the best technical training I have ever attended. The amount of energy, inspiration, and wisdom I have taken away from this course is immeasurable. Very thought-provoking course!”

“10x motivation booster! Now I have a much clearer vision of becoming a well-rounded tech lead, finding a balance between hard and soft skills, and how to boost my professional reputation in and outside the company.”

“Just two days after the course, I analyzed our development process, discovered the limiting factor, and convinced my teammates to work on it. We fixed the problem and accelerated product delivery by at least 50%. Eduards is a true guru of development process optimization.”

About the Instructor

Eduards Sizovs is a seasoned leader with over 15 years in commercial software development, progressing from developer to IT director. He is the founder of DevTernity (Europe’s top tech conference) and DevTube, and is a recognized international speaker and certified enterprise architect, CSM, CSPO, and ICF coach.

Why Invest in The Principal Dev?

With over 25 million developers worldwide—a number expected to quadruple by 2030—the demand for outstanding tech leads is higher than ever. The Principal Dev masterclass equips you with the skills and mindset to stand out, lead effectively, and future-proof your career in an era of rapid technological change.

Ready to take your leadership to the next level?
Join The Principal Dev masterclass and unlock your full potential as a tech leader.

Leave a Comment