You’ve mastered the technical side.
You’ve led complex projects.
You’ve built credibility through results.

And yet… it feels like something is off.
The momentum you once had is slowing down. Your impact isn’t growing the way you hoped.

You might be hitting a leadership plateau.

For many STEM leaders, the transition from technical expert to senior leader is where the plateau begins. Not because they aren’t capable, but because “what got you here won’t get you there”, as explained in the brilliant book of Marshall Goldsmith.

Why rational problem solving isn’t enough.

As an engineer, you’re trained to analyze, optimize, and fix.
But people aren’t code.
And organizations aren’t machines.

At this stage in your career, leadership isn’t about solving. I’s about reading people.
That shift can feel uncomfortable at first. You’re no longer rewarded for having the right answers, but for creating the conditions for others to thrive.

Common traps that keep you stuck

Even high-performing leaders can fall into subtle traps:

• Perfectionism: Spending too much time refining instead of deciding.
• Overcontrol: Struggling to let go of execution and delegate effectively.
• Under communication: Assuming clarity when the team needs direction, context, and inspiration.

Each of these habits made sense in an earlier role. Now, they limit your ability to scale your leadership.

How to grow beyond your own ceiling

Breaking through a plateau is about elevating your mindset and redefining what leadership looks like at your level.

Ask yourself:

• Are you creating space for strategic thinking?
• Are you empowering your team to own more?
• Are you building relationships that amplify your impact?

If not, it’s time to shift your leadership focus.

Coaching as a Catalyst for Growth

Many senior STEM leaders find that coaching provides the mirror and momentum they need to move forward. At a senior level, insight and perspective makes all the difference.

Working with a coach helps you:

• Identify blind spots.
• Reconnect with your strengths.
• Rebuild your energy and focus.
• Design your next move intentionally.

Are You Ready for the Next Level?

That’s the real question.
To answer it, reflect on these prompts:

• Are you fully using your competencies?
• Does your work energize you?
• Are you being challenged in a meaningful way?
• Does your role align with your natural strengths?
• Are you still growing and learning?
• Do you feel intellectually stimulated?

If your answer to one or more of these is “no,” it may be time to take a critical look at your current role and what comes next.

Want an objective way to evaluate where you stand?

Consider taking part in my Executive Assessment, a strategic tool to help senior leaders gain clarity and take actionable steps toward their next career move.