As a Head of Engineering, I focus on building high-performing teams and advocating for AI-assisted development to boost engineering productivity. I'm also passionate about inclusive engineering cultures. As someone with a physical disability and founder of Crip in Tech, I know firsthand how diverse perspectives drive innovation.
Why Inclusivity Matters to Me
My journey in tech began as a self-taught developer, starting from a high school internship at a web agency in Stockholm. Along the way, my physical disability wasn't an obstacle. It became a catalyst for understanding how diverse perspectives drive innovation. Over 15+ years, I've grown from intern to engineering leader, but more importantly, I've learned that the most powerful teams are the ones where everyone thrives.
That belief led me to found Crip in Tech, an initiative dedicated to making the tech industry more inclusive for disabled people. Through Crip in Tech, we're building a community, sharing stories, and creating pathways for more crips to thrive in technology. The mission is simple: enrich the tech community with more disabled voices, perspectives, and talent.
If you're interested in supporting or getting involved with Crip in Tech, don't hesitate to reach out.
The Path Here
I've journeyed from a self-taught web developer to Head of Engineering, leading teams at companies across the industry. My approach centers on one core belief: great products come from great people. That means investing in personal and professional development, creating environments where people can do their best work, and constantly learning from mistakes.
I'm a strong believer in continuous improvement, whether that's refining processes, optimizing code, or helping team members grow. The goal isn't perfection; it's progress. And the best progress happens when everyone on the team feels empowered to contribute their unique perspective.
What I Speak & Consult On
I'm available for speaking engagements and consulting on:
- Inclusive engineering culture: Building teams where everyone belongs and can do their best work
- Engineering leadership: Growing from individual contributor to leading high-performing teams
- AI-assisted development: Practical guidance on leveraging AI tools to boost engineering productivity and team effectiveness
Technical Expertise
What I Value
In my work, I prioritize:
- Continuous learning: Staying curious about all parts of the organization and industry
- Ownership: Taking responsibility and being accountable for outcomes
- Constructive challenge: Healthy disagreement makes better decisions
- Honesty & transparency: Open communication builds trust
- Work/life balance: Sustainable pace leads to better work and happier people
- Real-world impact: Building things that matter to people
Bio
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Johnie Hjelm is a Head of Engineering with over 17 years of experience building high-performing teams and products. As a self-taught fullstack developer, he has grown from intern to engineering leader, focusing on people development and inclusive engineering cultures. Johnie is an advocate for AI-assisted development, helping teams leverage modern AI tools to boost productivity and effectiveness. He is also the founder of Crip in Tech, an initiative dedicated to making the tech industry more inclusive for disabled people. His unique combination of technical expertise, engineering leadership, and advocacy for both AI adoption and workplace inclusivity makes him a distinctive voice in the technology sector.
