UPDATE: In a revealing interview with Business Insider, Blackstone’s CTO, John Stecher, disclosed how he maximizes his 35-minute subway commute to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. As technology becomes increasingly integral to business success, Stecher emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptation.
With the rise of artificial intelligence and other tech advancements, Stecher’s role is more critical than ever. He highlighted that technology has transitioned from being a secondary concern to a mainstay of competitive strategy. “If you have any type of creaky infrastructure technology-wise, it doesn’t matter which industry you’re in, you’re not going to be successful,” he stated.
Stecher’s daily routine showcases his commitment to professional development. Each subway ride is strategically utilized for reading articles and research papers from industries outside finance, such as aircraft, robotics, and pharmaceuticals. He believes that understanding how technology is applied elsewhere can lead to valuable insights. “You learn a ton about just how to apply different technologies in your industry,” Stecher noted.
On weekends, he dedicates one to two hours to hands-on experimentation with new tools, reinforcing his belief that practical application is essential. Stecher often builds simple solutions to streamline his work processes, like creating tools to efficiently parse investment committee memos.
While some of his projects may seem minor, such as using Anthropic’s AI chatbot, Claude, to automate household tasks, he finds them both challenging and rewarding. “It’s tactile and tangible,” he explained, underscoring the thrill of returning to the basics of engineering.
As the technology landscape continues to shift, Stecher’s proactive approach to upskilling serves as a model for professionals looking to thrive in a competitive environment. His story highlights how even brief moments, like a subway ride, can be leveraged for significant personal and professional growth.
Stay tuned for more insights from industry leaders as they navigate the complexities of technology and innovation.
