Hello! My name is Og (pronounced Auggie) Maciel and I was named after the American author Og Mandino. I was born in the northern-most part of Brazil but have adopted The United States of America as my home since 1991.
I work remotely as a Software Engineering Senior Manager for Red Hat and have self-published a few books.
I first learned to program in Basic on a TK90X while reading Input magazines, which my mom would order specially for me. But what I really wanted to do was gene therapy, which is the reason why I earned a B.S. in Biochemistry from Pace University in Pleasantville, New York.
After knocking around a couple of pharmaceutical startups, big and small, I eventually quit the rat race and moved from New Jersey to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, to join my very first Open Source company, rPath, where I learned some of the most important lessons of my life, starting with how to Sweep the Floor.
What I Enjoy
- Reading fiction and nonfiction, especially historical fiction, speculative sci-fi, and emotionally resonant stories
- Writing books, reviews, and newsletters (like Bellwether)
- Programming and building software tools (e.g., Capacitator, BEAM, Potentializer)
- Leading workshops and creating hands-on learning experiences (e.g., Ollama Drama, The Llamanator)
- Solving complex problems and automating workflows
- Organizing hackathons and proof-of-concepts to foster team creativity
- Learning new technologies, frameworks, and AI capabilities
- Crafting witty and engaging communications (announcements, review blurbs, etc.)
- Mentoring and helping others grow
- A good cup of coffee during focused work time
- Planning and iterating on projects with structure and purpose
- Reflecting through writing—about work, family, and life
- Creating meaningful rituals and memories with my family
What I Value
- Honesty—even when it's tough, especially in feedback and communication
- Kindness—toward teammates, family, and community
- Humbleness—staying grounded despite achievements
- Curiosity—both intellectual and emotional, driving lifelong learning
- Humor—especially clever, thoughtful wit
- Grit—perseverance through complex projects and life's challenges
- Creativity—expressed in writing, leadership, problem-solving, and parenting
- Growth mindset—personally and in those I mentor or hire
- Meaningful connections—within my team, my family, and my community
- Psychological safety—creating environments where people feel supported and can take risks
- Balance—between productivity and well-being, especially for my team and family
- Legacy—leaving behind not just accomplishments, but values passed on to my children and mentees