Changelog Master Feed From Chef to System Initiative (remastered) (Changelog Interviews #655)
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Aug 21, 2025 Adam Jacob, founder of Chef and System Initiative, dives deep into his tech journey from an 8-year-old SysAdmin to launching the innovative Opscode. He shares insights on the transformative power of Linux and open source, reflecting on both personal anecdotes and industry evolution. The discussion also highlights the impact of AI on coding, touches on leadership dynamics, and explores the emotional aspects of tech communities. Jacob’s journey illustrates resilience, collaboration, and the ever-changing landscape of software development.
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Early Bulletin Board Beginnings
- Adam Jacob started running bulletin boards as a kid and used them to give friends internet access by rebooting into Linux.
- His early curiosity about dialing other computers and FidoNet shaped a lifelong obsession with connecting people via computers.
First ISP Job Launched Career
- At 16–17 Adam got hired by a mom-and-pop ISP and became the de facto systems administrator by doing the most interesting work.
- That hands-on ISP experience taught him real systems and led directly into his Linux and operations career.
Open Source Fueled Career Acceleration
- Linux and open source gave Adam free access to source code and community mentorship, which bypassed formal education.
- That openness catalyzed his career and made him deeply value licensing and community growth.