DevConf.US 2026

Kaitlyn Carcia Poulin

I am the Founder and Coach at The Parallax Practice, where I teach individuals how to thrive within complex systems without losing their sense of self. With over a decade of experience in the software engineering industry, spanning kernel development, quality, and release engineering, I understand the high-pressure mechanics of technical delivery. I’ve built a career on the belief that team growth, retention, and on-time delivery are best achieved through psychological safety and individual well-being. Today, I leverage my background as a Senior Engineering Manager and clinical mental health training to help leaders navigate the intersection of technical excellence and human-centered leadership.

Job title:

Founder & Coach, Former Red Hatter

Company or affiliation:

The Parallax Practice


Session

09-25
11:00
35min
Single Threading for the Human Brain
Kaitlyn Carcia Poulin

In this talk, I share strategies for managing cognitive fatigue drawn from my recovery after a mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI). As AI accelerates the pace of our work, the ability to protect and direct our focus has never been more critical. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how the brain processes information differently from machines and leave with practical, human-centered tips to boost your productivity and mental well-being.

Open Track
Hewitt Boardroom (Capacity 35)