Keeping the beat: What drumming taught me about platform engineering

Drumming and platform engineering may seem worlds apart, but both rely on supporting others, maintaining steady momentum, and working seamlessly behind the scenes. In this talk, Herrmann draws parallels between learning to drum as a complete beginner and leading a platform engineering team. He reflects on early mistakes, coordination challenges, and the importance of listening: lessons that resonate deeply with platform work. From setting up a team like configuring a drum kit to navigating “make vs. buy” decisions and understanding the value of internal feedback loops, Herrmann shares practical strategies with humor and humility. Attendees will walk away with fresh insights on team structure, tool selection, measuring impact, and maintaining the steady rhythm that enables engineering teams, and organizations, to thrive. Learn more: https://platformcon.com/sessions/keeping-the-beat-what-drumming-taught-me-about-platform-engineering