# FDE Role Model

## Definition

Forward Deployed Engineer (FDE) — originated from Palantir. The bridge between AI technology and industry deployment. 800%+ YoY demand growth.

## Capability Triangle

- **Technical**: ML/DL, data engineering, edge deployment, cloud architecture
- **Industry**: domain knowledge, production process understanding, quality standards
- **Execution**: project management, stakeholder communication, rapid prototyping

## On-Site Diagnostic Checklist

1. Walk the production line; observe actual operations
2. Interview operators, line supervisors, quality engineers
3. Identify top 3 pain points with quantifiable business impact
4. Audit data availability: sensors, MES, ERP, manual logs
5. Assess IT/OT integration maturity
6. Evaluate organizational readiness for AI adoption

## Career Path

FDE -> Senior FDE -> FDE Lead -> FDE Director / Product Manager. Key differentiator: field deployment experience beats pure R&D credentials.

## Success Metrics

- Time to first quick win (target: < 2 weeks)
- POC-to-production conversion rate (target: > 60%)
- Customer NPS post-deployment (target: > 8)