From my broad sample over the years, most of the good software engineers and architects are - and always have been - 'self-taught', even if many also happen to

From my broad sample over the years, most of the good software engineers and architects are - and always have been - 'self-taught', even if many also happen to have classical CS degrees. My experience is that good engineers getting things done is something that happens in engineer-led companies that pay well. If you're increasingly seeing the not-so-effective engineers then it's perhaps possibly a reflection that the company is one that doesn't try to or can't attract talent? This doesn't make it a bad place to be. All that matters is that people are happy and worklife is enjoyable.