We need business leaders who have a respect for technical issues even if they don't have technical backgrounds. In a lot of U.S. industries, including cars and even computers, many managers don't think of technology as a core competency, and this attitude leads them to farm out technical issues.

In this quote, Edwin Catmull, a co-founder of Pixar Animation Studios, emphasizes the need for business leaders to have a respect for technical issues, even if they don’t have a technical background themselves. He argues that in many industries, particularly in cars and computers, a lack of appreciation for technology at the managerial level leads to decisions that overlook the importance of technical competency. Catmull is suggesting that effective leadership today requires an understanding of the technical aspects of a business, even if the leaders are not experts in those fields.

Catmull points out that in several U.S. industries, the absence of a technical mindset among managers results in a tendency to outsource or farm out technical issues to specialists rather than integrating technology as a core part of the business strategy. This approach can limit the company’s growth and innovation, as managers fail to leverage the full potential of technology to drive progress and efficiency. By distancing themselves from the technical aspects, companies might miss out on valuable opportunities to innovate or improve operations.

The statement is a critique of how many businesses fail to recognize the value of technology as a central driver of success, not just a tool to be handed off to others. Catmull’s insight highlights the importance of having leadership that understands technology as a competitive advantage, regardless of their professional background. Leaders who respect technical issues can make more informed decisions, ensuring that technology is fully integrated into their company's strategies and operations.

Ultimately, Catmull’s quote advocates for a shift in leadership thinking—one that recognizes technical expertise as essential to a company’s long-term success. He encourages business leaders to be curious and engaged with the technical side of their industries, even if they don’t have a technical background. This perspective, according to Catmull, is crucial for businesses to stay competitive and thrive in a technology-driven world.