Route Map showing Day 08 of the TransAmerica Bicycle Trail, Dayville to Austin Junction Oregon

A trip like this requires lots of planning. I use different types of maps, read up on the latest conditions, check up on what services are available where (especially in these remote stretches), and get intelligence from other travelers and locals.

But planning has limits. At some point, you just have to get out there and gain experience. That's true in most parts of life, including your career.

And it's especially true for new technology innovations such as quantum computing and the associate roadmaps. The plan will never be complete. You'll never be fully ready. And over-planning is a counter-productive waste of your time.

Don't delay. Sure, read what you can and learn from others. But sooner versus later, dive in and go get yourself your own experiences.

Photo, Day 08 of the TransAmerica Bicycle Trail, Mandy in front of covered wagon a pointing to her covered bicycle trailer, at a roadside historical marker for the Oregon Trail

Two covered wagons! I feel like a pioneer, even though thousands of people have traveled the TransAmerica Bicycle Trail since the BikeCentennial in 1976.

Making memories
  • I'm camping at Bates State Park this evening. It's a former lumber mill with some interesting history. They also have hiker/biker specific sites with electricity, which I always appreciate for recharging. There were only a couple of other people at the campground and it was my most peaceful night yet. I left the rainfly off of my tent and fell asleep gazing at the stars.
  • At the covered wagon, I met Trixie from the US Forest Service. He coordinates aerial support and was coming to Oregon from Florida to fight fires. He's also done an Ironman and we enjoyed a conversation about cycling and adventure.

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Mandy Birch is a global executive engineer and military veteran who builds teams, leaders, & multinational organizations that unlock the potential of disruptive ideas. She enjoys accelerating emerging technologies & strategic partnerships to drive multi-generational thriving for people & communities around the world.

Mandy's interests include: #innovation #leadership #technology #partnerships #quantumcomputing #career #growth #womenintech #veterans #entrepreneurship #creativity #future #foreignpolicy #democracy #geopolitics



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