Senior Blockchain Engineer Shares Web2 to Web3 Transition Insights

Yurii Kovalchuk, a Senior Blockchain Engineer at Forte Group, shares his journey from Web2 to Web3, highlighting the unique opportunities and challenges that come with the transition. Kovalchuk's decision to leave the familiar world of Web2 was driven by a search for meaningful technology that aligned with his values and challenged his thinking. Since making the switch, he has found that Web3 offers a more rewarding compensation structure, true remote work, a different development mindset, and a strong emphasis on open-source collaboration.

One of the first things that stood out to Kovalchuk when switching to Web3 was the different compensation structure. Instead of fixed salaries and HR paperwork, Web3 projects often offer a mix of stablecoin payments, on-chain invoices, and token-based incentives. This structure adds a layer of motivation that is hard to replicate in Web2, as project tokens give developers a stake in the product they are building. However, this also comes with the risk of market volatility. Senior-level Web3 engineers often earn more than traditional tech leads, especially when combining base compensation with token incentives. The tradeoff is stability, as Web3 moves fast and projects can pivot quickly.

Web3 is also known for its true remote work culture. Distributed teams are the default, allowing developers the freedom to work from anywhere and set their own rhythm. Anonymity is often the norm, with payments going straight to wallets and no need for legal names or personal documents. This culture is built around asynchronous communication and autonomy, which can be isolating for those who thrive on in-person collaboration. However, for those who value independence, flexibility, and privacy, Web3 delivers in full.

The development mindset in Web3 is also unique. It is a space where cutting-edge ideas are shaping the future of cryptography, distributed systems, decentralization, and consensus algorithms. Traditional development approaches often do not apply, and experimentation is expected. This environment is perfect for developers who thrive on learning, tinkering, and building in uncharted territory. However, it also demands agility and a high tolerance for change, as adaptability is a crucial skill in Web3.

Open-source collaboration is at the core of Web3. Around 80-90% of all code written for blockchain projects is open-source by default, inviting scrutiny and encouraging community contributions. This openness is a trust-building mechanism in an industry where scams and rug pulls still exist. It also enables public, zero-cost code reviews that can help catch minor issues long before a formal audit. For developers who see open-source as a philosophy or a craft, Web3 gives them the space to live that out fully.

Despite its rapid growth, Web3 still operates in a landscape of legal uncertainty. Regulation varies widely from country to country, with some regions treating crypto as a legal gray zone. However, there is real momentum, with the approval of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs in the U.S. and expected developments for other digital assets in 2025. Web3 comes with endless possibilities but also its fair share of challenges, demanding adaptability, curiosity, and the willingness to grow through uncertainty.

Kovalchuk offers nine tips for developers looking to make the leap from Web2 to Web3. The first tip is to leverage Web2 experience, as strong fundamentals in programming, databases, and networking principles are valuable in Web3. The second tip is to master the fundamentals, including languages like JavaScript and Python, as well as core technologies and system design. The third tip is to build strong relationships with teammates and managers, as success in any role starts with taking responsibility and building trust. The fourth tip is to take initiative, own your work, and share what you know, as initiative gets rewarded in Web3. The fifth tip is to build a personal brand, as a unique perspective and visible expertise can help get noticed in a competitive market. The sixth tip is to follow Crypto Twitter, as it is the heartbeat of Web3 and a place to build your brand, grow your network, and unlock new opportunities. The seventh tip is to join hackathons, as they are a cornerstone of Web3 culture and offer investment opportunities, grants, or incubator invites for promising MVPs. The eighth tip is to contribute to open source, as it is one of the best ways to showcase your skills, signal good intentions, and build your reputation within the community. The ninth tip is to use AI to supercharge your workflow, as AI tools can dramatically boost your output and let you focus on real problem-solving instead of boilerplate.

In conclusion, transitioning from Web2 to Web3 is not just about switching tech stacks but a mindset shift. It means embracing uncertainty, staying adaptable, and becoming part of a fast-moving, global community. Web3 offers developers unprecedented freedom, innovation, and ownership, but it also demands continuous learning, resilience, and a bias toward action. If you are ready to take charge of your career and lean into change, Web3 can take you further than you imagined. The tips shared by Kovalchuk won't cover every challenge, but they will give you a solid head start. Welcome to the frontier.