In the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), the Solution Train Engineer (STE) is the counterpart to the Release Train Engineer (RTE) at the solution level. While an RTE ensures coordination within an Agile Release Train (ART), the STE is responsible for coordinating multiple ARTs and suppliers that jointly deliver a complex solution.
In short, the STE is the chief facilitator, coach, and servant leader for the entire Solution Train.
Practical relevance
The main tasks of an STE include:
• Facilitating large events such as pre- and post-PI planning or solution demos.
• Coordination across multiple ARTs, including suppliers and partners.
• Creating transparency and flow by identifying and addressing dependencies and risks between ARTs.
• Coaching RTEs and managers at the solution level.
• Continuously improving processes and structures.
This role is indispensable for mastering complexity, especially in cyber-physical systems or large, business-critical platforms.
Interaction with other roles (RACI perspective)
In a Solution Train, the STE works closely with other key roles:
• Solution Management – responsible for content alignment (responsible for vision and roadmap, STE is accountable for flow here).
• System Architect/Engineering – ensures technical consistency (STE supports by ensuring synchronization).
• Business Owners – carry business goals and priorities (STE provides transparency and decision-making forums).
• RTEs – operate at the ART level, while the STE coordinates at the solution level (collaborative partnership).
In a RACI matrix, the STE can usually be described as accountable for coordination & facilitation, while content (features, architecture, business objectives) is the responsibility of other roles.
Typical misunderstandings
❌ "The STE is just a 'big RTE'" – in reality, the responsibility lies more at the system level and in interface management.
❌ "The STE controls content" – no, that remains with solution management and architects. The STE ensures process, flow, and transparency.
❌ "Any RTE can automatically become an STE" – the role also requires experience in scaling, systems thinking, and facilitating large groups.
Relevance for organizations
An experienced STE brings clarity and stability to highly complex value streams:
• End-to-end view across multiple ARTs.
• Synchronization of hundreds of participants in large programs.
• Early detection of risks and dependencies.
• Strengthening of self-organization across the entire solution.
If the role is missing or poorly filled, silos between ARTs, duplication of work, or unclear responsibilities often arise.
Practical example
In a large corporation in the field of vehicle software, more than 15 ARTs and several external partners were involved. It was only through the introduction of an experienced STE that it was possible to coordinate dependencies, establish consistent PI planning for the entire solution, and manage risks at an early stage. The result: improved predictability and fewer escalations at the management level.
CALADE perspective
Our work shows that an experienced STE is crucial for the success of large solution trains. In addition to technical SAFe knowledge, strong facilitation skills, systems thinking, and experience with complex organizations are required.
At CALADE, we not only provide support with RTEs, but also with the training and provision of STEs – because we know that this role is often underestimated, but is central to success at the solution level.
Related terms
• Release Train Engineer (RTE)
• Agile Release Train (ART)
• Solution Management
• System Architect/Engineering
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