I applaud you on you move to become a witness. Reading over your witness introduction post really allowed me to get to know you and your intentions with and for steem.
"dev-to-dev communications about Steem-related technicalities" With a focus on Steem development and preparing for SMT and gathering knowledge and planning prior to deployment is a solid strategy as opposed to waiting for it to drop and then start working. I really like this idea.
I am working to become a developer and have what I would like to think is a great idea to launch the Dev community within and around blockchain to a new level using the Steem platform and developer community as the base. Lets just say school and development would change forever. If you would be interested in hearing more look me up. You have my vote of confidence and I wish you all the luck on your journey as a Witness.
Pax Vo Biscum