Why are you a Software Engineer?

In college I tried two careers, Pre-Med and Computer Science. Both were professions that I had a desire to pursue since high school. Early on in my introductory courses in Computer Science, I felt like I had discovered a previously unfound skill and I genuinely enjoyed working with my peers. I found that interpreting project requirements into software applications came easily for me. I continue to love what I do and I enjoy pleasing clients with first-rate finished products.

What do you like about Software Engineering?

The challenge of a new project is the most exciting aspect of my work. Especially fulfilling is the personal growth that comes hand in hand with new projects that push the limits of my knowledge and give me the opportunity to expand my skills to better fit a client’s needs. Being a Software Engineer means thinking through an entire project, from planning and organization to implementation, anticipating as much as I can with the intention of impressing my clients. I want my client and their customers to view the final product with genuine “oohs and ahhs”

How good are you at what you do?

I believe that I am very skilled with web applications. Years of experience, top-notch training, and wonderful mentors have given me the necessary foundation on which I continue to build. I am also comfortable with the graphic design aspect of application development and enjoy the challenges of UI design. In most of my work I take the lead and plan the course and scope of the project. I am fortunate to have earned the respect of many of my peers in my field and am often sought out for my knowledge and expertise.

What role do you feel you play in helping other companies with their product?

The role I play is primarily advisor in the beginning of any project. I often find that most clients know they want something, but are not sure what is best based on their products or company. My job in the initial stage is to help clients organize their ideas, offer suggestions and plan out an overall project that will solve their immediate and future needs. Once we have come up with a clear direction, developing the project through an interactive process with the client is crucial. At the end of a project it is also important for me to continue to help the client by making sure that the end result continues to fulfill their needs.

How much do you know about application development?

I have experience with small companies on simple website, CD applications, small software project. I also have enterprise experience working on auditing and reporting software for companies such as IBM, Marriott and Best Western. I have seen numerous software engineering life cycles and have found that determining the best development method really requires fully understanding the entire scope of the project.

I am comfortable with both web development and windows development. I have some background with Linux based programming. I’ve also recently started learning Objective-C for the iPhone/iPod Touch applications.

What are some of the development languages and background that you have?

My primary development experience has been in the .NET world with both windows and web applications. I have also developed projects in Java, PHP, Flash, Javascript, Actionscript, Flex, and ColdFusion. I have a thorough understanding of XML, HTML, XSL, AJAX and Web Services and feel that I am proficient with MS SQL Server and MySQL.

I am really comfortable in both the Windows and Linux environments as well and take pride in knowing and understanding how they both work.