I have to thank Cory House for mentioning this article about Why Do You Do What You Do Because You Better Know. With some changes happening, this is something I have personally had to face. I am wrapping up things at The Software Guild at the end of this month, as I have decided it’s time for me to pursue other career directions. Talking with some people, the “why do you do what you do” and the “what do you do” questions have come up. It’s been interesting chatting with them, though, as I find my friends and contacts in the field see other directions for me, which don’t align with my vision. So I figured I’d put this out there for others to see… what do I do? And why do I do what I do?
What Do I Do?
There are many things that I enjoy:
- Organizing conferences and other tech events
- Speaking at conferences
- Teaching in the classroom
- Mentoring – in-person, over coffee/tea, via email, online
- Creating technical programs for others – be it lessons, modules, after-school programs, or larger programs
- Making tech less scary, more approachable to others
- Social media – blogging, Tweeting, engaging with others online
Some people may see my steps in the leadership, teaching, and mentoring realm as going soft. However, I also have technical interests, including:
- Data engineering – especially exploring various platforms and tools:
- D3.js
- R
- Python
- SQL Server
- Web development – especially looking at the various CSS platforms and JavaScript libraries out there
- API development – reading up on strategies
- DevOps!!!
- finally, something that allows me to put my dev skills and IT skills to work TOGETHER and makes sense
- User experience development
Why Do I Do What I Do?
Long story, short… it’s fun! I have always enjoyed playing with technology. When I learn a new tech, you will hear the word play used, as that’s how I see exploring applications of technology and concepts. Whether I’m building a sample app to prove a concept can be done or really have a legitimate use for these tools, I take fun approaches to technology, keeping my curiosity and interest up.
When I take on contracts and work with others, I choose to partner with companies that keep me on my toes, challenge me in good ways, and help bring out the best in themselves and others. I find companies and people that align with my beliefs, morals, ethics, and general career direction. I want to make sure that I make a positive impact to the world.
Over time, I have realized that not all people can teach others. There are certain levels of communication and patience needed, and somehow I have those. I enjoy building materials and teaching them because of the impact – watching others become more informed, seeing those “ah-ha” moments. When I know that I can teach others something complex and have them realize it isn’t that complicated and really is approachable, that makes me have hope in the world… hope for humanity, hope for future generations… or at least for today.
I also appreciate the flexibility that I have in this career, especially at this point in my career, over 15 years in tech. Being able to make my own schedule, being able to volunteer at my kids’ school, being able to go out to lunch with my husband… being able to put in time working when my kids are asleep (or choosing to spend some of that time with my husband)… having that kind of flexibility is invaluable. So part of what I do is indeed for the flexibility.
So What’s in Store for 2018?
I have some folks reaching out to me to help build programs for them. Also, restructuring my LLC for Space Apps last year means I have contracting companies trying to get me into federal contracts. If you see something in my “What Do I Do?” that may benefit you and if you see that we may align in the “Why Do I Do What I Do?” part, reach out to me here or on Twitter, and we can take it to email as well. I look forward to partnering with others in 2018, especially those who can put my talents to use and align with my goals and beliefs.