Every month we are profiling one of the Web Services Department’s team members. This month we hear about Michelle, who is a programmer with Web Services.
How did you enter this career?
It began in 2009 when I studied Interactive Multimedia at Algonquin. From there I continued learning news skills to enhance and compliment my current skills such as design, animation, and visual effects. I also enrolled into a coding bootcamp in Toronto.
Where else have you worked?
I started off my professional career as a graphic designer in a publication firm and then landed a position at NRC. I then worked in the film industry at a visual effects studio in Montreal, Framestore Studios. A couple years later I moved back to Ottawa to work as a Web developer at a digital creative agency, Mcmillan.
What are some of the technologies you have used along the way?
Adobe software, web development frameworks and programming languages, Visual effects software, live-action footage and 3D/2D renders.
What are the best things about your job?
The team and the creative freedom to learn and offer unique solutions for challenges. Having colleagues or superiors who inspire and encourage can be a huge perk at any job and I am so happy to be able to work with such bright and happy people just like that. Being new to this position has been a learning experience, and It’s great to able to pick the brain of these talented developers – It’s inspiring!
Do you have some exciting projects you are working on right now?
Raven’s Design System in Typescript and React.JS and web design in Figma.
What music are you listening at the moment?
I enjoy all kinds of musical genres. Right now I am listening to a mixture. I really enjoy listening to jazz pop and soul for dinner parties and just to chill around. For a lively atmosphere, I enjoy old school r&b, electronic and reggae.
What are you reading at the moment?
I am reading web development and UI/UX articles.
What do you do outside of work to amuse yourself?
I love Netflixing. Every day I like to get outside and go for a walk with my dog, Nala, and tune into a series or movie. I am currently watching the newest season of Ozark and I just finished the reunion for Love is Blind season 2. Now that warm weather is approaching, I look forward to going on hikes and visiting wineries.
What exciting plans do you have coming up in the next year?
Nothing solid at the moment but I hope to be able to travel – a trip to Asia has been long discussed.