Meet Don, Front End Production Portfolio Lead for our Application Services Organization
"I knew I wanted to be in an environment where I could find plenty of opportunities to learn and grow my career, with good benefits. This was in 2000 when dotcoms were still hot but I wanted to work for a big company that's reputable and stable. The combination of technical, personal and teaming aspects of the position were very interesting so when IBM gave me the offer, I took it without hesitation."
Putting Skills to Work
Don says that his degree prepared him for several different job roles; Software Engineering, Database Administration, Systems Administration and Network Administration. He was not sure, at the time, which role he would like better but the IBM account and team were flexible enough to allow him to work on all four major roles. This allowed Don to discover which role he was best suited to and therefore focus and develop his skills from Database Administrator to Database Architect.
Personal Satisfaction
One of the things Don enjoys most about working at IBM is, "There always something new to learn everyday and there's never a lack of help, especially when you need it." He also says that "making a difference in your client's business...and being able to make a positive contribution to the community makes my day, everyday."
Don's advice to others regarding personal satisfaction: "It is very easy to get immersed in the work you do so I would recommend that you create your own weekly routine. Take advantage of the flexible work schedule that you have in IBM and develop your health, fitness and spiritual side, which can be equally as rewarding."
Part of a Larger Community
According to Don he has been "lucky in the sense that there were always people who cared about me and supported me personally in IBM. Networking with people is definitely important and key to how I got here today." He also says that "one of the things I like about IBM is that you'll always be working with smart people... people are serious in what they do and are proud to be an IBMer."
"IBM is also very flexible when it comes to work-life arrangements. In my last project, my team was flexible enough to allow me to work remotely for 2 months at a time so that I could spend more time with my family. That is a major benefit you seldom find in other large companies and as a result, employees are more willing to stay and talent is retained."
Words of Wisdom
Don says "If I went back to year 2000 and had to choose again, I would still pick IBM. It is the best place to learn and grow if you're right out of university." At IBM you will have plenty of opportunities to choose from..." you can switch roles, work remotely, go to school, take a leave of absence... the possibilities are endless. Employee benefits are also good... Plenty of training and resources for you to utilize. So what are you waiting for?"