When we think of software engineering careers, oftentimes we picture a “traditional” path - getting a four-year degree right out of high school, and entering the workforce at an entry-level position. However, software engineering is a great career choice, no matter what your current or previous experience.

We sat down with Amber Sorenson, one of our incredibly talented software engineers here at Kipsu, to talk about her career path, and how sometimes the less-traditional route can be an exciting way to enter a new field or industry.

How long have you been working at Kipsu?

I’ve been working at Kipsu for a little over 2 years now. 

What was your path to engineering?

My path to engineering was a bit different. I started out by teaching myself to code at home, but quickly realized I needed more structured guidance and someone to answer my questions. So, I enrolled in Prime Digital Academy, which is an intensive bootcamp for computer programming. The program was tough but really comprehensive, and I learned a TON of practical skills. Just a month after finishing the bootcamp, I landed my first tech job here at Kipsu! It really showed me the value of the education I got and how determined I was to succeed in this field!

What do you find rewarding about being a software engineer?

I find several aspects of being a software engineer incredibly rewarding. Firstly, the problem-solving nature of the job is very satisfying. I love the challenge of breaking down complex problems and finding efficient, elegant solutions. There's a great sense of accomplishment when you see your code come to life and work as intended.

Secondly, I appreciate the continuous learning and growth in this field. Technology is always evolving, and there’s always something new to learn, which keeps the work exciting and engaging. It’s rewarding to keep pushing myself and expanding my skill set.

Finally, the collaborative aspect of software engineering is something I enjoy. Working with a team of talented, passionate individuals, sharing knowledge, and tackling challenges together is both motivating and rewarding!

Do you have any defining or “aha” moments you’d like to share?

One defining moment for me was during my time at Prime Digital Academy. We were assigned a project where we had to develop a fully functional application from scratch. I decided to create a task management app, which seemed pretty straightforward at first. However, as I delved deeper, I encountered several challenges, particularly with integrating the back-end and front-end components seamlessly.

One evening, after hours of debugging and trying different approaches, I finally figured out the solution to a persistent issue that had been blocking my progress. It was a combination of properly understanding asynchronous programming and implementing a more efficient data handling method. When I saw the app running smoothly, with tasks being created, updated, and deleted in real-time, it was an incredible feeling of accomplishment.

This moment was pivotal because it reinforced my love for problem-solving and showed me the joy of seeing a project come to life. It also taught me the importance of perseverance and the value of continuously learning and adapting. That experience solidified my decision to pursue a career in software engineering and continues to inspire me whenever I face new challenges.

What’s your favorite thing about working at Kipsu?

My favorite thing about working here is the collaborative and innovative culture. From day one, I’ve felt welcomed and supported by my colleagues, who are always willing to share their knowledge and help each other out. The team-oriented environment makes working on projects much more enjoyable and productive.

Additionally, I appreciate the company's commitment to continuous learning and growth. There are always opportunities to expand my skill set, whether it was through AEP(accelerated engineering program), pair programming, or simply the daily challenges that push me to improve. 

What advice would you give to someone looking to become a software engineer?

My best advice for someone aspiring to become a software engineer is to start learning online. Follow along with YouTube tutorials—don't just watch, but actively code alongside them. Join a coding community and attend local or virtual meetups to network and learn from others. Seek out a mentor who can provide guidance and support. Most importantly, keep learning and practicing regularly. Continuous improvement and consistent practice are key to success in this field!

Whether you’ve taken a more traditional path in engineering, or are considering a career change, be sure to check out our open positions on our careers page to see if Kipsu is a good fit for you.