AAPI Heritage Month Feature

*Shining more light on the 2021 AAPI Features and announcing their addition to the website.

What accomplishment in your career are you most proud of?

The biggest accomplishment in my career that I'm most proud of is my transition to leadership and surviving it! I grew up and studied in the Philippines. I started my career as a Software Engineer in the Philippines and eventually had an opportunity to move to San Francisco through my then-employer. After my first 2 years in the US, I had the opportunity to take on an Engineering Management role. The transition was both challenging and rewarding. It was like starting a new career all over again! My software engineering background was helpful, of course, but leadership roles also require a whole new set of skills! I've now been in leadership for about 5 years and had worked in different companies in the bay.

One thing is for sure -- interviews in the bay is far difficult compared to the interviews in the Philippines! I definitely underestimated that the first time I looked for a new job here! In addition, engineering leadership roles are a combination of technical, people management, product management, and project management skills! That is true for interviews too! My first few years in leadership roles were not easy but it definitely got better overtime! It's always a learning process.

What advice would give someone interested in joining a tech company?

Set short- and long-term career goals and make sure you actually work towards them. Have mentors within and outside your organization. Get involved in the community, learn from other people. Listen and be open to feedback and work on your areas of growth. If you're not given feedback, ask for it. Consistent feedback is important so you can continuously get better at your craft. Never stop learning. Never feel that you are already the best. Keep on improving and learning new skills. Outside work, try to learn something new. You are responsible for your own career. It's not your manager or anyone else. Most importantly, enjoy life. It's important to do great at work, but it's also as important to have a life outside work!