Welcome to factor10, Katharina Damschen!

Hi Katharina, you just joined factor10. Welcome! What do you like most about being a coding architect in software development?

There are many things, but I especially like the process of breaking down complex problems into seemingly simple solutions. I like it best when that process is collaborative and when I feel I learn a lot along the way.

What did you do before you joined factor10?

I studied Structural Engineering in Germany, where I earned my Master’s degree. I then spent several years working as a software engineer in the construction industry where I developed geotechnical analysis and tunnel navigation applications.

When I moved to Sweden, I transitioned into building distributed web applications and mobile backends at Optidev/Techstep, helping frontline workers at for example PostNord and Västtrafik work more efficiently.

Most recently I have been working at Trafikverket, the Swedish Transport Administration where I have been developing a web application supporting the implementation of Europe's new railway signaling system ERTMS.

And then one day I saw an intriguing job ad on LinkedIn ...

What made you realise factor10 was the right place for you?

Reading the job description, it really checked all my boxes. And then talking to everyone here at factor10 and realising how humble and genuinely nice and honest they are.

Suzi was the first person from factor10 that I met, and her attitude towards hiring stood out. It was obvious that she really wanted to find the right person. She made me feel that it was just as important that I wanted to work at factor10 as that the team wanted to work with me.

I also liked the way the coding interview was conducted. I was solving a problem in roughly an hour, with Per giving me feedback while I was writing the code. He was at least as invested as I was, and it was a quick way to evaluate each other.

Then the team invited me to myConf just because they thought I would enjoy it, no strings attached, which was very nice. And I did enjoy it very much!

We’re thrilled that you liked us as much as we liked you, Katharina! On top of being skilled and smart, you also share our passion for excellence, for delivering outstanding solutions to customers, and for sharing ideas with the community.

Just one more thing before we let you get back to problem-solving and coding. As factor10 is a fully remote company, where will you be working from most days?

I’ll be working from Sandhult, just outside of Borås, where I live with my family and four backyard chickens.

PS. If you want to reach out to Katharina (or just find out what her chickens are called), you can check out her profile page here.