Name: Michael McAlarney.
Role: Software Developer at Arity.
What does your typical day look like?
A typical day involves checking emails, organizing the day ahead, coding and running automated scripts, before analysing reports to make sure everything ran as expected.
What are you currently working on?
I’m currently working on the testing of the Routely app, making sure that everything runs smoothly as things change and then report issues as they are found.
What inspired you to join this company in particular?
The people and the culture. I come into work every day counting my lucky stars that I can work on such an interesting project with such a fantastic team. I am fortunate to led by forward-thinking and modern managers which only encourages you to do your best each and every day with a smile on your face.
Did you always want to work in this industry (tech)?
Ever since I was a young child, I was fascinated by computers, but Nintendo really pulled me in. I always wanted to discover each nook and cranny in any game, try things that were likely unintended and understand how the system architecture and the software actually works. I appreciated great software and game design, which helps me in my current role.
The Nintendo 64 is configured to save memory by only rendering the camera view (the screen the user can see at any given time) and that still blows my mind, as the rest of the 3D environment is ‘turned off’ until the camera is aimed at it. Even when technology was limited, boundaries were pushed to the edge, yet the end user had an excellent, modern experience being oblivious to the workings of the machine architecture.
What’s your favourite part about your work?
Coding and working with the people I work with. I love finding new and efficient ways to code and solve a problem. Equally, it is a joy to work with the incredible people I work with daily which makes work both fun and intriguing, so it is a great mix!
What would you say to other people considering a job in this industry (tech)?
If you are any way into technology, you are doing yourself an injustice not to consider a job in the industry. Just give it a go, be patient and focus on learning. The worst that will happen is that you’ll discover it isn’t for you and you can open a door to another path, the likelihood however is that you will enjoy it and you will already be on the right path.
What do you consider to be the most important tech innovation or development in recent years?
The most important tech innovation is blockchain - without a doubt. Blockchain promises the best in security and data protection technology can offer, while at the same time providing incredible value for the end user in the product/service they use that is built with Blockchain technology.
What tech gadget could you not live without?
Nintendo Switch. The games fill your life with joy and it’s a great way to switch off (no pun intended).
