Embracing Unconventional Paths: A journey to Workhuman
An Unconventional Route
Lianna Ryan, took a less conventional route to becoming a Senior Software Engineer, completing her Leaving Certificate (equivalent to the SAT’s in the US) at age 16. Instead of diving straight into college, she enrolled in in a PLC course in business where she was first introduced to web development.
This sparked an interest that she first pursued as a hobby, building websites for friends and family, and deepening her understanding of the digital world. After the PLC course, she continued to expand her knowledge by completing courses in computer programming and PC maintenance.
“Embracing this passion, I decided to apply for a bachelor's degree in Web Development and Creative Media as a mature student. It was a significant decision, but one that felt entirely right.”
“The diverse experiences I had leading up to this point provided me with a wide perspective that has benefited my approach in my professional field. I have learned that there is no single ‘correct' path in life; sometimes, it is the detours that lead us to where we want to be,” says Lianna.
Career background
Upon completing her degree, she started her career as an intern in web development/design, eventually choosing to specialise in web development.
“I have worked across several award-winning digital agencies in Dublin, working my way up from junior to lead frontend engineer,” she said.
Lianna tells us that her next step, joining Workhuman as a Senior Frontend Engineer, was a conscious decision.
“The company's mission of creating user-friendly, innovative digital products echoed my passion for delivering exceptional user experiences. Here, I am given the freedom to express my creativity and work closely with an incredibly talented group of product designers, QA (Quality Assurance) engineers, and backend engineers. It is the ideal platform for me to continue honing my skills, contributing to the tech community, and creating award-winning websites,” says Lianna.
Professional Highlights
Her professional journey has been marked by a series of enriching experiences and significant milestones. She has had the privilege of contributing to a range of noteworthy projects that have garnered industry recognition and awards. She has worked with several distinguished digital agencies in Dublin, developing websites that prioritized user accessibility and intuitive design.
“In my current role as a Senior Frontend Engineer at Workhuman, I have successfully navigated the challenges of mastering emerging technologies, contributing to our innovative digital products.”
She says, “beyond technical achievements, I have also been able to foster a collaborative, supportive environment within my team.” Her colleagues describe her as hardworking, always available to help, and knowledgeable in her field, demonstrating her commitment to both personal excellence and team success.
“These accomplishments, among others, continue to fuel my motivation and passion for my work in web development.” Says Lianna.
Fun stuff
Lianna has opted for the unconventional path in more ways than one aka you won’t find her enroute to Starbucks any time soon. As an avid coffee lover and foodie, she spends a good chunk of her personal time learning the art of pulling the perfect espresso and and indulging in her passion for cooking. Additionally, she has two fluffy feline companions named Pepper and Alf.
Big plans!
When talking to Lianna about where Workhuman is headed, she has this to say, “As Workhuman continues to evolve as a leader in the human resources software industry, I envision a future where our relentless pursuit of innovation and progressive growth will take center stage. Our commitment to develop intuitive and accessible digital products has always been a cornerstone of our work, and I see us further solidifying this commitment.”
Her goal is to contribute significantly to enhancing the functionality and performance of Workhuman’s digital products. With her expertise in frontend development, she aims to bring about advancements that will make the software more efficient and reliable.
“Our team will play a pivotal role in driving this growth. We all share a passion for excellence and a commitment to implementing innovative technological solutions. I see us fostering an environment of continuous learning and collaboration, where we share our knowledge and learn from each other's experiences,” she says.
Advice for budding Software Engineers
Her advice for budding software engineers? “Embarking on a career in frontend development can be a rewarding and fulfilling journey. It offers the opportunity to shape the digital experiences of countless users and contribute significantly to a company's success. For those considering this path, I would emphasize the importance of continuous learning. Technology evolves rapidly, and keeping up with the latest trends and tools is essential.”
Why Workhuman
When asked why Workhuman? Lianna says, “Workhuman presents a unique environment that encourages innovation, collaboration, and personal development. The company is composed of a diverse team of professionals who are passionate about creating top-tier digital products.”
“In addition to professional growth, Workhuman promotes a company culture that places high value on its employees, fostering a balanced and fulfilling work life. For both experienced professionals and those at the start of their career, Workhuman provides opportunities to learn, grow, and leave a lasting impact.”
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