Becoming a Software Developer: Traci Thompson

In this series from Flatiron School, we’ll be talking to women in tech about their career journey, the essential lessons they’ve learned, and how more women can follow the path to join essential roles in computing.

This interview features Traci Thompson, Software developer at Sparkfun Electronics.

How would you explain your role to a 5th grader?

I build and maintain the internal software and E-commerce website for SparkFun Electronics. Writing code, reviewing the work of others, collaborating and project planning are all parts of my day to day work.

What inspired you to follow this particular career path?

I chose this career path for all of the opportunities it affords me in terms of flexibility, creative expression, and learning opportunities. Having someone already in the technology field motivating and encouraging me also gave me the confidence to pursue such a challenge.

If you could go back 5 years ago and talk to yourself at that time, what would you share with her about her future in this career?

Every challenge you face is an opportunity for growth. Don't let the struggles weigh you down but instead look for the doors that they open.

What were the most important actions you took that helped you land the job role you have now?

Determination to succeed opened many doors for me, as well as keeping an open mind. Having quality work available for my employer to interact with was also pertinent to acquiring my position.

Tell us about the most exciting (or inspiring, or creative) thing you've done so far in your career?

I've gotten to pursue Javascript libraries of personal interest within my work and develop data visualizations to portray diversity statistics within the company.

What was it like attending Flatiron School?

Attending Flatiron School online was both challenging and rewarding. It required a lot of self-determination and a willingness to be challenged. I work best independently so this played to my strengths and I feel that the program was designed in a way that gave you back as much as you put into it. 

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CODING DAY WORKSHOP FOR BEGINNERS
June 29, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 

Join Flatiron School on Saturday, June 29th for a one-day coding workshop that will expose you to the basics of front end development, including HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Throughout the day, you'll have an opportunity to build a project from scratch with support and feedback from our instructors and your new coding friends! By the end of the day, you will leave with something you're proud of, tools for continued learning, and the building blocks to create a website!

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