October Avanade Developer Interview - CY

Intro

This month I interviewed?CY Yip, an Avanade Full Stack Developer in China.

Tell us a bit about yourself

My name is CY and I am based in Hong Kong. Currently, I work for Avanade as a Consultant Full-Stack Developer. I am originally from Hong Kong but grew up in Canada and worked in the US. I obtained my Bachelor of Software Engineering Degree at McMaster University in Canada. I have more than 5 years of experience in Software/Web Development and recently got into AI and Azure Cloud. In my free time, I like to travel the world, and I have been to 38 countries so far. I also love to attend hackathons and big tech conferences, to meet inspirational people and to keep up with the latest technologies.

What does your role entail?

As a Full-Stack Developer, I'm responsible for both Front-End and Back-End Development, using mainly Microsoft technologies. I’ve worked with Azure AI, Azure Cloud, Azure DevOps, and .NET Core. However, my role is not just about coding. I also use other skills like DevOps, Software Testing, and Project Management. I communicate with clients and Accenture co-workers regularly to translate business requirements into optimal solutions.

What is it you like about Back End Development?

As a Full-Stack Developer, I have worked in both Front-End and Back-End Development. Front-End Development is great for the instant gratification, but I prefer solving technical software problems rather than fine-tuning designs. There are many ways to solve a problem, and the satisfaction of getting something working is such a good feeling! Front-End Development is constantly changing, and sometimes it’s hard to follow all the latest trends and technologies. The skillset of a Back-End Developer typically doesn’t change much, so skills are transferable and easier to learn new technologies.

How would you describe Avanade and its culture?

After working for over a year at Avanade, I have to say that Avanade is definitely a great place to work. It is one of the world’s largest consulting firms with support from Accenture and Microsoft. One of the biggest benefits working at Avanade is that I get to experience a variety of roles and different projects. Everyone is smart, motivated, and highly engaged. Avanade has an open and inclusive culture, which allows everyone to voice their own opinions and share knowledge. Whenever I needed help, the HR or helpdesk will answer right away. Since Avanade is Microsoft’s biggest partner, they provide us with all the training required to become a Certified Microsoft Professional. From time to time, Avanade also host volunteering events and hackathons to improve personal development.

What kind of projects have you been involved with?

I have been working at different projects during my time at Avanade, and they are all unique in their own ways. I worked with government agency, insurance company, and global luxury brand. Some of the projects I have been involved with are Azure Cloud migration project, Azure AI/Machine Learning project, and also wrote scripts to clean up database. I often use MS technologies such as .NET Core, Azure AI, and Azure DevOps.

What’s your favourite gadget?

My favorite gadget is definitely my smartphone. It is pretty much the greatest invention of the 21st century, and it is something that we cannot live without. I carry it around in my pocket everywhere. Smartphones have such enormous uses. We tend to use them 24/7, and my life depends on it. Other than the basic functions like keeping in touch with friends/family/coworkers, I also use it to check out what’s happening locally and around the world through social media. With a smartphone in hand, it has replaced many other gadgets like camera, maps, wallet, music player, gaming console, laptop, etc.

What possessions would you take to a desert island and why?

There are many things I want to bring to a deserted island. However, I would try to avoid bringing any electronics gadgets. Other than bringing enough food and drinks, knife is also a very versatile tool. It can be used for hunting and for protection. With plenty of seafood around, I can have a never-ending sashimi buffet. Plus, a luxury yacht would be nice so that I can hop from island to island, enjoying the beautiful ocean with some nice cocktails.

What is your favourite film?

I have watched many great movies. However, the best movie I’ve seen so far is Avatar. After watching the movie in theatre, it totally blew my mind. Avatar is the first 3D movie that I very much enjoyed watching. The visuals are spectacular, the storyline is great, and best of all, the main characters have good acting. Throughout the runtime, I felt like I am immersed in the characters. Avatar has won many internationally acclaimed awards and set the bar for future 3D movies since it is unique. I am really looking forward to watching Avatar 2 in theatres this coming December. I have waited a very long time!

Do you have any hobbies or pastimes?

I have many hobbies, but my favourite remains to be traveling around the world. Whenever I have free time, I like to travel around to experience new culture and meet people. Due to COVID, HK has a lot of restrictions so cannot go to many places. Since then, I begin to hike and engage in watersports. Hiking allows me to see beautiful HK and there are many nice trails. HK also has nice weather year-round so I can go play watersports.

If you could go anywhere, where would you go?

I have travelled to many places around the world. However, if I could go anywhere, I would love to explore Africa one day. It might be challenging trip, but I think it will be worth it. Africa is a big continent with many countries, with a lot of culture and food, plus diversity of the people. Other than the safari, there is a lot of culture and nature to explore. I believe Africa is different than the rest of the world and some parts look very beautiful.

What advice would you give to people wanting have a great tech career and advice in general?

The most important thing to do in order to have a great career in tech is keep on learning. Some of the best developers that I know are all self-taught, and hungry for knowledge. It is not enough to keep learning, but also share knowledge with other people. Being passionate about the tech industry is also very important in order to be successful. The world of tech is constantly changing, especially in Software Development.

Summary

Thanks CY, I hope there is space for me on your dessert island adventures eating sushi everyday!?

I also have to mention that CY is being modest and actually came 2nd in the last internal global software engineering hackathon we ran with a fantastically innovative project.

Watch out for next months instalment in the?monthly Avanade developer interview article series.

And remember to check out our many many open positions at?careers.avanade.com

-- Lee