TSW #3 - Kristel Meikas

30 October 2012

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I’ve been working in IT for almost 9 years (which seems like a surprisingly long time written out like that). I’ve tried rather different specializations from forensic expert to system analyst/project manager and currently I’ve settled on being a software developer at AlphaGIS working on map applications and GIS (geographic information system) for web, desktop, and mobile platforms. The biggest attraction of any given job is its prospect for self development.

How would you describe yourself in 5 sentences?
Sometimes I think too much, at other times I act on instinct - its hard to tell which works out better for me. I love to discover new things, but I also love the comfort of old and reliable things. I’m definitely a gamer, both in real life and with computers. Generally friendly, optimistic and easygoing. All that and more wrapped up in a geeky and at times a bit quirky girl-next-door sort of a package.
I thought I could cheat on this question a bit and ask from my friends, but I don’t dare to repeat all they said, they’re too nice :P

What are your current projects related to technology?
At the moment all such projects are work-related. I’ve been toying with the idea of a small web application just to learn some new technologies, but haven’t gotten around to it yet.

How did you discover and first become engaged in technology? 
I think a lot of it comes from my father, who always had the coolest gadgets stashed away when I was a kid. Sometimes I’d watch him use them, other times I’d dig them out secretly and try to figure out how they worked or what they were for. Then later on, I sometimes got to go to his work and play Xonix, Alleycat and such and got a bit better acquainted with computers. But the actual decision to study IT came from when I saw and heard what my brother was doing at TUT (Tallinn University of Technology) - despite my rather humanitarian education so far I liked the idea of applying my knowledge in a rather practical way.

What or who inspires you?
I guess I’m most inspired by great ideas - whether seeing them realized or being there when they’re born. Also, I always admire people who are really passionate about and good at the things they do. That makes me want to become better, too.

What is the biggest problem you have ever come across with technology?
I used to have a knack of breaking things or making them work (stop working) in unintended ways and at inopportune moments. Car electronics, bank terminals, alarm systems.. That used to be my superpower. Hopefully I’ve lost it by now.
But seriously, I can’t actually think of any, at least none that have remained unresolved.

If you could make a video/computer game, what would it be about?
It would probably be an RPG (role-playing game) of some sort, because that’s my favourite genre. Although I definitely wouldn’t do it alone, more likely I’d apply for a job at Bioware, because their games are some of my favourites. Or if I had to do it all by myself, it would perhaps be an odd little brainteaser or puzzler.

What is the best advice anyone has ever given to you?
This took some thinking. I suppose it’s to stand up for myself and believe in myself and my abilities more.

What would be your message to novice female technologist to give them a heads up or encouragement?
Don’t be intimidated by what you don’t know and don’t be afraid to ask. If you want to learn it and get good at it, just go for it.
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