Why did you choose Macaw as your first job?
Sam Bijhouwer. Fresh out of the world of studying, armed with a bachelor’s degree in information science and data engineering, and unsure of which job would fit me best, I wondered, what’s next? For my first job, the goal was to have enough freedom for learning and diving into the cutting edge of data technologies. Macaw found me through my network, a company known for its innovations and creative approach in the market.
“From the initial interview, it clicked – Macaw wouldn’t be just a job but also the right place for my ambition! The team is awesome! Everyone is very helpful and willing to learn. Although I live quite a distance from the office I try to be there as much as possible.”
Abdukarim Omar. My job was to assist and guide customers through the ins and outs of Power BI implementation. As I navigated through the data and visuals, I discovered a real passion for the role of a consultant. I wanted my career to be all about helping clients overcome challenges in their projects. That’s when I set my sights on joining the Macaw team.
“Why Macaw? It’s the ultimate place, offering me a variety of choices: building up my Power BI skills and evolving into an experienced consultant. The team is brilliant! From day one, I felt welcomed! Whenever there are questions or problems, there is always someone to help me out.”
Diederik Saliman. Well, my Bachelor’s was AI, and my Master’s was Data science, so I’m very inclined to work with machine learning models and applications of AI. However, most employers are looking for more full stack data scientists which makes it exceedingly difficult to find entry level jobs.
“Macaw was advised to me by a friend, and I really clicked with the company. I feel that I’m taken seriously and get a lot of freedom from the get-go. The team is very helpful, their spirit turns challenges into opportunities. Even though I have the luxury to work from home as much as I want, I find myself traveling to the office a lot more than I imagined.”
What is one biggest success so far?
Abdukarim: “One of my goals was to start a project and learn collaboration with a client ASAP. Luckily, I got such a chance already in my second month. To see the results of your effort at the final presentation is the reward worth the effort.”
Sam: “Being put on a Fabric Proof of Concept project at PWN. Initially, they wanted someone with more experience, but thanks to my dedicated team and mentor, I was backed up with all the knowledge and resources to convince a client I was the right fit. What’s more, Data Fabric is a brand new concept, and I am lucky to work and grow within such an innovative project at Macaw”.
Diederik: “I am in a project of another department that included AI elements, and I’m currently working on that project as we speak. It is an interesting combination of skills that I’m learning and I’m happy with the progress we made so far.”
What does the future hold for you at Macaw?
Diederik: “I plan to immerse myself in the world of AI applications and Data Engineering, soaking up as much knowledge as possible next few years. Macaw is already working on a few promising projects in these areas. I aim to be involved and see what the future unfolds for me.”
Abdukarim: “My goal is to continue developing my skills as a consultant. Now, with the changes around Power BI and Fabric, I want to extend my skills and be on future projects that will use both platforms”.
Sam: “I think Macaw has more than enough challenging projects to keep me busy learning and improving. And the team is awesome😊”.
What’s your top advice for any juniors joining Macaw?
Diederik: “Macaw values assertiveness. Be open and direct with those you’re learning from. Take the initiative to get to know them – a simple coffee break can go a long way in helping you integrate. Our people are incredibly open and excited about welcoming new colleagues!”
Sam: “Be thirsty and eager to learn. Be proactive and not afraid to start on new things you think you know nothing about. Eventually, you will end up learning new skills and broaden your expertise.”
Abdukarim: “At Macaw, many innovative projects are happening throughout the year and if you see the one you want to be part of, reach out to the team or have a coffee chat with someone involved!”
How do you usually rewind?
Diederik: “I like some alone time: watching a movie or diving into a new video game, balanced by “gezellig” time with my partner or friends. And, of course, I am in the table tennis gang, trying to hit the top of the list. The occasional “borrel” brings even more diversity and joy”.
Abdukarim: “My routine for unwinding is boxing! I live next to a boxing gym, and after work, I usually go to a class where I can steam off and, hopefully, avoid a few punches. On days with good weather, I also enjoy a refreshing run in the park”.
Sam: “Go to the gym, play football or games. Also, I go out for a drink or have quality time with my friends and partner. Interestingly, table tennis is the one I picked up at Macaw! We even got our “Leaderboard” with top players, adding a fun competitive spirit to our breaks!”
Choose one word that describes you😊
Diederik: “I was curious how Chat GPT would describe me in one word. Ambitious. Can’t agree more. I have clear goals I’m determined and proactively going to achieve. And the Macaw environment is the right for setting the bar high, everyone is open to supporting me even if my plans evolve over time, as plans often tend to do”.
Abdukarim: “Curiosity! I always love exploring the unknown, to the dismay of my parents having to look for me whenever I disappeared 😅 Macaw is giving me a chance to explore the direction I want my career to be. So, I now must see where it goes!”
Sam describes himself as a versatile, both in enjoying different sports and trying out new technologies.
