My Journey as a Software Developer: From Hockey Rinks to Code Lines
Published: 2024-02-06 09:09:34


![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/afnquapwv1e2lkktmzxo.JPG)Hello there! My name is Mac, and I want to take you on a journey through my life as a Software Developer. While my current domain is the world of coding and technology, it all started in a charming town just north of Toronto, where I spent my childhood days chasing hockey dreams on the competitive AAA rinks.

Growing up in Ontario: Where It All Began

Growing up in Ontario, competitive AAA hockey was more than just a sport; it was a way of life. The ice rinks were my second home, and the camaraderie formed on and off the ice was priceless. Those early days taught me valuable life lessons, like teamwork, discipline, and perseverance—skills that would later prove to be just as essential in the world of software development.

From Hockey to Code: My Transition

As much as I loved the thrill of the game, there came a point where I realized that my true passion lay elsewhere. I found myself drawn to the world of technology and coding. This transition wasn't easy, but it was exciting and filled with new challenges.

Skills that Set Me Apart

My journey into software development equipped me with a diverse skill set. Today, I am proficient in algorithm design, database management, code optimization, API integration, version control, and I'm currently trying to get my feet wet in machine learning. These skills have not only allowed me to craft elegant and scalable code but have also enabled me to find innovative solutions to complex problems.

Experiences that Shaped Me

My professional journey has been a thrilling ride, starting as an Android Application Developer at Hygge Energy. From research and planning to app launch and client support, I was deeply involved in every step of the Android application development lifecycle. I also made significant contributions to back-end data services, ensuring uniformity in programming languages, and refining logical and physical specifications.

My role as a Full-Stack Developer at Stackscom Systems was a pivotal moment. Crafting user-centric websites with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and ReactJS was my daily bread. I focused on performance and responsive design, and I took pride in developing specialized technology solutions for membership management, streamlining internal processes, and enhancing efficiency.

Most recently, I tried my hand as a Communications and Data Analysis Intern with the

Saskatoon Blades. There, I had the opportunity to assist in designing marketing campaigns across various channels and delve into data analysis, a skill I'd honed through trial and error during long days at the rink. 

Education and Beyond

My Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Science from the University of Saskatchewan laid the foundation for my journey. Courses in Machines and Algorithms, Advanced Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, and more provided me with a well-rounded education. But my curiosity and thirst for knowledge in the ever-evolving tech world continue to drive me forward.

And now...

My journey from the hockey rinks of Ontario, to the world of software development has been an incredible adventure. The lessons I learned on the ice—teamwork, discipline, and perseverance—have seamlessly integrated into my coding journey. I hope you'll join me as we delve deeper into my experiences, insights, and the intricate world of software development. Together, we'll uncover the threads of code, innovation, and determination that have shaped my story and continue to inspire my journey.

Stay tuned for more as we explore the exciting world of technology through my eyes.