Asidua

Paul

I graduated from the National University of Ireland, Galway in August 2002 with an Honours degree in Information Technology. I then moved to the U.K. for four years, working as a Cache developer for three of these years. Following this I travelled Asia, Australia and New Zealand for 18 months. On my return I realised that I’d been out of the IT world for so long that my programming skills had become outdated. I saw graduate programmes as being my best way of getting back into the IT industry. The programme on offer from Asidua met with the criteria that I was looking for – an introduction to the latest technologies, study towards recognised certifications and a structured progression upwards through a successful company.

Work in Asidua
Since starting in April 2007 the work has been hectic but enjoyable. I think this comes from the fact that we’re still a smallish office in Dublin, so it means that you’re constantly involved in and aware of whatever is going on. My first project used Microsoft ASP.Net and C#, as well as Windows Workflow Foundation and SQL Server. As I was new to these technologies it was a challenge getting up to speed on them but the training I was provided with, along with the help offered to me from others in the company meant that I was fully comfortable when the time came to start developing.

Training at Asidua
The training offered by Asidua is extensive. They understand that a business is only as good as their people and so they invest heavily in them. In the first nine months of the job I’ve taken and passed a Microsoft Certified course on the .Net framework and will take the next course on web-based development before the end of my first year. I’ve also attended a week long course on the BizTalk framework, as it looks like this will be needed for future projects. The graduate scheme also provides a lot of additional, non-techie training. The scheme includes modules on communication, time management and presentation skills – which are essential to have, especially for those entering a working environment for the first time. It also includes team-building days away which are a great laugh and give you a chance to really get to know the rest of the graduates.

Fun at Asidua
My team gets on really well together, which makes for a fun and relaxed working environment in itself.We also try to get out and do something after work once a month, whether it’s a night racing at the dog track, going to a gig or just going for dinner and a few drinks, we always manage to have a laugh.

Final Thought
I’ve only been with Asidua a short while but am enjoying it hugely. Not only is the work new and interesting but I’m also picking up lots of valuable knowledge and skills that will help me as I progress in my career.