In spotlight: Raav's dual role as .Net and AI Developer

How does such a dual role at Triple work exactly?

"A dual role at Triple is not uncommon among colleagues. I was hired as an AI developer about five years ago. In this role, we look at ongoing projects for clients, the information they have, and how we can use this data to add value to their services.

I am working full-time with the Backend Team on a project for a large international client. The unique thing about this project is that it is entirely in Python, a programming language that I frequently use as an AI developer. This project will end in August, after which I will resume my dual role in other projects."

What do you enjoy most about your work?

"Thanks to this dual role and the diversity of Triple as an agency, I have a lot of variety in my work. Projects usually last up to a year, so I am constantly exposed to new people, organizations, and architecture. I also enjoy programming because it's like solving a challenging puzzle. I often encounter new challenges for which I still need an answer, and I have to solve them. It may not be the most original answer for a developer, but it's true.

My favourite project is a website for a large international client. With this project, we had the freedom to set up the entire architecture without conforming to an existing website structure, which often happens. We had the technical freedom to determine the backend entirely according to our own insights. Additionally, this was my first project with Contentful, which we combined with .Net Core, a technology still considered new at the time. Moreover, I had direct contact with all the disciplines within the project, such as design and content.

Furthermore, Triple is a great employer because they organize many extra activities outside of work. I participate in all the sports activities like running, padel, and winter sports. The Tropical Tuesdays and Funky Fridays are also fun to attend. I still have time and space to conduct workshops at InHolland University."

You also teach at InHolland?

"I studied Computer Science at InHolland Haarlem, and back then, I received guest lectures on Azure DevOps from someone who still works at Triple. Funny enough, I have taken over that role from him over the past few years. In addition to workshops and guest lectures on Azure and Azure DevOps, I also started giving workshops on Natural Language Processing this year, which is more closely related to my current role.

I have set up these NLP workshops and introduced them at InHolland this year. I must admit I underestimated how much work this would be, but fortunately, Triple supports this, so I can prepare and conduct the lessons during working hours." 

How do you learn a new programming language?

"At Triple, I work with Python and C# .Net. I learned both languages during my studies. The advantage of both languages is that they are closely related, making them more accessible. I start by looking at tutorials and recreating basic concepts when I learn a new language. Then, I proceed to build my own projects using that language.

Despite my busy schedule, I also attend Meetups. It helps build your network, especially at the beginning of your career, but even if you are already in the right place, Meetups are good to visit. During such Meetups, you learn things beyond your own tasks and employer. How do other organizations solve specific problems, what architectures do they work with, and why? I also draw much inspiration from these for my hobby projects."