Kevin Witherow is a Business Intelligence Specialist at Ironclad Technology Services. He works on the Business Process Automation (BPA) team along with fellow programmers and friends John Fuller and Marlon Guinto. They are currently in the process of migrating customer solutions from an older technology stack to a more modern, open-source technology stack. In addition to his role on the BPA team, he also supports corporate back-office functions with automation, web management, business process management, and business intelligence.
How did you get started in Software Development?
I became interested in software development as a career path during high school. Much of my time back then was spent playing video games with friends after school. I was always curious how these games were created. During my high school junior year, I took a Computer Science course and learned programming fundamentals. Although we only created simple programs and games, I fell in love with creating something that others found useful and meaningful. After taking that class, I knew I wanted to pursue a software development related career path.
I am an Old Dominion University (ODU) alumnus, class of 2021. I majored in Computer Science and minored in Cybersecurity. I chose ODU because my older sister had a wonderful experience with ODU’s Computer Engineering program, and I knew I wanted to stay in the Tidewater area to stay close to family. That made ODU the perfect choice for me.
How did you get started at Ironclad?
I joined Ironclad as a Corporate Programmer Intern in 2019 during my junior year at ODU. With the guidance of my previous manager, Kitt Parker, I garnered experience with a variety of different technologies, best practices, frameworks, and methodologies that support our business processes here at Ironclad. The internship was an exciting and enriching experience that allowed me to tackle real problems within the company, work closely with internal customers, and learn at a sustainable pace.
What excites you most about your new role?
Working on a team with very smart and motivated people! I have already had the privilege of working on complex problems as a part of the BPA team. I am excited to be migrating older technology to a new stack and solving complex problems for customers.
How did you approach taking the next step in your career?
Having an open mind to change and conveying where I wanted to be in my career. My manager, John Fuller, has helped me transition and expand in my career from supporting corporate internal-facing projects only to working with government customers and projects.
Any advice for others who are looking to grow with the company?
Communicate your career goals with your manager and leadership. There is so much opportunity at Ironclad. If there is something you would like to move into or pursue, Ironclad likely has an option for it.
One of the best things about working at Ironclad is the commitment to work/life balance. What’s your favorite way to unwind after a busy day or week?
I usually unwind by hanging out with friends and family, catching up (binge-watching) shows, and going to the gym. I also love playing the piano and sometimes jamming out is the best way for me to decompress after a long day at work.
What’s been your favorite part of working at Ironclad?
Undoubtedly, my favorite part over the past two years has been the people that I get to work with. Everyone I have worked with has been super nice and I have always felt appreciated. Ironclad has always given me a sense of investment and community.
