In this episode of the In Query, we discuss software development, engineering, and leadership development. Ania Halliop is a technical senior leader with expertise in driving engineering and data strategy and organizational change. Recently she has been working as a senior Engineering Manager at Uber ATG R&D Engineering, leading teams for the productization of deep-learning algorithms for self-driving vehicles. Prior to that, she was a Senior Director of Engineering at FreshBooks where she led data engineering and infrastructure. A graduate of Queen’s University, Ania has been working in software for almost 20 years, first as a software developer and then as a technical leader. Throughout her career, Ania has made contributions to networking, security, and web development, and has helped develop new leaders, grow software development teams, and drive technical and organizational change at companies such as Siemens, Blackberry, and FreshBooks. Over the past 5 years, Ania has been involved in the Toronto tech scene to provide opportunities and mentorship to new speakers with the goal of encouraging more women to speak at technical events and conferences.

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Ania's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ania-halliop/

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Timestamps

0:00 - Intro & Background

University Degree 

6:24 - Which program did you end up in?

8:40 - What impact did your program have on your career?

11:43 - Where did you head after graduation?

Career

14:56 - What were some of the biggest struggles you have faced in your career?

18:25 - From software to management, what was your transition like?

22:31 - What is the biggest difference between a software developer and a manager?

24:38 - To get into a manager role, would you have to start as a software developer?

26:54 - On the software side, what are skills that would be required to be successful?

29:35 - How easy would it be to switch roles in the tech industry?

32:10 - How could you display your adaptability on a resume?

34:34 - As a student, how would you find which area you are more inclined to work in (frontend/backend)?

Students

37:05 - Do you have any advice for students that are looking to go into university?

38:24 - Do you have advice for students who are looking to find their first co-op position?

40:40 - What are some things a high school student can do from an early age to test out the tech industry? 

Day to Day as a Senior Developer

48:48 - What is the main difference between a junior and a senior developer, how do you transition?

50:48 - What is your day-to-day as a senior leader?

54:48 - Do you have any general advice for students who are looking to pursue a career in the tech industry?

56:27 - Do you have any advice for people who are looking for mentors?

57:30 - What would you say is the most rewarding part of your job?

59:31 - Outro & Ending Remarks