Izzy Mackinnon: Software Engineering Lead/Solution Architect

Job title:

Software Engineering Lead/Solution Architect at CGI

Location:

Bristol

What inspired you to go into engineering?

I loved maths and physics at school and I wanted a career where I could solve exciting problems and make a difference. I liked the idea of a job where I could combine creativity and technical skills.

What do you love about your job?

The team aspect! Software engineers work together in a team to solve complex problems. As a Software Engineering Lead and Architect, I help my team tackle these challenges and design solutions for them to build. This means I get to work with lots of different people in different roles, learning from them and helping them succeed.

How did you get your job?

I studied Mechanical Engineering at university, and really enjoyed the programming aspects. After university, I applied for a Software Engineering role with limited experience, and my company took a chance on my potential. I naturally enjoyed leadership roles, so have progressed into taking on more responsibility.

What advice would you give to a young person looking to start a career in your industry?

Put yourself in situations that make you slightly nervous, it helps you grow. It is OK not to know everything, there is so much to learn that nobody ever does!

What do you think will be the most exciting developments in your industry over the next 5-10 years?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is already helping people do things faster and more efficiently, but we're only at the beginning of what's possible. AI won't replace us, but it might change how Software Engineering teams work, helping us be more creative, productive, and innovative.