Tell us a bit about yourself

I'm Thapelo but anyone who knows me calls me TP and I'm a Software Engineer.

Where are you based?

I'm currently based in Midrand, Johannesburg.

Can you unpack your path from electrical to software engineering?

The journey was short but I guess I kinda always knew. As an Electrical Engineer, I would focus quite a bit on the Software-related aspects like programming microchips, desktop studies, which included substation simulations etc.

The switch came when I completed my studies and I realised my love for programming the electrical components outweighed my love of plugging them in.

I still enjoy connecting some circuit boards now and then. But I get more joy in knowing a little bit of code can make a big difference

How did you find your way to Cue?

After working for some time in the Finance sector, I became interested in learning more about the technology behind chatbots and these automated/scheduled messages I received every month. That's when a friend let me know Cue builds these services and had the balance between creativity and growth I was looking for.

What do you do outside of work?

I play quite a bit pool, some online gaming when the mood strikes and obviously quality time with the family which is anything from a hike, a trip to the farmer's market or some mini projects around the house. Building is fun!

Any crew highlights yet?

Knowing that there's always more to learn, more solutions to find and just the all-round positive colleagues that make it easy to be part of the team. The year-end party last year was good fun too!

Favourite part of the year-end party in Cape Town?

Definitely the Escape Room. It was a great and exciting way of learning more about the way my colleagues tackle problems and finding out you can actually lock yourself in a vault if you're not careful. Which was not actually part of the Escape Room

How has moving a lot as a kid influenced your approach to adapting to new or ever-changing situations?

I think it helped me to always try stayed grounded regardless of where I am or where I go. That those close to me are my true anchors (and sails)... That home really is the people and not the place.

As an avid anime aficionado, which character would you bring to life to join the Cue crew?

Satoru Gojo hands down. He can mix colours blind folded and is super reliable when it matters.

What do you love most about being a Software Engineer?

The problem solving and how every new task or problem is an opportunity to learn something new.

What does a typical work day look like for Thapelo?

Check emails, tend to anything outstanding, organise the day's tasks and start coding.

If and when the need arises, code reviews and support. But then its back to more coding and problem solving.

I think most of the "coding" time is taken by troubleshooting and debugging though. Some days are slower and need more technical discussions and project planning. No day is the same.

What challenges do you face in your role?

Context switching and meetings. Developers are not big fans of meetings but they're integral to the success of any well planned project.

How do you deal with that?

It's honestly just a matter of understanding that there will be days where meetings > development. That's also why its important to block out some focus time to avoid context switching and be able to get some uninterrupted work.

What advice would you give anyone looking to transition into software engineering?

One of the most frustrating parts of Software Engineering is the troubleshooting. It can be as quick as 5 minutes or a lengthy 2 day task with minimal sleep depending on the situation. So learn to be okay with not finding the answers right away. Patience and persistence is key.

What is it like working between product and operations?

It has been a balancing act. The focus between product and Operations may not always align because one is focused on Innovation and features while the other focuses on stability and performance. One needs excellent communication and negotiation skills to keep both sides happy while driving the project forward

If you could automate one aspect of your daily life, what would it be and why?

I think it would be making lunch/dinner or at least having pre-made recipes based on whatever ingredients are available.

I think it takes quite a lot of mental energy to think up what to eat especially after a long day of work and take outs aren't as healthy as advertised.

Describe the Cue culture in three words

Innovative, Customer-centric, Compassionate