Paul Gresser - ICT Student

Bio: Went to La Salle College in Viveash. Started off working in finance for a government department, now a software engineer and student.

What do you do?
I am currently studying full-time (BEng Software Engineering). I tutor part-time at University teaching basic programming to first year students and I'm involved with two private defence related projects.

What do you love about your work?
I get to solve complex problems and be creative. I love that my job is not about the clothes I wear (jeans and a t-shirt) or the number of hours I manage to "look like I'm working". It's about the quality of the things coming out of my mind.  I love that I'm exposed to some very clever and interesting people who know what they want out of life and I don't spend all my time stuck behind a desk.

What is the money like?
Even as an undergraduate I'm getting good money - it beats working at Woolies.

How did you get to where you are today?
I did a commerce degree, graduated with a major in Finance then landed a graduate position with the Department for Planning and Infrastructure. I was hungry for a more challenging role and soon realised I was more suited to Software Engineering than finance. So back to uni. I started a 12 month Graduate Diploma in Computing and after six months decided to change to a Bachelor of Science (Software Engineering).

What made you decide to work in ICT?
I was looking for creative freedom and a challenge. Working in ICT as a software developer gives me that. The industry challenges me intellectually and the working conditions are incredibly flexible.

Is the ICT industry what you expected?
I shared a house with friends working as software engineers, so I knew what I was getting myself into.

What do you find interesting about working in ICT?
Software is not only about computers! These days everything in the world is in some way related to software. From white-goods to music recording to spacecraft and about a zillion things in between. I'm not tied to one industry, through Software Engineering I can become involved in any industry I choose. I can constantly become involved in new problem domains, it's always new and interesting.

Where do you see your job in ICT taking you?
Anywhere I want. If I'm motivated and good at my job it could take me anywhere in the world, working in whatever domain I choose.

What advice would you give someone considering a career in ICT?
It's important to understand that different people and personalities are suited to different areas. Don't assume the IT stereotype is true. Get out and meet people who are working in the fields you are interested in. Approach firms directly for work experience opportunities.

Why would you encourage others to get into the ICT industry?
It's rewarding, the money is good and you really have a lot of autonomy.