This week, Rose went on the record with Paul Petty a senior software engineer who works for Brightspot, formerly Perfect Sense. Paul has worked on a number of projects, including Coca-Cola Journey, Food.com, and most recently, Univision. In addition to being a top-tier developer, Paul has also been recognized as one of Business Insider's Sexiest Developers Alive. During their conversation, Paul and Rose broke down the benefits of Brightspot, where to dine at the Reston Town Center, and who would play him in the soon to be Oscar-nominated Paul Petty Story.
How long have you been working for Brightspot?
I've been at Brightspot for a little over four years.
Where did you work prior to Brightspot?
I spent 11 years at America Online, then made a few pit stops at a marketing company, a small startup, a government contractor, the Library of Congress; and finally here at Brightspot.
Describe a unique challenge or project you have worked on at Brightspot?
I think my favorite challenge was working on Coca-Cola Journey, which was the first fully responsive and adaptive web experience we did as a company.
How do you think Brightspot best benefits our clients?
Brightspot is extremely flexible; customers can expect us to augment or modify whatever their needs might be to achieve all of their objectives.
What inspired you to become a Software Engineer?
My father is my inspiration. He was an engineer and, while growing up, I was always fascinated watching him solve problems. Whether it had to do with something around the house or for his work, he made the process fun.
What piece of advice would you give a recent graduate starting a career in software engineering?
I would encourage recent graduates to continue to grow as people. It is so important to find the topics, environments, or situations that made you want to learn and continue to expand what you already know with the goal learning everyday.
What is your favorite part about working at Brightspot?
This one is easy! My favorite thing about Brightspot is the people, both our clients and my co-workers. It's great to be surrounded by such smart and thoughtful people.
Where is your favorite place to eat lunch at the Reston Town Center?
World of Beer. Their brats rock!
If a movie was produced about your life, who would play you, and why?
Another easy question! Tom Cruise, because we're practically twins.
If you could have any super power, which would you like to have?
I want the super power from the show Heroes, that let's you take everyone else's super powers.
