Phil
Software Developer Consultant, Evanston Office
Education
University of Wisconsin – Madison
B.S. in Computer Engineering and Computer Science
Activities involved in at university
I was a member of IEEE and worked as a research assistant with mechanical engineering grad students conducting research on engine emissions.
Hometown
Green Bay, WI
ZS Career Path
Software Developer Associate ,2003
Software Developer Associate Consultant, 2005
Software Developer Consultant, 2007
Favorite restaurant in Evanston
Merle’s (Barbecue)
Favorite community activity
“I am a tutor for Family Matters Chicago”
Specialties
MAPS and SalesAdvance
On joining ZS
“I graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Madison with majors in Computer Engineering and Computer Science. I started at ZS in July 2003.”
On life outside work
“I like to go out running or in-line skating on the lakefront trail in Evanston during the week. At home, I like to read books (both technical and non), watch movies, and play video games. On weekends I often head into the city to go out with friends or head north to Wisconsin during the winter to go snowboarding.”
On working at ZS
What is something you really like about working for ZS?
“One thing I’ve really enjoyed about working with ZS is the amount of interaction I have with my co-workers on a day-to-day basis. Not only do I talk frequently with the other software developers, I also often speak directly to end users and testers.”
What most surprised you when you started at ZS?
“The speed at which I felt integrated into the SD team. After two weeks of training I was placed onto a project team fairly quickly and was doing real work almost immediately.”
What is your interaction with the rest of the company?
“I talk to people from other tracks on a daily basis. These interactions come at all stages of a project, from when I am trying to design a new feature and need their input to when a business user is first learning how they can apply my tool to their project. Business users also help with the testing of many of my projects and can provide a unique perspective on the way a program operates.”
On working in Evanston
“I enjoy the fact that Evanston is very connected with Chicago in terms of transportation and proximity, yet retains a smaller area feel in it’s downtown. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops around the area to go to during lunch as well.”
On commuting to work
“I live in the southern part of Evanston. I’ve walked, taken the “L”, taken the bus, driven, in-line skated, and biked to work. I prefer biking as long as the weather is friendly, as I find it’s faster than all other modes of transportation.”
On getting project help
“When I need just basic code logic help or quick ideals I usually just chat with the developers next to me. Whenever I have problems with something more specific to my project I go and talk to my manager or the business users. Everyone is always very open to helping out and oftentimes a request for help will turn into a conversation about the best way to do something.”