Hi, my name’s Lee Wicks and I’m a software engineer at RDT.
I’ve always had a passion for ICT, computing and new technologies, and was keen to learn coding. In 2012 I went to university to study computing and software engineering and I really enjoyed the coding element of the course, which made me realise that I wanted to be a software engineer.
After graduating I joined the Capita Graduate IT Consultancy, and through them got a work placement at Dominos Pizza in Milton Keynes. The work was varied and included developing their website and franchisee systems. They had free pizza in the office, which was a great perk, but not good for keeping healthy!
My girlfriend and I decided to get a house together. She is from Tonbridge, very close to RDT HQ, and I applied to join RDT and was really excited to be offered a job here. I’m glad I made the move as it has worked out brilliantly.
RDT is a fast-paced, fun and welcoming place to work. Every day offers something different, either a new challenge or something new to learn. Everyone here is willing to help, or be helped – it’s a very collaborative environment to work in.
I’ve worked on some interesting projects. I worked with Equator services, where we standardised the services so they were consistent. More recently I’ve been with the API team, working on a project to upgrade Landscape functionality. It’s quite a demanding project with tight deadlines. Although there is pressure and it can feel challenging, I find meeting the deadlines and delivering the software to our clients very rewarding.
There are good opportunities for progression here. For example the company is sponsoring me to become a Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD). I’m two-thirds of the way through the course and feel very happy to have been given the opportunity.
Earlier this year I attended an event at my old university. While I was there I was asked to give a presentation to the final year students. I hadn’t prepared anything but was quite happy to give a speech about my experiences. I think my work at RDT, and the regular stand-up meetings where we discuss our work, gave me the confidence to do this.
RDT is a fun, engaging place to work that offers fantastic opportunities, where I feel I am valued and being invested in.