Meet Vesela, a Senior Data Engineer who loves tackling complex data challenges and finding smart solutions. Whether she’s optimizing databases, automating processes, or making sense of messy data, she’s always up for a challenge.
When she’s not deep in queries and migrations, you’ll find her unwinding with family, enjoying a spa getaway, or hiking in the mountains. Get to know Vesela and her journey in the world of data!
Professional Journey
What’s one project you’ve worked on that you’re really proud of?
A large-scale project with tight deadlines and plenty of challenges. The data team played a key role in both design and implementation, ensuring smooth system performance and tackling complex data migration. But what really made it special? The amazing team!
What’s the most interesting data challenge you’ve faced, and how did you tackle it?
This might not be the most interesting, but it is the most recent challenge I’ve faced – migrating Excel-based reports where tables had dynamic row counts and evolving formats. We automated the process by importing everything into a general database table, using configuration tables to define expected structures, and flagging unknown formats for manual review.
If you had to explain your job to a 5-year-old, how would you describe it?
I’d keep it simple and answer their questions as they come. Honestly, I use the same approach with adults outside of IT!
What’s your favorite tool for working with data, and why?
Oracle SQL Developer – it’s easy to use, has great features, and the “Database Diff” tool is very handy. Plus, exporting query results is much smoother than in other tools I’ve used.
What’s a common misconception people have about data engineering?
From non-IT folks:
- It’s just typing stuff into a computer.
- If you work for a bank, you can steal money. (You can’t.)
From IT folks:
- Data migration is just copying data from one database to another.
If you could automate one part of your job forever, what would it be?
Time tracking. No hesitation.
Learning & Growth
How do you stay up to date with the latest trends in data engineering?
I ask experienced colleagues, research interesting topics online, and listen to team presentations.
Personal Life & Interests
What’s your favorite way to unwind after a long day of crunching data?
Spending time with family and friends, hitting the spa, or hiking in the mountains.
If you weren’t a Data Engineer, what career would you have pursued?
Probably running a restaurant or a bakery.
What’s one fun fact about you that people might not expect?
The fun facts people don’t expect… are usually not for telling.
Blitz Round
