We’re kicking off the New Year with our Meet the Team series and a relative newcomer - Data Engineer, Tadej Hajna.
I work as a Data Engineer, but given the nature of our work, I am known more as a geospatial (GIS) specialist. I handle much of the data pipeline: from discovery and ingestion to modeling, analysis, and visualization. The only area I generally steer clear of is data science, because I’d rather leave predicting the future to folks that are a bit brighter than me.
I’m currently most excited about a new tool that lets users quickly evaluate location based factors without the complexity of our other offerings. It’s simpler, more predictable, and perfect for anyone who needs quick insights without getting overwhelmed. I can’t wait to see how it’s received. I’m also working on two other major improvements: a brand-new way to visualize our spatial data using cutting edge web technology, and adding a lot more useful data to our US environment.
I was just excited by the opportunity to join an international start-up. My background has always been in spatial data, applying industry standard tools while tapping into my love for geography and spatial analysis. As it happened, I’d just wrapped up a project on locating optimal electric truck charging locations, when I came across this opening. It felt like a perfect match: working on the same kind of challenge, but on a larger scale, and with a company committed to becoming a global leader in this niche.
I find the work at Dodona both exciting and fulfilling. The entire company shines optimism and passion, and most importantly in my opinion, it offers everyone the freedom to find their own way of getting things done. I also want to highlight how great a workplace Dodona has been since I joined half a year ago. The people here are smart and professional but also kind and down to earth. Shout out to the office squad, they keep the atmosphere relaxed and fun, always making the commute worthwhile :)
To my fellow geographers thinking about moving into tech: it might look like a challenging path at first, but it really comes down to curiosity and enthusiasm. The way I see it, the world seems to prize well rounded skill sets more than laser focused expertise alone right now. Having a broad perspective can be a real advantage in today’s market.
Lately, most of my free time goes into building a house and I’m basically living on the construction site at this point :). Unlike some of my younger colleagues who seem to have endless hobbies like hiking, alpaca farming and base jumping, I’m a bit more low-key and perfectly fine doing nothing on a weekend.
I never made it as a track athlete, but I still enjoy sprinting up hills and occasionally lifting heavy weights. In terms of culture, I usually opt for electronic dance music festivals, where the energy runs high, rather than art galleries or classical concerts.
I’d like to pass the baton back to our UK teammates and nominate Alex Moffett. He’s our European Sales Manager, and he’s a super enthusiastic and upbeat person. Moff, the stage is yours.