Caroline Hagan Director, Blueocto
Did you always envisage a career in the world of Technology?
From a young age I had an interest in Tech and Computers, no one else was “techy” in my family, it was just there, so I delved into books from the library and began learning how to build computers and eventually dabbling in web design whilst I was in High School.
Later I studied Graphic Design at Newcastle College, and Design, Multimedia and Graphics at University of Sunderland. There wasn’t any “Web design” courses back then, so I was completely self-taught! I can’t honestly imagine doing anything else, it’s such a diverse and creative sector.
What attracted you to your current role?
I decided to work for myself prior to having my daughter – the tech industry wasn’t geared up for part-time Developers or new mothers, so, having had stints of freelancing between employment in my younger days as a Web Developer, I felt I would go whole-hogg and full-time run my own business.
It’ll be our agency birthday in March for Blueocto, we will be nine years old.
What tips would you give to someone looking to work in the industry?
Having the right drive and passion trumps what stack or cutting edge platform you are working in right now. Almost everything can be taught, so having a positive attitude and bringing your unique personality to the team is what I’d be looking for.
If you come into tech thinking you’ll be the next biggest influencer or make lots of money, you still have lots to learn! There is so much resource you can learn from, so start reading and absorbing and you’ll become a much better, well-rounded contributor to the industry as a whole.
Tell us the most exciting thing you’re currently working on?
We are currently developing a new Portal for Darlington College, which will vastly improve the application and enrolment process, both for the staff and students.
Looking forward to phasing this online in the coming months.
We are also creating a fresh new look for a london-based retailer, which will incorporate their wishlist, improve the user experience and speed up the website vastly compared to their existing online presence.
Tell us about your team.
We are a small but perfectly formed team – Senior backend developer Daniel, who is the expert in PHP and creating bespoke functionality and getting software to talk to each other. Junior developer Ben is progressing through his Apprenticeship at a high level and has come on leaps and bounds, already contributing considerably to the workload, and myself – I’d consider myself a Senior Frontend Developer, with experience in Design and Digital Marketing, so we compliment each other quite nicely.
What’s your fondest memory of a career in the industry?
Most of my fond memories are simply the great teams I’ve worked with and the banter you have everyday, which makes coming to work so much fun.
In particular, travelling to London to spend 3 days at Google’s Academy stands out – it was intensive training on Web Apps and we had to split into teams for a hackathon and we came first, so that was an excited experience.
What are your remaining career aspirations?
I’d love to continue to grow Blueocto organically, expanding the team so we can offer a more robust service. I do envisage taking a less of a “hands on” approach and I’d love to delve into some other interests such as mentoring in local schools or colleges.
What piece of technology would you be lost without?
Probably my iPhone, typical Apple fan girl that it syncs with everything. Having my calendar on hand is probably the most useful app I use!
Who are your heroes and mentors?
Nicole Sullivan was an inspiration to me, as a woman in tech she effectively helped Facebook optimise what they had originally built to make it faster and more manageable – this is a huge part of what we do at Blueocto.
Lots of fellow business owners, who show up everyday and share their craft is a massive inspiration to keep pushing on.
When not working, how do you like to relax?
When not at work I’m often found looking after my eight year old daughter who loves playing video games, so showing her some classics is a must! We love to venture out, make crafts and travel, too.