Six years ago, I never thought my part-time software development job at Webmail.us would lead me to where I am today. Through an acquisition by Rackspace. Through an IPO. Through growth from 14 employees to 105 in Blacksburg alone (not to mention the other Rackspace locations).
As a junior in Computer Science at Virginia Tech, I needed a job to help me get through school but I also wanted one that was applicable to my major. One day I saw a job post for Webmail.us, a local email hosting company, on one of the CS newsletters. A few days later I was hacking away with a small but passionate group of individuals.
I was a Webmailer, now I am a Racker. The two companies shared many common traits, so it was a smooth transition. We both embodied Fanatical Support, had great people, and a culture for learning to name a few. Looking back however, one thing stands out to me as the reason I love Rackspace, the opportunities.
First, I have had the opportunity to learn a ton. As many software developers will tell you, college prepares you to learn but “on-the-job” is where the real learning begins. From languages and technologies like Java, PHP, C#, Javascript, HTML, CSS, etc… to best practices like agile software development, design patterns, continuous integration, test automation, and much more.
I have had the opportunity to work on some great products used by millions (yes, it’s crazy to think that we do have millions of users). I have worked on our Webmail shared calendaring system as well as our initial Exchange product offering. Most recently, my teams have built the latest version of the Apps Control Panel and all the many features that go with it.
Lastly, Rackspace has invested greatly in my own personal development. Through a great performance review system, strengths management, and other training programs, Rackspace has helped me grow from an individual contributor to a development manager, both of which have been very rewarding in different ways.
To sum it all up, I have had and continue to have great opportunities at Rackspace. That’s why I am a Racker.
Twitter: @brianhartsock
Blog: http://blog.brianhartsock.com
