The newest member of the Punchmark team is Garrett Simpson, who steps in to modernize and elevate the Premium Vendor program.
Garrett is the developer responsible for the Premium Vendor program at Punchmark. Despite being the youngest member of the team, his familiarity with many different codestacks is impressive. A self-described hobbyist, Garrett spends much of his free time learning different languages, playing guitar, and spending time with his lovely fiancée and three cats.
Michael Burpoe, Director of User Experience at Punchmark sat down with Garrett to get to know the new hire better.
Michael Burpoe: Hey Garrett! How are you doing this afternoon?
Garrett Simpson: Hey Michael! I'm doing really well.
MB: What is your role going to be at Punchmark?
GS: I'm going to be the vendor liaison! I'll be communicating back and forth with our vendors and ensuring that their data is properly handled for our clients to use.
MB: That's awesome. The vendor program is something I hope to reach new heights with. Have you already started making plans on how to grow the program?
GS: I have! I've been speaking with some of the people who have been here longer than me, and I have been trying to take their input and come up with ideas on how to make this program really shine. So far, I'm just trying to reach out to our current vendors and make sure everyone is aware of who I am and what I am here to do, though.
MB: Taking charge, I like it. Although this is your first job, you seem pretty familiar with development. What background do you have in dev?
GS: Well, I've been learning about computer systems in general for years. I was about 8 when I had my first experience programming. Started with LUA writing addons for World of Warcraft and progressed into more industry level, object-oriented languages such as C++ and Java. Ultimately, I have familiarity with front-end and back-end web development, mobile app development, and multiple other facets of development. Aside from that, though, I also have my associate's of applied science in cyber security!
MB: Very cool! It sounds like development is a big part of your life, what sort of hobbies do you maintain in addition to your position here.
GS: I consider myself a bit of a hobbyist. I spend a lot of my time learning different languages, playing guitar, grinding out some mythics on WoW with friends, and relaxing with my lovely fiance and three cats.
MB: I'm sure we have hundreds of clients that play WoW, so you will surely be a hit with them.
Thanks for your time, Garrett! Happy to have you working with us!
GS: Of course! Thanks Michael. I'm excited to be here.
Get to know the rest of the Punchmark team here.