Meet the team: Nick🚀

Meet Nick

A quantum physicist that transitioned into the data-realm. Nick is a born problem solver that loves to find simple solutions to complex puzzles. He does this in the most pragmatic way possible. When designing a solution, Nick will often repeat the famous Kent Beck quote: “Make it work, make it right, make it fast!”.

You can find Nick at his happiest when he is using his know-how to create added value. With knowledge as a personal driver, he is a natural coach and quick learner. This is also reflected in his spare time where Nick is always learning something new or teaching others about his passions.

We asked Nick some thoughtful questions.

Nick, how did you discover your passion for data?

I have always followed my passion for puzzles and learning. This already started in high school where I deliberately chose an education in sciences and mathematics. This eventually culminated in a PhD in theoretical quantum physics. Unfortunately, "Professional problem solver" is no real job title (but it would be cool if it was right?). So, I asked myself where my broad interest field and "solution craftmanship" would be a true asset. I quickly stumbled upon the job market in data. I started out as a data scientist, but I quickly realized that I was building solutions on quicksand. Feeling the need for more robust data platforms, I transitioned into data engineering and DevOps. From this role I can build solid and reliable foundations for all data professionals to work on. What I really like about data is that no two days or projects are the same! I can build an IoT solution one day and train ML models the next one.

Why specifically did you choose Plainsight?

It did not feel like a choice, but something that was bound to happen. If you compare my personal story to the Plainsight values, you can almost spot the one-on-one match. The "be FAIR and knowledgeable" highly resonates with my personal values. Being part of this young and dynamic team is inspiring and energizing. I cannot go to the offices without a big smile on my face and my “Mario kart mood” turned on. What I really like about the team is that they make the data world a better place in an open-source way. No infinite sales discussions, if you need a bugfix, just come and fetch the latest version from our shared public Git repository. At Plainsight we are just your humble guides on your data journey, but the customer is still in control.

How did you experience your first weeks?

It was a pleasure to get started amongst this bunch of rocket-fueled enablers. From day 0 I got to make an impact on their way of working. No excuses or false justifications for the status quo, or the typical "let's discuss this issue at some later point (that never comes)". They do not avoid the hard work or discussions that a fast-paced environment brings. To me it was immediately clear that the learning mindset is a central value and philosophy. If you spark an idea, they will bring the gasoline and transform it into a fully lit fire. You get to take ownership of your ideas, while being fully supported by your co-workers. Every team member also has a natural curiosity. This is great when you are working on a project since you will always find someone to help or challenge you when in doubt.

What’s your favorite hobby or activity outside of work?

When I am not behind my computer, you will often find me rocking the guitar, exploring a canyon or teaching canyoning techniques to beginners. I have been playing the guitar for 7 years already. I wanted to start for a long time but always had an excuse for not having time to do it. At some point I realized that time does not wait for you, the next day I enrolled at the music school. Canyoning started as a way to "face my fear of heights" 17 years ago (Yeesh! Now I am starting to feel old.). Exploring a canyon was way too much fun! After a few guided trips I decided to learn the techniques via CanyonTeam Vlaanderen. After a few years I also became a canyoning instructor and board member there. I mostly enjoy descending a simple canyon with some friends. Although I also enjoy the top-level canyons for the technical puzzles that they can bring.