Engineering the Way to Her Dreams
Madalina's journey into engineering started in high school, where she discovered a passion for math. This led her to study Electronics, Telecommunications, and Information Technology at university, where she encountered programming for the first time. Despite her initial fascination with software development, she did not pursue a career in engineering immediately after graduation.
"I didn't continue with a job in software development because, at that time, I didn't have the maturity to understand how important it is to follow our dreams," she reflects.
A year into her first job as a telecommunications engineer, Madalina realized it wasn't her true calling. This realization prompted her to join HARMAN. Although her role was technical, she aspired to be a software developer, which was a challenging transition due to her lack of coding experience. It took three years of hard work and determination before she found a mentor in her current manager, Emma, who recognized her potential and allowed her to join the software development team.
Madalina's Role at HARMAN
Madalina is a Senior Software Engineer on the Intelligent Cockpit team within HARMAN's Automotive division. Over the past six years, she and her colleagues have been developing video solutions for high-profile clients like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Her work spans safety features such as reverse view cameras (RVC) and dashcams, as well as entertainment functionalities like recording videos and taking pictures using the car's external and internal cameras.
Her daily responsibilities include participating in team meetings to set priorities and solve potential blockers, developing C++ code-based on agreed software architecture, writing unit tests to ensure top-quality software, performing functional tests on hardware using specialized test benches, fixing bugs, and engaging in project-related discussions with customers and external suppliers.
Overcoming Challenges
Transitioning from a beginner to a senior developer in less than two years is a significant achievement that Madalina is particularly proud of. She now manages three projects involving feature development, project coordination, and direct customer interactions. "It was my dream to be where I am today, and for sure, I had many difficult moments when I felt that I would give up, but I always remembered my goal," Madalina shares. Persistence and dedication were crucial in this journey. Each failed attempt brought her one step closer to success, reinforcing her belief in her ability to learn quickly, perform well, and find efficient solutions.
Advice for Aspiring Engineers
Madalina advises young professionals to embrace mistakes and failures as part of the journey.
"If I were able to talk with my younger self, I would tell her to do the exact same steps she did because this exact moment in my life is the best I've ever had," she says. She deeply believes in following your dreams and taking proactive steps to achieve them, as no one else will do it for you. Confidence, determination, and hard work are essential, and while there are no shortcuts to success, patience will ensure that your efforts pay off. "Be more self-confident and trust that with determination and hard work, everything is possible; there is no shortcut to success, and hard work always pays off. Just be patient," she advises.
Life Beyond Work
Outside of work, Madalina is equally dedicated to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and strengthening her mind and body.
"I keep myself strong. Keeping fit, staying healthy, and making sure I'm always ready for action is my passion," she explains. She hits the gym five times a week, eats healthily, and tracks her calorie and protein intake. Madalina's persistence and goal-oriented spirit describe both her personal life and her work life.
M
adalina's story is a powerful reminder of believing in your path, no matter the challenges. At HARMAN, we celebrate her achievements and the potential within every person to reach their goals with patience, hard work, and dedication. She exemplifies the power of persistence and the importance of following one's dreams.
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