As senior software developer at Pearl Technology, BJ Walters designs, tests, and implements new web applications for clients. He serves as part of our IT Solutions team and works in Application Development.
How He Serves
BJ has worked with Pearl Technology headquarters in Peoria Heights for about 13 years. He also serves as part of the Managed Services team.
“Since 2017, I have worked almost 100% of the time with Pearl Insurance. Even when we were all part of Pearl Companies, Pearl Insurance was considered a client.”
So, what’s a typical day like for a developer?
“My day usually starts with a status meeting to discuss any issues the team faces,” BJ explained. “Most of the time is then spent developing new features for Synergy, which is a comprehensive enterprise application that helps fulfill the day-to-day business needs of Pearl Insurance. Or we spend time fixing any issues that might arise with the application. If there’s any downtime, I stay current by going through Pluralsight or Udemy courses. I also meet separately with Pearl Insurance and Pearl Tech supervisors each month to check in and discuss how things have been going and anything I might need for my work.”
As part of his position, BJ also updates existing applications, ensures all projects are completed on time and according to company specifications, writes advanced programming code, and manages project timelines/tasks. He’s quick to add that he only knows a subset of the technologies Pearl Tech provides (HTML5, JavaScript, C#, SQL Server, MVC, CSS3, JQuery).
What His Experience Means
Prior to joining the team at Pearl Tech, BJ was a software developer for a company in the private sector, where he served as the company’s webmaster. He also developed DNN modules for the company intranet and worked on a small development team for contracts the company had won.
A Microsoft Certified Solution Developer (MCSD) for Web Applications, BJ says his experience allows him to get involved in new or existing projects and “hit the ground running.” He has a good understanding of what clients need, which leads to better scoped projects that save clients time and money.
“During my time at Pearl Technology, I have been able to earn several Microsoft certifications. I have also worked in several different positions—with external client work, staff augmentation, and interviewing potential candidates.”
BJ also meets with clients directly as needed. Though they start with an account exec first, he is asked to get involved when a need is assessed. “I’ll meet with the client to discuss their requirements and pain points. Then, I’ll provide the scope of the work and estimates for what’s needed. I have also worked at several different client offices when needed.”
What Sustains Him
BJ says that work culture is important. “Little things do make a difference… a thank you, a card for your birthday or Christmas, etc. It’s nice to know you’re a part of things.” In fact, he says that when he interviewed for the job, he got a “good culture vibe,” and he thought he’d fit in nicely.
An Illinois resident, BJ has two children—a 14-year-old son and a 10-year-old daughter. He also has a cat named “Nutmeg” they adopted this past Christmas.
BJ loves how Pearl Tech allows great work-life balance. “Right now, I’m working from home, and it enables me to start my day earlier so I can go to my kids’ events and pick them up after school.”
In his free time, BJ loves playing soft pitch softball, training on his Tonal, and watching sports.
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