We are edging closer to the end of Q2, with July just around the corner. So far it’s been another busy quarter for Firemind, as we continue to deliver a range of exciting cloud projects for our customers, as well as stepping into some amazing co-hosting opportunities with AWS.

Yesterday we welcomed our newest member to the Firemind family, James Staples. James is stepping into the Junior Data Scientist role, where he’ll expand on his previous experience, learning how to simplify data problems, incorporate Machine Learning algorithms and get hands on with AWS data services.

This morning we sat down with James, getting to know the newest member of our ever growing consultancy.

Hello and welcome James to the Firemind team! It’s great to have you with us. To our viewers, could you please tell us a little about yourself and your professional background?

I’m a newly graduated student from the University of Kent, studying Computer Science with a year in Data Analysis. I’ve studied a broad range of areas but hold particular interest in AI/ML, data analysis and web development.

How did you find out about us and what made you decide to apply for a role with Firemind?

I discovered Firemind after coming across the company page on LinkedIn, and through that I started talking to some of the team, who told me more about the company and job roles available.

Firemind stood out to me because of how well it aligned with my interests and course choices through university. Having picked up modules in Cloud Computing, AI/ML and Data Analytics, Firemind seemed the perfect fit. The cherry on top was how local the office is – I really wanted to stay in my hometown after graduating, and this role allowed me to do just that.

Which areas of our business interested you the most?

The AWS certification training was a main attractor for me. I believe that cloud computing is critical to evolving businesses and learning how to utilise cloud computing platforms is an essential skill. The office culture really stood out to me as well – everyone is incredibly close-knit and friendly.

What will be your main goals/objectives whilst working at Firemind?

I’m striving to learn as much as possible; be that within data science or in my proficiency with AWS. Transitioning from university to work life is a huge leap, and I want to accomplish that with the great team at Firemind.

What are some highlights of the job so far?

Definitely the office environment. Everyone I’ve spoken to has been so friendly, making my transition comfortable. The office itself is great as well – the drinks fridge and views over the town are personal favourites of mine.

Which aspects of the job are you most excited about?

I am very excited to be challenged by all kinds of projects, big or small. I think it will be a great learning curve and would also allow me to showcase my tech skills. Socialising and getting to know my co-workers is also a great plus!

What do you hope to achieve within your first 12 months here?

In terms of training, I’d love to have either completed or made progress into professional or speciality AWS certifications. I also hope to have dealt with multiple customers and be both confident and proficient in dealing with a project’s lifecycle.

Outside of work, what do you get up to? Tell us about yourself.

I’m a season ticket holder for Maidstone United, so I’m at the Gallagher Stadium most weekends (and sometimes Tuesdays). My dad took me to my first Maidstone game in 2012 and I’ve been hooked ever since. Outside of that, I often go bouldering at climbing gyms. I originally started going whilst studying in Canterbury and fortunately found another facility closer to home.

We’re growing from strength to strength, expanding our diverse and specialised team to enable us to work faster, smarter and have more fun along the way!

Visit our Careers page for further details about the Firemind culture.