In today’s rapidly evolving IT industry, keeping up with the latest technologies and advancements is crucial for professional growth. As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented rate, the need for continuous education and skill mastery has become paramount. The concept of lifelong learning has gained significant importance, with IT professionals realizing that their success and career progression depend on their ability to adapt and learn continuously.

In this article, we will explore the challenges and strategies associated with lifelong learning in the IT industry and hear from Olena Ivina, our DA/DS/ML Engineer, about how she effectively balances work, study, and personal matters.

Olena is an experienced professional at Wamisoftware, specializing in Data Science and Machine Learning for over 2 years, and has more than 3 years of experience as a data analyst. Before working in data science, she was a business analyst and project manager. Olena’s first degree was in metrology, but her thirst for knowledge has now made her pursue a second degree.

The secret to Olena’s success? Effective time management and prioritization. Her story is a testament to the power of continuous learning, adapting, and seizing growth opportunities:

How do you manage to balance studying, work, and personal matters, and what time management approaches do you use?

Balancing professional commitments, education, and personal life comes down to consistency and habits.I typically spend about 16 additional hours for studding along with 40 working hours per week, and even if I have very little time, I make sure to tackle at least a part of my study tasks every day. The key is not allowing yourself to get into the habit of postponing your learning. Accumulated tasks can become time-consuming and disrupt the balance between work and life.

What knowledge from your studies do you apply at work, perhaps with a specific example?

The knowledge I gain during my studies is highly valuable in my day-to-day work. For instance, I’m currently working on a project related to time series data forecasting. Through my studies, I acquaint myself with new methodologies and approaches, which I later apply in my work. This process sparks new ideas and solutions that I incorporate into my projects at Wamisoftware.

In your opinion, what hinders technical professionals in education?

Technical professionals often progress by taking on more responsibilities and tackling more complex tasks. However, this can be a slow strategy for skill enhancement. After a demanding workday, one may naturally want to relax and spend time with family, a partner, or on hobbies. I believe that it’s the overload that hampers people from pursuing additional education. Before embarking on a learning journey, it’s crucial to streamline work processes to maintain a reasonable level of complexity.

Do you think a company should encourage professional development? How does Wamisoftwаre support your learning and professional growth?

Absolutely, I believe companies should actively encourage and facilitate their employees’ professional development. At Wamisoftwаre, they place significant emphasis on supporting our educational pursuits. They offer various opportunities, including training programs, conference participation, and internal knowledge-sharing sessions. Such support not only enhances our skills but also contributes to the overall growth of the company.

What resources do you use for your professional growth?

Besides formal educational institutions, I study materials from leading experts in the technical field. I also stay updated with industry news, research papers, and online courses as essential components of my professional growth strategy. One of my primary sources of inspiration is our very own Wami Data Science team lead, a prominent figure in the Data Science field. Learning from someone of their caliber not only motivates me but also provides valuable insights and guidance for my career development.

What main career development directions particularly interest you?

I’m interested in several career development directions. Firstly, I continue to be captivated by time series forecasting, seeing substantial potential for its applications. Additionally, I’m intrigued by research in solar energy and its sustainable impact on our world. Lastly, I’m exploring the exciting realm of computer vision development, which holds immense possibilities for various industries. These areas align with my passion for innovation and continuous learning, making them the primary direction of my career journey.

In the ever-evolving IT industry, where technological advancements occur at an astonishing pace, the importance of continuous education cannot be overstated. It’s the cornerstone that enables IT professionals to stay relevant and competitive in this dynamic field. Lifelong learning equips them with the tools to acquire new skills, keep abreast of the latest trends, and seamlessly adapt to the constantly shifting technological landscape.

At Wamisoftware, we take immense pride in having professionals like Olena on our team. Her unwavering commitment to learning, growth, and innovation embodies the spirit of our organization. We are genuinely delighted to have her as part of our family, as she not only elevates her career but also contributes significantly to the continued success and advancement of our company.

In conclusion, lifelong learning is not just a concept — it’s the lifeblood of the IT industry. It empowers individuals like Olena to expand their knowledge horizons, explore new frontiers, and play an indispensable role in shaping the future of technology. Here’s to Olena and all the dedicated IT professionals who embrace the path of continuous learning. Their journey is a testament to the limitless possibilities that lie ahead in this ever-evolving digital world.