Briana Augenreich: If You Love What You Do, Go For It
Briana Augenreich is a Senior Software Engineer at Capital One, and current Director of WWCode Richmond, that helped found the Network and grow it to over 600 members in less than a year. An avid problem solver that enjoys working with teams to overcome unique challenges, she is also an advocate for inclusion and diversity in tech that engages with the media to raise awareness and keep the community informed.
In this interview, Briana talks about her professional path, the inspiration that led her to tech, and her role at Capital One, and then offers some advice for those looking to pursue a similar career trajectory.
Can you tell us about your current position and a little bit about the work you do at Capital One?
Briana: Currently I work as full stack software engineer on Capital One's core innovation team. We are reimagining and developing an in-house solution for a major enterprise business function in the cloud. On my team, I wear a variety of hats including architect, designer, pipeline automater, API developer and tester. Every day there's a new piece of the puzzle to solve and I get to collaborate with an amazing team to bring our application to life.
What is your favorite thing about your job?
Briana: Solving problems. I love having a new challenge and problem to tackle each day, and new experiences to learn from and technologies to explore.
How did you choose this career path?
Briana: Throughout my high school career, I enjoyed science and when I took calculus my senior year, I fell in love with math. My interests and a few pokes from my AP physics teacher led me to pursue engineering at Virginia Tech. I was introduced to a simple programming tool in my "Intro to Engineering" course and decided to take "Intro to Computing." I instantly fell in love with the field. I loved being able to write code and have it produce something runnable on my computer.
What advice would you give to someone looking to follow in your footsteps?
Briana: If you have a passion for technology, or even a slight interest, try it out! There are so many online forums to get your feet wet (i.e. Hackerrank, Codefights and Codewars), and if you love what you do GO FOR IT! Too many people second guess themselves. They think they aren't smart enough, aren't nerdy enough, or won't fit in. I did. I wasn’t sure I would be able to succeed in a technology career. I didn't want to be a loner heads-down at her desk with people I couldn't relate to. I was scared. But I'm sure glad I tried. I found a rewarding and flexible career that allows me to create new things with some pretty smart and awesome people every day.
What do you feel is the importance of WWCode?
Briana: Women Who Code is creating a much-needed community. A space where women can come and feel inspired by each other. We're creating a sense of belonging in an industry where quite frankly as a woman you may not feel you fit in. We create enthusiasm and support for woman to continue to pave the way in this industry.