September Spartan of the Month: Theo Gluckstein

What and where did you study at University? Or did you not study at University at all?

I studied Natural Sciences at the Open University. I specialised in biological sciences, studying a variety of modules including Neuroscience, Zoology and Astrobiology. Although I finished my degree a few years ago, I had to wait until early this year for my graduation, which just so happened to be held right next to the office, at the Barbican. 

Where did you train with Sparta Global and which course did you study?

I was part of the Data Engineering 22 cohort. We all trained remotely due to COVID.

When did you join and graduate?

I joined Sparta in April 2021 and graduated in July. 

How did you find out about Sparta Global and decide Sparta Global was the right path for you?

I would attribute this entirely down to Jack Flanagan, who was working as a Talent Coordinator at Sparta while I was looking for work. He called me after seeing my CV on a STEM career website and told me all about Sparta. He guided me through every stage of the application process and was always available to answer my many questions. This was completely different to my experience of applying to other jobs at the time.

How did you find your training at the Academy, and how did your training prepare you for work?

I found the Academy to be stimulating and challenging with a good balance between technical classes, group projects and interview preparation. In my role, I work in a Scrum framework and use SQL every day, which are two concepts that I was first introduced to at the Academy. There were many chances to present during the training, which I am also given the opportunity to do in my current position. Thank you to Paula, Danny and David for all of your guidance and support during the training. 

What is your current position? Tell us a little bit about your day-to-day role. What do you get stuck into?

I am working as an analyst developer at a multinational asset management company. I have been working on several initiatives to design and create management-level reports for delivery insight, flow metrics, and programme-level timeline planning. This involves using SQL to import the data and design and construct the underlying tables, stored procedures, functions and views. I then use Tableau to visualise and present the live data in interactive, dynamic dashboards. The reports are then presented and I iteratively add enhanced functionality, refinements and improvements in collaboration with the stakeholders. The reports are then used by multiple teams across the organisation. 

How have you found your first tech role?

There are multiple different aspects to my role that I enjoy. Building the backend of the reports in SQL requires developing a full understanding of the underlying data. It also involves continuous problem-solving and learning new ways to formulate solutions. I have a lot of autonomy and creative freedom when it comes to designing and building the frontend of the reports in Tableau. Being able to develop in this way has been particularly motivating and conducive to learning. The team I work in is incredibly supportive and knowledgeable and pushes me to learn as much as I can and continue to develop my understanding of the tools I use.

How did it feel to be named Spartan of the Month?

It is always gratifying to receive positive feedback and to be told that the work I am doing is bringing value to the organisation. I look forward to continuing to learn and contribute to the team.

Would you recommend Sparta to other graduates and if so – why?

I think going through Sparta is a good way to enter the tech industry without having any prior experience.