Angelika’s career journey is a testament to adaptability, resilience, and a passion for learning. Starting her professional path in climate science, Angelika obtained both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Geology from the University of Innsbruck. Her research focused on hypogene speleogenesis—the formation of caves through deep groundwater—requiring analytical thinking and a methodical approach to complex systems.
When her father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Angelika returned to Carinthia, Austria, setting aside her PhD ambitions to help care for him. This pivotal life change prompted her to reassess her career goals and explore new possibilities. She chose to enroll in a Bachelor’s program in Geoinformatics at FH Carinthia, where she discovered a field that bridges geography and technology to address real-world challenges.
Through these experiences, Angelika’s journey evolved into an inspiring story of transformation, leading her to a successful career in software development and a professional home at Gofore, where she thrives in an environment that values individuality, fosters growth, and empowers women in IT.
A new beginning in Geoinformatics
During her Geoinformatics studies, Angelika acquired foundational knowledge in computer science, spatial algorithms, and graph theory. She worked on automated decision-making systems, including projects that evaluated environmental data to prioritize agricultural land for ecological benefits. This specialization further deepened her interest in programming as she developed algorithms for parallel and distributed computing to process large-scale, raster-based spatial multicriteria decision analysis problems.
Transitioning to software development
After earning her degree, Angelika began her career in software development. She initially worked as a .NET developer, focusing on desktop applications and algorithms, including scheduling maintenance systems for a railway company. Over time, she transitioned into full-stack development, contributing to diverse projects in industries such as solar energy and insurance. This varied experience allowed her to cultivate a broad skill set and a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within software development.
From first projects to professional growth: Angelika’s journey at Gofore
Angelika’s desire to work in a collaborative and supportive environment with modern values eventually led her to Gofore. “I was looking for a company with deep technical expertise that prioritizes collaboration, inclusivity, and personal growth,” she explains. Gofore’s diverse portfolio and its emphasis on people and open culture were a perfect fit.
Her first project at Gofore was closely tied to the merger of eMundo and Gofore, where she worked on adapting the eMundo homepage to align with Gofore’s branding. Alongside the rebranding, she also refactored and updated several aspects of the project to improve its maintainability. This allowed her to refine her skills in technologies like React, GraphQL, and Netlify Deployment.
Angelika’s next step was to work on external projects. She joined a customer-facing team working on a cloud-based solution for parking space management, where she served as a full-stack developer. Utilizing technologies such as Java Spring, Angular, TypeScript, and Liquibase, she tackled bug fixes, performed maintenance, and developed new features to elevate the solution to new heights.
Additionally, Angelika worked on advanced access control systems for venues, contributing to both system maintenance and feature development. For her, these projects exemplify Gofore’s blend of technical excellence and a positive work environment.
“Gofore encourages learning and growth, making it an ideal place to develop professionally,” Angelika shares. “The company combines cutting-edge technology with a collaborative culture that supports your journey every step of the way.”
How Gofore’s culture empowers women in IT
Angelika is candid about the unique challenges women face in the IT industry, particularly as someone who transitioned into tech after a career change. “It’s often the small things that make you question your place—whether it’s feeling like you have to prove yourself more or doubting if you’re suited for this field,” she reflects. “The combination of being a woman and coming from a different background can sometimes amplify imposter syndrome.”
At Gofore, however, Angelika found a culture that transformed her experience. “Here, I feel seen because I can talk openly about my doubts and fears without judgment,” she shares. “The company not only acknowledges the unique challenges women face in IT but also actively supports individual growth. I feel empowered to develop my skills without fear or hesitation.”
This empowerment is deeply rooted in Gofore’s open and inclusive work culture. Angelika highlights how the company’s approach to failure is a key part of its supportive environment. “It’s okay to fail—it’s seen as normal. Colleagues come together to help and motivate you, which makes all the difference,” she explains. She also appreciates Gofore’s dedication to personal development through workshops and opportunities to enhance one’s knowledge.
“Gofore is very modern in technical means, but most importantly, in the way people interact,” Angelika adds. “The flat hierarchy and genuine DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) approach make you feel truly valued as an individual. Despite being a large company, Gofore remains incredibly focused on the individual and their journey.”
This supportive environment has helped Angelika let go of doubts and stereotypes, making it easier to overcome imposter syndrome and focus on her potential. By fostering a culture of growth and inclusivity, Gofore is not only shaping the future of IT but also empowering individuals like Angelika to excel and inspire others along the way.
A balanced and supportive environment
Angelika’s journey underscores the value of adaptability and lifelong learning. At Gofore, she has found a workplace that equips her with the tools and support needed to grow both professionally and personally. “Gofore creates an environment where people can focus on their strengths while developing new skills, making it a fantastic place to work,” she concludes.
