Code, Curiosity, and Career Moves — Meet Gabe VanSolkema

Q: Can you tell us about your journey at Configura — how did you start, and what roles have you grown into over the years? 

Gabe: I started as an intern in 2016 and transitioned to working full-time in 2018. I joined the Customer Delivery team in Grand Rapids, where we primarily build CET extensions for CI and MH manufacturers. I have also been a Project Manager in CD and a developer on Team Radical (R&D). I am currently in a Lead Developer role, working with customers to build their software solution. 

Configurans representing Configura at a trade show

Q: How has Configura supported your professional growth and learning along the way? 

Gabe: It is often said that nobody ever wants to look at the code they wrote when they first started, which couldn’t be more true. I have been surrounded by talented developers, many of whom have been with Configura since before I started, and I have grown a lot as a programmer. I have also participated in tradeshows, conferences, sales workshops and industry tours which have helped shape my perspective on how software provides value to businesses and people.  

Q: What opportunities have you had to learn new skills or take on new challenges during your time here? 

Gabe: Each project I work on presents unique challenges and offers great learning opportunities. Everyone jokes that programming is tough when you can’t solve your problem but so rewarding when you reach a solution. Everyday can be kind of like that, which is fun for me. My time as a developer in R&D helped me consider new programming concepts and see things from a different technical perspective. My time as a project manager taught me more about working with customers on their objectives, budget, and timeline which helped me understand software from a business perspective. 

The team after Promat

Q: You've been with Configura for around 9 years — what has made you want to stay? 

Gabe: I am surrounded by passionate developers who genuinely enjoy solving problems and building software. Our software provides meaningful value to thousands of users. We also still have room to innovate and achieve new goals, which is exciting.  

Q: How would you describe the culture at Configura, and how has that impacted your experience? 

Gabe: Configura has a very healthy culture that promotes a good work-life balance. We have a lot of fun in the Grand Rapids office and kickoff with the Cincinnati office is always a great time. I am friends with a lot of my coworkers (shoutout to the GR Board Game Club). 

Configurans enjoying some time together after work

Q: Working in a global company like Configura, how has the international environment influenced your work or perspective?