For our first highlight series, meet Erika, one of our mobile engineers based in Ohio! 🙌
Why did you join Treecard?
I want my code to be used for the greater good. Treecard is a solution-orientated company focused on positive impact: to reverse climate change by planting trees with everyday user actions. I knew I needed to be part of Treecard’s mission. I have worked for various ecommerce and marketing agencies, but found my day-to-day lacked a bigger purpose my heart craved for. Contributing to reforesting the planet with my code gets me excited to wake up every day and open up my editor. I am excited to be a part of a global solution with my coworkers who are also passionate about the mission.
Describe your role and what a typical day looks like for you:
Daily, the engineering team gets together on a video call, and we update one another on what we are working on. Then, I’ll work on a ticket — coding spec’d out functionality and pixel-perfect UI. From sprint planning to product kick-offs, the engineering team is heavily invested in decision-making with product and design.
It’s not always work! Treecard values and upholds our remote culture to a T. We have various casual team and 1-1 meetings during the week. It’s a great way to get to know others and stay connected.
What's your favorite thing about working at Treecard?
Besides the impact we are making for a better world, I love Treecard’s culture and my coworkers. Everyone wants to see each other succeed and win. Our talented engineering team mentors, teaches and knowledge-shares with respect and kindness. Prior to Treecard, I had only worked in web. I transitioned to mobile development when I joined Treecard. Having a team that believes in me is critical in my growth and is something I am grateful for.
What has been the most rewarding/favorite project you have completed so far?
Our rewards program! This was one of the first major features I worked on when I joined Treecard. The design, user-driven testing, and functionality sings to my soul. Our rewards program is specifically branded to Treecard. By creating our rewards system in-house, we have complete control over which organizations we support. In addition, it was a joy to code it with the team.
Do you have any advice for anyone who wants to work in your field?
Keep building and learning. Get your foot in the door and pursue companies and projects that bring life to your soul. Apply for the jobs that excite you, even if you don’t fulfill all of the requirements.
How do you stay connected in a remote team?
Treecard prioritizes our culture and communication on professional and personal levels. Being a remote team, we communicate through Slack messaging and huddles, daily video calls for work and social interactions. Outside of remote communication, we have in-person retreats where everyone meets up. Our fun and productive work retreats unite us as a team and keeps us focused on our goals.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
The gym! I began my iron journey in 2018 with powerlifting. In the beginning of 2022, I switched gears to pursue the bodybuilding stage to compete. I have lost nearly 100lbs since August 2020! Besides that, I am snuggling up with my cats and hanging out with my husband. Currently, I am learning iOS development through Treecard’s Wellness and Development Stipend!
What's your favorite sustainable tip? / What are some eco-friendly things you do in your day-to-day?
Using my Treecard of course! When purchasing produce, I aim to skip using the plastic bags. To stop your apples and cucumbers from crazily rolling around in your cart, pop your fruit and veggies into a reusable bag and then scan!
What is your favorite animal?
Any animal that has a long neck— giraffes, emus, alpacas, you name it. If ya have a long neck and are awkward, I automatically love you.
