People @ Proxiad: Kalina Pushkarova
In this edition of People @ Proxiad we introduce you to Kalina Pushkarova, one of our skillful Technical Project Managers. Kali has been with the company for 10 years and initially joined Proxiad as a trainee developer. Since then, she has worked on various projects and even relocated to different countries within the company, gaining experience in Java and Project Management. She holds an academic background in electrical engineering and enjoys dancing salsa in her free time. We are proud to present yet another inspirational character at Proxiad SEE.
Kali, you have been with Proxiad SEE since 2013, right after completing your education in Electrical Engineering. How did you decide to make this transition into the field of technology?
I’ve had a passion for technology since childhood but the idea to work in the field came in high school thanks to my 10th grade math teacher who showed me that math can be very interesting, sometimes fun, and that there’s more than one right way to solve a problem. I was also eager to grasp the inner workings of the video games I played and the software I used, seeking to understand how I could create something similar.
Could you share more about your journey within the company? How did you progress from a trainee to a Technical Project Manager?
I began as a Java developer trainee and, since completing my training, I have had the opportunity to work with various clients in the financial sector, employing a range of different tech stacks. During my time abroad, my roles extended beyond development to include tasks in Quality Assurance, Technical Leadership, Business Analysis, and even L2 support, offering me a unique and diverse skill set. Additionally, I worked with technologies that remained largely unfamiliar in Bulgaria, such as Jahia and ESIGate. As a result, upon returning, I found myself drawn to explore other intriguing aspects of software development. A few years later, I transitioned into the role of a Technical Project Manager.
What do you like about your current role and about Proxiad SEE in general?
My current role combines elements of a Tech Lead, Project Manager, and People Manager. What I find most rewarding about this position is the opportunity to cultivate skills across multiple domains, not limited to the technical aspects. I take great satisfaction in guiding and motivating my team members to expand and refine their capabilities.
At Proxiad SEE, we’re presented with a diverse array of projects, offering continual opportunities for growth and enhancement. I have a profound love for learning, and it’s this passion that makes me believe that the role of a developer is one of the most fulfilling jobs in the world; we have the privilege of learning something new every day.
Beyond addressing electrical issues, does the knowledge you gained in university contribute to your work?
The field of engineering instills a distinctive mindset. Each day presents us with a fresh set of challenges, and I believe that my extensive expertise equips me to more effectively address complex tasks and identify potential issues at an earlier stage.
We heard that you love dancing. Could you tell us about your passion for salsa, including how you got started and what you enjoy most about the social events and festivals you attend?
I started my dance journey in high school, taking up salsa. Although there were breaks in my practice, I resumed my passion four years ago with greater dedication. Salsa and social dancing offer me a wonderful way to unwind and escape from the demands of work.
Through dance, I’ve had the privilege of meeting fascinating individuals from all corners of the globe, some of whom have become dear friends. In the past 8 years, I’ve learned that consistent practice enhances both skills and enjoyment. Starting with Cuban salsa, later exploring other Latin dance styles like bachata, I constantly work to improve my technique and style. Swing dancing also holds a special place in my heart.
One of the most rewarding aspects of dance is the chance to attend festivals, where we can learn from some of the world’s finest dancers. This year, I had the incredible opportunity to dance with a 6-time world salsa champion.
Finally, could you tell us how Proxiad supports you in achieving your career goals, and do you manage to find work-life balance?
Several years ago, Proxiad SEE offered me the opportunity to step into the role of Technical Project Manager. Such transitions can be challenging and involve mutual risks, as young managers may later decide to return to technical roles.
In today’s fast-paced world, achieving work-life balance is truly provoking, given our constant technological immersion. What aids me in maintaining this balance is engaging in hobbies outside my professional domain. Activities such as dancing, painting, and outdoor pursuits provide an escape from the world of coding, allowing me to fully relax and recharge.
