Software Engineer based in NYC
currently working in the leisure travel industry
Grounded by a strong foundation in software development fundamentals and driven by endless curiosity, I really enjoy building full-stack applications that showcase my creativity and problem-solving skills
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About
I'm Von Garcia! As my Instagram bio says, I'm either "locked in my room coding, or busy in the kitchen cooking!" Currently, I am a software engineer at The OvationNetwork - a host travel management company that specializes in leisure luxury travel.
Current Stack of Choice
My Experience
Career Change
From healthcare to tech
It all started with a 'Hello, world' in Python..... Then started using libraries like pandas and matplotlib..... I was hooked.
2019Codesmith Software Engineering Immersive Program
Learned how to securely piece a back-end to the front-end to make a full stack application.
Codesmith was a game-changer for me. I had to self-teach myself JavaScript, and already have a strong grasp of concepts like OOP, closures and recursion. It was my first time using libraries like Redux, Node.js, Express, and PostgreSQL. The most valuable skill I learned was learning how to approach problems systematically. This was pre-AI so I deserve some street creds....
2022AMEX GBT | The OvationNetwork
The OvationNetwork is a host travel management company that specializes in luxury travel and providing white glove service to clients
Before starting, I had no idea what goes on after I click 'Book Now' when I purchase a trip from Expedia. Now that I know the 'ins and outs', I can say for certain that there needs to be more concentration on applying modern tech solutions to improve efficiency in the travel industry. I am currently working on a CRM that my team (operations) can use to keep us moving faster and more organized as we continue to scale. My most notable contrinution is solving a mission-critical, organization-wide accounting issue that occured when we were integrating into a new commission collection and payment process in our existing Unit4 (Agresso) CentralCommand setup.
March 2023 - PresentHobbies and Interests
Weekend Chef
Trying out my take on different cuisines on the weekends
Whatever I see that makes my mouth water on my Instagram Discover Page or TikTok algo, I try to make it. To give an idea of how daring I am - I've made bao buns from scratch and prepare my own sashimi at home.
Since 2019Formula One - McLaren Racing
What can I say? Netflix'sDrive To Survive is just THAT good....
I've always admired the engineering that goes into making a Formula One car. I chose to support McLaren because that team has pedigree and I want to see them back on top! I'm excited to see Lando Norris and McLaren challenge Red Bull for the Drivers' and Constructors' Championships.
Since 2020Liverpool FC
You'll Never Walk Alone!
I started following Liverpool FC because of their history and the fact that they were the underdogs. I've been a fan since 2018, when we lost to Real Madrid on the Champion's League Final. I've been through the highs and lows of the team. I hated seeing Jurgen Klopp leave, but I'm excited to see what the future holds for the team!
Since 2018Traveling
Working in the travel industry doesn't help with my travel bug....
I was born and raised in the Philippines, and I have always been fascinated by different cultures ever since I migrated to the United States and moved to NYC. I am also a self-proclaimed 'points hack' specialist, my latest steal was two Premium Comfort seats to Rome for around60k points! I'm blessed to have visited beautiful places such as Paris, Nice, Bordeaux, Barcelona, Priorat, Rome, Milan, etc. - but Gozo, Malta is what I consider to be paradise.
Always been and always will be a nomad!