Andrea Mattavelli, Sr. Software Engineer, GM Technologies

In order to help current students and recent graduates to find their way in the working world, many of our alumni shared their career story. Here the story of Andrea Mattavelli, Sr. Software Engineer for GM Technologies in Mendrisio (CH). USI Degree: PhD in Informatics, 2016.

How did you start your career?

Before finishing my PhD, I moved to London working at Imperial College London (UK) as Research Associate on improving the effectiveness and scalability of automated program analysis techniques. After two years, I moved to GM Technologies as Software Engineer to work on high-availability software systems for online purchases.

Why did you choose a career at GM Technologies?

After two years of postdoc, I was looking for new challenges in a company where I could grow professionally and put my academic experience into practice. GM Technologies offered exactly that: A small but fast-growing company looking for talented engineers interested in building high-quality software systems.

What is your current role/duties?

I am a Senior Software Engineer. My team is responsible for processing all incoming purchase requests 24/7 for more than 1500 partners. My main responsibilities include analyzing feature requests, organizing team work, supervising and reviewing my team’s work, designing and developing new features.

In your opinion, what are the qualities necessary for a successful career at GM Technologies?

Passion, critical thinking, and desire to learn.

What are USI’s positive featuresand qualities?

Internationality; size, which helps to improve student-lecturer communication; top-quality research.

What competences and/or skills acquired in your USI Study Program have been useful/are useful to your professional career?

The main skill acquired during the PhD program is without any doubt a structured and critical mindset. In particular, an attitude to go deep to grasp the essence of a problem.

What is your advice to USI students entering the job market?

Do what you love: life is too short to be dissatisfied. Love what you do: be passionate and eager to learn. Do it with your loved ones, otherwise how can you enjoy your successes?!