Coding and Coincidences: What are the odds of a lucky twist changing your career in GenAI? Kristina explains!

Hi Kristina, quick question for the start: Coding or managing?

This is a difficult question because my role in the GenAI taskforce involves both dimensions. So if I had to choose between coding or managing tasks, the other side would always be missing. Personally, I like the mix: It ensures that our processes are efficient and our team remains agile. Knowing the technical details and being deeply involved in the code helps streamline our workflow and accelerate our progress. For us it is also very important to have people in the team who have a very broad view and understand both sides.

Can you tell us more about your role at the GenAI taskforce?

Officially I am a frontend developer. This means translating design mockups into functional websites that users can actively engage with. It also includes connecting with the backend to ensure that data is presented clearly, conveniently, and attractively. I joined the taskforce at the very beginning and therefore gained a deep understanding of the projects and processes. And when the team and projects evolved, it naturally led me to a more of a team leader role. The reality now is that I also do a lot of things, apart from development. For example, some days, you’ll find me collaborating with our design and content teams, setting up testing strategies, marketing, process optimization, communication – so more management tasks.

What was it that sparked your interest for GenAI?

It was the taskforce itself. One day an urgent case came up and the taskforce was looking for a front-end developer and they needed it immediately. It was actually my colleague who was supposed to do this particular prototype, but she was on holiday. So I stepped in. Everything fell into place perfectly – I enjoyed working in the team, tackling new challenges, and expanding my knowledge. In the end, it was this happy coincidence that sparked my interest in GenAI. And this coincidence was the beginning of new projects for me within the taskforce.

What has changed in your workflow dealing with artificial intelligence?

GenAI is an important part of my daily work routine. I like to use it for brainstorming, coming up with new ideas or automating repetitive tasks. So far I have also used it to plan a road trip, that however is still on the bucket list. Artificial intelligence really helps me with simple use cases. But as a developer who is deeply involved in the creation process, I also know the limitations and bugs that make me extra vigilant. I also know my own strengths and will always make a trade-off between the time it takes me to write a very detailed prompt or just doing it myself, which is sometimes still faster.

What do you need for a good start into the (working) day?

I always need a coffee or matcha. And I like having time to code a bit in the morning. When no one interrupts, no meetups and no one to chat. That is my kind of me-time. If I can, and there are no meetings, I like to listen to some music to help me concentrate.

Thank you for the insights and the inspiring conversation, Kristina.