Meet Our People: Mark, Senior Software Engineer in Bristol, UK

I get a real buzz from working in such a dynamic industry, and being involved in technically challenging projects with like-minded individuals

Mark Rapson joined Zuken in 2014 as a new graduate and has since been promoted twice. Today he is part of a seven-strong team developing a completely new PCB design tool, based in the Zuken Technology Centre in Bristol, UK.

I joined Zuken as a Software Engineer after graduating from the University of Plymouth with a degree in Computer Science. It was a big step as I moved from Cornwall to Bristol, but I had a warm welcome from colleagues who soon became friends. I was promoted from Software Engineer to Leading Software Engineer after my first two years and then to Senior Software Engineer in 2018.

Training is ongoing. For me. For everyone.

Training began straight away, and my induction included an introduction to all of Zuken’s products and services. The company was very supportive and remains so, and I was able to seek advice from the more experienced team members when I needed to. Looking back, the training I received in the early stages of my career helped smooth my transition from university life into full-time employment. This means I can make the most of my skills. Now four years into my career with Zuken I have more responsibility and often own key tasks. There are still people I can turn to for advice, and I often support newer members of the team.

Our team is collaborative and supportive

We’re all about continuous improvement too, and we often reflect on previous challenges and solutions to see how things can be done better.

My role is not just about writing code

I’m also involved in writing product specifications and test procedures, and it’s rewarding to know that what I do results in CAD software that helps other engineers – our customers. My code is part of software that can help design PCBs for anything from autonomous vehicles and satellites to IoT devices for smart homes.

One of my most memorable projects involved improving the performance of 3D operations in our software.

I have an interest in 3D graphics, so being able to delve deeply into our 3D solution to spot bottlenecks and come up with performance improvements was enjoyable. I am currently working on a challenging project developing a new PCB design tool, which I’m enjoying.

There is some flexibility in hours and a good social life.

I’m a member of Zuken’s sports and social club, which organises all sorts of different events and outings; cycling trips, curry nights, theatre trips etc. I enjoy life at Zuken. There are great career development opportunities, so no two days need be the same, and I get a real buzz from working in such a dynamic industry and being involved in technically challenging projects with like-minded individuals.