In this ongoing blog series, we speak with WP Engine employees around the globe to learn more about their roles, what they love about the cities they live and work in, and what they like most about working at WP Engine. 

In this interview, we speak with Associate Software Engineer Megan Duffy, who recently celebrated her three-year anniversary at WP Engine’s Limerick office.

Going back to the start, how did you discover WP Engine?

I discovered WP Engine when one of their Meet and Greets were recommended to me on Facebook by, at that time, a fellow CoderDojo mentor. I was working freelance then and saw it as a good opportunity to broaden my network in Limerick. I arrived without any notions of looking for a new working situation and left knowing that I had to work for WP Engine—I was completely blown away by the culture.

Can you explain your current role at WP Engine?

I am currently working as an Associate Software Engineer. My role right now is to basically be a sponge and soak up as much information as I can about the technologies we use and best practices in each field, while helping my team reach their sprint goals. WP Engine is very invested in building innovative, quality-driven engineering teams and establishing strong fundamental understanding is at its core.

What is your favorite thing about working at WP Engine?

I’m sure it will be said by many but the people make the place and WP Engine exemplifies that remarkably. I enjoy coming into work every day because I enjoy collaborating with my colleagues. Nothing in a workplace can match that!

Can you describe the culture of the Limerick office?

Quality focused. Open and friendly. Passionate about what we do. Full of laughter!

How do you contribute to the success of WP Engine?

I spent 2.5 years working in the Technical Support department where I interacted with our customers, our platform, and our products every day—always keeping the voice of the customer in mind is a key to success!

What is the most challenging part of your job?

“Challenging” in this context generally has negative connotations but the reality is that everything about my job is challenging and that’s probably the main reason I love it. I think a lot of Engineers will relate to that! If I’m not challenged, my appetite for improvement can’t be satiated. 

What is a good lesson you’ve learned in your career?

You have to learn how to learn! In technology, and in life itself, being open to, aware of, and reactive to learning is probably the most valuable skill you can master. Nothing is out of reach if you’re willing to learn.

What’s the favorite part of your workday?

My team does a 15 minute standup every morning to get oriented for the day—the banter and collaborative vibe is always something I look forward to!

What is one of the coolest projects you’ve worked on while at WP Engine?

My team has been working on the Add Domain Flow which significantly reduces the amount of steps a customer needs to carry out in order to set up their domain on our platform. Not only is this an amazing project, but it feels so vindicating coming from Support, and knowing this will have a direct, positive impact on our customers.

Which one of WP Engine’s values speaks to you the most?

It’s hard for me to choose just one. If I’m forced, it would be Do The Right Thing, but Built To Last is a close second. During my time at WP Engine, especially during my time in Support, where you are making lots of quick (and potentially critical to a customer) decisions daily, our company values have served as an indispensable guide. 

What are some of your favorite things about working and living in Limerick?

The food and nightlife of Limerick is unmatched! Great grub and fantastic characters everywhere you look. 

What are some hobbies you enjoy outside of work?

I love to travel—the current pandemic has limited the scope of where I can travel to for the moment but it has also deepened my appreciation for how beautiful Ireland is!

Favorite TV show of all time?

Lost! 

Current addiction?

The game Stardew Valley on Nintendo Switch. So soothing!

What would you recommend others do if they’re interested in WP Engine Limerick or engineering in Europe?

Get involved! Reach out to WP Engine and see for yourself how unique our culture and people are.

Thank you Megan!

Want to find out more about what it’s like to work at WP Engine? Visit our careers site to see the roles we currently have open and check out our blog for more information about all the great people who work here!