In the vast ocean of technology, having a reliable crew is crucial. Join us #InsidetheArk as we set sail on a journey to get to know the Kubeark team: the individuals who bring their unique skills and expertise to the table, ensuring that our ship stays on course in the ever-evolving tech sea.
Today, we're delighted to introduce you to Cristian Acaei, our Front-end Architect whose love for design and technology is creating waves at Kubeark.
Key responsibilities
My role in the Kubeark team is that of a front-end architect, whereby I am responsible for designing and developing the front-end architecture of our web platform, ensuring that it delivers an exceptional UI and user-friendly UX. To achieve this, I work closely with the back-end development team to ensure seamless integration of front-end components with the corresponding back-end systems.
This involves maintaining consistency and ease of maintainability in the user interface, ensuring that the user experience is top-notch.
In addition to this, I collaborate with other front-end developers to identify and implement best practices and standards for front-end development. I also evaluate and recommend new front-end technologies, frameworks, and tools to optimize performance and efficiency.
What’s something that has surprised you about your chosen career path?
At first, my primary interest in IT was focused on the UI and design aspect. However, I never anticipated that this interest would lead me towards a career as a developer.
Pursuing what I loved helped me realize that I have the ability to achieve anything I set my mind to, and it keeps me from ever feeling bored with my work.
Mentoring and inspiration
Throughout my professional journey, I've had to adapt to different applications and methods to achieve my goals. Initially, I started out working as a designer in Photoshop, creating websites using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Over time, I transitioned to developing web apps, which required me to use a variety of tools including Illustrator, Sketch, SCSS, jQuery, KnockoutJS, Meteor, React, and NextJS. So, I've learned to juggle and adapt, discovering my ability to learn quickly.
What’s your favorite famous or inspirational quote?
When it comes to inspiration, Cristian turns to a quote by Lance Loveday.
"The best websites aren't designed, they're re-designed."
To me, this quote means that a website's design is not a one-time effort, but rather an ongoing process, which implies updating, monitoring, evaluating, and making iterations based on user patterns and feedback.
What’s the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received?
“Never stop! Always try to improve yourself and your work.” This piece of advice of continuously trying to improve oneself and one's work has proved to be true in my line of work. Even after delivering a product/feature free of bugs to clients, we always seek their feedback to improve the product further. Hence, there is never a point where we can say that we have completely finished our work.
Working at Kubeark
In what ways are you most thrilled to see Kubeark enable hyperscaling for its customers?
To me, the most exciting aspect is the ability to manage all deployed apps across multiple clusters simultaneously using a single, user-friendly dashboard.
This ability to centralize management and streamline the deployment process offers a significant advantage in terms of efficiency and ease of use.
What’s the coolest or most interesting thing you’re working on right now?
Currently, we are developing an all-in-one software operation management platform. Despite only just starting this journey, we have already implemented many interesting features that it feels like we have been working on it for 2-3 years instead of just one.
Our goal is to make a significant impact on the world of SaaS through an innovative approach to cloud computing that incorporates our unique fingerprint.
There are numerous paths available to us in this area, and we look forward to exploring and expanding our capabilities in the cloud computing space.
Why did you choose Kubeark?
Upon learning that my former co-workers and friends were developing an idea, they reached out to me for front-end support. After debating on the concept over some casual drinks, I recognized its potential and relished the chance to professionally challenge myself. The opportunity to start from something from scratch and reach new heights exhilarated me.
Life outside the Ark
To unwind after work, I enjoy watching science fiction movies, engaging in activities like building Star Wars-themed Lego sets, and reading about information technology. Also, when I'm not web designing for Kubeark, I enjoy immersing myself in my hobbies, which include scuba diving, skiing, and maintaining aquariums.
I love the tranquillity that comes with observing aquatic life—it's a fantastic contrast to the fast-paced world of front-end architecture.
What did you want to be when you grew up when you were in elementary school?
Following in my dad's footsteps, I aspired to become a police officer. During my childhood, I was heavily influenced by movies featuring cops and superheroes.
If you could live in any city, where would it be and why?
Living close to a beach with warm waters like Lanikai Beach in Oahu, Hawaii would be a dream come true for me, as I could enjoy activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and simply relaxing by the seaside
If you are curious to find out more about Cristian's professional journey, you can follow him on LinkedIn: Cristian Acaei