Von Garcia
Software Engineer based in NYC
currently working in the leisure travel industry
My happy place is in the "unknown" where I can find new challenges that test my creativity and problem-solving skills.
A little bit about me...
Intro
As my Instagram bio says, I'm either "locked in my room coding, or busy in the kitchen cooking!" Currently, I'm at The OvationNetwork - and when I'm bored, I keep my skills sharp by working on my side project Queue-0!
These tools run my life....
What I've been up to...
AMEX GBT - Ovation
Software Engineer for The OvationNetwork, a host travel management company (TMC) that specializes in luxury leisure travel.
My most notable contribution is creating a solution to anorganization-wide accounting issue that occurred during Ovation's intergation into a new commission reconciliation program for Unit4 (Agresso) CentralCommand setup. I am currently working on a dedicated CRM for host travel management companies (TMCs) that will enable their operations to scale in an organized and efficient manner.
March 2023 - PresentCodesmith.io
Full Stack Software Engineering Immersive Program
Despite already having a deep understanding of concepts like OOP, closures and recursion, it was at Codesmith where I was able to learn how to apply these concepts in software engineering. The most valuable skill I learned was learning how to approach problems systematically. This was pre-LLMs so I deserve the street creds....
2022-23Career Change
From healthcare to tech
It all started when I decided to take 3 CS courses at Hunter College one summer. My first two 'Hello, world(s)' were in Python and C++ and next thing I know, I'm self-teaching myself web development and the JavaScript development ecosystem. It was evident that I've finally found what I want to do with my life.
2021Private Home Health Aide
Providing care to high net worth clients in their homes
During my time as an undocumented immigrant, I was able to find work as a private home health aide assisting high net worth individuals in their homes with activities of daily living (ADLs).
2018-2022Hobbies and Interests
Weekend Chef 🍳
I was not kidding when I said I felt comfortable in the "unknown"
I cook whatever my TikTok or Instagram algorithm suggests that makes my mouth water. To give an idea of how daring I am - I've made bao buns from scratch and prepare my own sashimi at home.
Since 2019Formula One - McLaren Racing 🏎️
COVID-19 + Netflix's Drive To Survive.... It was inevitable....
I've always admired the engineering that goes into making a Formula One car. I chose to support McLaren because that team has pedigree and I want to see them back on top! I'm excited to see Lando Norris and McLaren challenge Red Bull for the Drivers' and Constructors' Championships.
Since 2020Liverpool FC ⚽
You'll Never Walk Alone!
I started following Liverpool FC because of their history and the fact that they were the underdogs. I've been a fan since 2018, when we lost to Real Madrid on the Champion's League Final. I've been through the highs and lows of the team. I hated seeing Jurgen Klopp leave, but I'm excited to see what the future holds for the team!
Since 2018Traveling 🌍 🛫
Working in the leisure travel definitely doesn't help with my travel bug....
I grew up in the Philippines, moved to the US during my teen years and now live in NYC🗽. I am a self-proclaimed 'AMEX points redemption specialist' since I've been redeeming points for travel for the last five years. My latest steal were 2 Air France Premium Comfort seats to Rome for ~60k points! I'm blessed to have visited beautiful cities like Paris, Nice, Bordeaux, Barcelona, Priorat, Rome, Milan, etc. - but the tiny island of Gozo in Malta is what I consider to be paradise! 🌴🌤️
Always been and always will be a nomad!