Employee Profile - Sebastien Mockle, Front-End Developer

Drawing on over a decade of experience in web development and multimedia integration for companies such as CGI or Québecor, Sébastien Mockle became a Tinker in May 2022, bringing forth his rigor, resourcefulness, and creativity for our benefit. Learn more about his work and daily life within our development team.

In a few words, how would you describe your role and your daily routine?

To put it simply, my job involves developing smooth, ergonomic, and high-performance navigation interfaces for users. More specifically, as a front-end developer, I focus on the visible part of a website or web application. It's a complementary role to that of back-end developers, who, conversely, concentrate on the invisible and functional side (the server-side language) of the site or application. If I take the example of a car, the front-end would correspond to the body, color, or type of fabric used on the seats, while the back-end would relate to the entire mechanics of the vehicle (engine, oil, transmission, etc.). On the web, as in a car, these two parts are inseparable from each other.

On a daily basis, I collaborate with the design team to conduct feasibility studies and provide recommendations to enhance the user experience. I typically intervene towards the end of the production chain of a site or application to code various elements of the interface and find solutions to issues that couldn't be resolved earlier. I also work on identifying, anticipating, and addressing potential blockers that may arise during programming. To do this, I often participate in follow-up meetings with stakeholders to ask questions and carry out necessary follow-ups.

According to you, what are the skills and qualities that a person must demonstrate to occupy a position like yours?

In my opinion, one can learn to do their job, but not to be a good person! That's why I place greater importance on personal qualities than on technical skills.

Certainly, working in front-end design involves mastering programming languages such as HTML, CSS, or Javascript, and having a good understanding of various web accessibility standards. It is also fundamental to know where to find answers to the questions that arise. However, such technical skills can be learned on the job, with a focus on continuous learning.

On the other hand, when it comes to personal qualities, several crucial aspects of our profession are challenging to teach. I'm thinking particularly of qualities like resourcefulness, patience, listening skills, and the ability to work in a team. I would also add that one should not hesitate to challenge designers and question the status quo. This is how developers succeed in innovating in their practice!

What have you learned during your years at Tink?

When I started working at Tink about a year and a half ago, I had no idea that I would be so involved! Shortly after my arrival, I joined ActiviTink, the company's social committee, where I learned to organize events and find solutions to bring even more life to the office.

On a professional level, I realized that it's not always necessary to chase after the latest digital technologies (after all, there are so many that it would be practically impossible!) For example, unlike many of my colleagues, I'm not a fan of React, which I personally find too complicated. In my early days as a developer, I probably would have tried to master this tool despite my reluctance to use it. Now, with experience, I've learned to choose my battles (and my tools) more wisely!

What do you like about Tink, and what makes you stay?

My answer will undoubtedly be very cliché, but what I appreciate most within the company is undoubtedly the atmosphere and the people who are part of it. I enjoy interacting with my colleagues, both in development and in other departments. Tink has a diverse range of profiles, expertise, and personalities. It's a real pleasure to engage with these individuals on a daily basis!

I also have to highlight the great transparency and the very human side of the leadership team, who are always there to listen. You never feel like just a number, and there's always a sense of being an integral part of the company!

What is your proudest professional accomplishment?

In this era of remote work, I am particularly proud to be part of ActiviTink, contributing to bringing people back to the office in an atmosphere that is anything but "beige." It's very gratifying to see that the events we organize inspire some Tinkers to step out of their homes!

How would you describe the work atmosphere at Tink?

In one word, I would say it's relaxed! There's a minimal sense of hierarchy, and our colleagues' doors are always open when we need a helping hand. Everyone remains approachable, even within the leadership.

For you, working at Tink is an opportunity to...?

It's an opportunity to work on a multitude of projects of various sizes within very diverse industries. There's always a chance to push your limits, regardless of the project's scale!

What advice would you give to future employees in your field?

Show the same level of curiosity for older tools as you do for the latest ones because you will often be called upon to work with clients using older technologies. Therefore, you'll need to learn how to use them too! While it's crucial for a front-end or back-end specialist to stay updated on the latest trends in their field, don't neglect the tried-and-true practices that have proven themselves over time!