

Before joining in 2005, she created custom web applications, and built and managed membership databases, bookstores, shopping carts, and registrations at TechniServe. Deana has a BS in Mathematics and Computer Science from Lawrence Technological University, graduating Summa Cum Laude.

What was your first job?
My very first job was a grocery bagger/cart gatherer at Kroger at age 14. Pushing carts through the snow during cold Michigan winters is a memory I will always have. I’m now that person who always makes sure to put my cart back in the corral in an attempt to make someone else’s job just a little easier.
What is the most unique experience you’ve ever had?
I went on a 10-day trip to Italy with my mom and sister. We’re 100% Italian and none of us had ever visited the country before. We left our spouses and kids at home and took a very fun girls trip.
How did you get interested in software development?
I always really liked math and everyone always told me I should be an accountant or engineer, but neither seemed all that intriguing. In high school, I needed to find an elective to take and randomly chose a Computer Programming class because it sounded interesting. I ended up loving it and never looked back.
What is your favorite interview question?
I used to ask people how they would design a spice rack for the vision impaired to see what questions they’d ask to gather the appropriate requirements and how they solved problems. One candidate asked what the budget was. I said it was unlimited. His response? “Unlimited budget? I’d cure blindness.” Not quite what I was looking for, but it was a pretty great answer.

Bagels or donuts?
The little kid in me loves a rainbow sprinkle donut.
