You keep learning, and that’s exactly what makes this job so enjoyable

Pioneering in the database world

At the end of 2016, Gerard and Edco founded OptimaData, the full-service multi-platform data(base) provider. In early 2017, they approached me to see if I was interested in a job. The timing was perfect. At my previous employer, I was already missing a challenge. OptimaData’s multi-platform DBA concept and consultancy approach offered exactly what I was looking for: broadening my knowledge and learning new things.

Taking the leap into a startup was exciting, but it has worked out very well. Now, more than eight years later, our team has grown to over twenty people. Shortly after I joined, I started working on a client project to help build a modern data platform—a kind of in-house self-service DBaaS. I still enjoy working on this project, and by now I do far more than just database administration. Those added responsibilities provide a substantial dose of challenge, which makes my work varied and highly educational.

What makes working at OptimaData so enjoyable? The diversity of the team. Young, old, different backgrounds, but above all: every single person has a sense of humor. Plus, I collaborate with colleagues who each have their own database specializations. We can learn so much from one another.

Modern technology as a constant challenge

In the fast-paced world of databases, new technologies are always emerging. Currently, I work extensively with modern solutions like Database-as-a-Service, Kubernetes, containers, and CI/CD processes. It doesn’t have to be the absolute newest for me—the approach simply needs to fit what the situation requires. But I must admit, I find these newer technologies especially interesting. They often offer ways to make things a bit easier or smarter. In two or three years, all of this will probably be outdated again. That’s exactly what appeals to me: continually learning is what makes this work so attractive.

AI is intelligent, but sometimes it just talks nonsense

AI has now also made its entrance into database management. For me, it serves as a smart sparring partner that can explain complex technical concepts at lightning speed. The speed is impressive: you ask a question and within seconds you receive usable code, clear explanations, practical examples, or complete documentation. It’s not always entirely accurate though—sometimes it feels as if AI has had one too many drinks and you get some rather peculiar answers.

In my daily work, I mainly rely on the JetBrains plugin with GPT-4 integration. When that really misses the mark or hallucinates, I switch to an alternative AI tool. The time savings are tremendous, especially when drafting documentation for new code.

Enjoying the moment

I don’t think much about what the future holds. I’m happy here, there are plenty of challenges, and I enjoy working with my colleagues. Why would I look for something else?

Balance between work and personal life

I have two children under the age of two, and they keep me very busy. They take up a lot of time, but I absolutely enjoy it. To disconnect from work for a bit, I do sim racing—computer-based racing simulations. It’s great for clearing my mind.

Last year, OptimaData launched “Touchbase,” a podcast where we explore the person behind the DBA. We want to break the cliché that databases are boring and that the people who work with them are, too. Each episode shines a spotlight on a database expert, and I had the honor of kicking off the very first episode.

During the recording, Edco presented me with a few choices that got me thinking. Barbecue or air fryer? I chose the barbecue—that primal feeling of being outdoors, a beer in hand, and meat on the fire is something no air fryer can compete with. But then: fine-dining restaurant or casual pub? Although you might expect a barbecue lover to pick the informal pub, I chose the fine-dining restaurant. What appeals to me there is the perfection and attention to detail in every dish. You can taste that someone has put so much care into what is served.

The easiest choice was John Mayer’s guitar workshop versus an intense Tang Soo Do training session. Making music is my great passion, although with young children I barely have time for it. But the chance to learn from a virtuoso like John Mayer is something I wouldn’t pass up—an opportunity to learn from a master in his field is rare. Unfortunately, it was all hypothetical—my guitar will remain in the corner for now, and John Mayer hasn’t called. But if he ever gives a workshop in the Netherlands, he’ll know where to find me. Until then, I’ll keep enjoying database challenges and sim racing in the little free time I have.

Want to know more about modern database technologies?

Looking for ways to modernize your database environment or curious which technology best fits your situation? Contact OptimaData for a no-obligation consultation.