Q&A with Rodman Stuhlmuller, DevSecOps Engineer

Q. You earned a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics with a minor in Computer Science. How have your degrees benefited you in DevSecOps here at Aviatrix?

A. A degree in applied mathematics may not seem like the traditional route into DevSecOps, but it’s proven to be an invaluable foundation. It helped shape my approach towards problem-solving and reinforced the importance of meticulous reasoning, both crucial elements in the world of DevSecOps. It’s also given me a keen eye for detail, enabling me to scrutinize code lines precisely and identify vulnerabilities.

Q. October 2023 marks your one-year work anniversary at Aviatrix. What do you enjoy most about your job adventure to date?

A. It’s been an absolute whirlwind of learning, growth, and exciting challenges. The thrill of working in a cutting-edge field like cloud networking has revitalized my passion for technology and problem-solving. I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to integrate Aviatrix’s solution within the company. My journey doesn’t stop there. I’m working on expanding into other clouds, continuously pushing the boundaries of our expertise. I was thrilled to be part of a customer self-service project, which broke new ground for me as it was my first customer-facing application. It’s special to me as it bridges the gap between us and our customers, exemplifying our commitment to delivering exceptional user experiences.

Q. You started as an intern at Aviatrix Sales Operations and IT. What attracted you to Aviatrix?

A. I was drawn to the captivating world of cloud computing and the opportunities it presented. Aviatrix consistently features cutting-edge developments, enabling me to constantly expand my knowledge and develop my skill set. I’m surrounded by a diverse team of experts who are passionate about learning and collaboration. I’m continuously inspired. Our IT leadership is strategic, forward-thinking, and tremendously supportive. They not only provide clear direction and constructive feedback but also empower team members to take initiative, make decisions, and learn from challenges. They’re accessible and transparent and foster a culture of trust and open communication.

Q. There’s no shortage of talent at Aviatrix on the technology side, but there is a skills shortage in the industry. What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting into DevSecOps or getting into secure cloud networking?

A. Getting into DevSecOps or secure cloud networking is a rewarding journey that calls for continuous learning, adaptability, and resilience. The internet is filled with a plethora of documentation, tutorials, and YouTube videos, and it’s an invaluable ally for self-learning, studying for certifications, or finding solutions to complex problems. Learning on the job has also been a big factor in my development, such as deleting all KMS encryption keys in one click.

Q. You report to and work alongside Matthew and you’ve got great kinship. What do you admire most about him professionally and personally?

A. Matthew has contributed immeasurably to my growth and development. Knowing that the root of expertise is experience and targeted learning, he generously took time to impart to me a wealth of knowledge in DevSecOps. He has a knack for making complex concepts digestible and relatable, which speaks volumes about his mastery and understanding of the field. He also keeps me informed about the latest security vulnerabilities surfacing, ensuring that I’m always up-to-date and aware of the current trends and potential threats. This constant vigilance boosts our efficiency, adaptability, and readiness to address any challenges that may arise. I truly appreciate his mentorship and consider his guidance a cornerstone in my evolving understanding of this industry. His teaching not only serves as a guiding light for me, but also engenders a keen sense of security, innovation, and endless possibilities – which encapsulates the spirit of Aviatrix.

Q. What do you do outside of business hours to have fun and unwind. Do you have any favorite flavors of music that inspire you?

A. I’m passionate about the great outdoors. Living in the natural beauty of Washington state has been incredible. My favorite pastimes are camping, climbing, or hiking in the scenic national parks. These activities rejuvenate my creativity and perspective. Most people are surprised when I tell them that I listen to Lofi hip hop music while I am working as it helps me focus.

Rodman Stuhlmuller is a DevSecOps Engineer at Aviatrix. Prior to working at the company, he spent more than a year at the Bank of Southern California as a Business Analyst. He graduated from San Diego University with a BS in Applied Mathematics with a minor in Computer Science. He resides in Seattle, Washington. Connect with Rodman on LinkedIn. View the Careers page for the latest Aviatrix job openings. Learn more about the Aviatrix Certified Engineer Program.