Ten years of dedication and growth: A software engineer’s journey

We are continuing with the “ProductDock’s career reflections” interview series in the new year. We are proud to celebrate and honor team members who have dedicated ten years or more to ProductDock.

Danijel Dragičević has been with us since 2014 when he began his ProductDock journey as a full-stack developer. Since then, his positive energy and friendly smile have become a signature of the team, while his persistence and eagerness to learn are key qualities that benefit everyone he works with.

What do you like most about your role?

As a software engineer, I enjoy the opportunity to actively tackle our customers’ challenges and collaborate with them to achieve their goals.

What is your biggest challenge as a Software Engineer at ProductDock?

Keeping up with the rapidly changing technology landscape is my biggest challenge.

How did you grow at ProductDock? Tell us about your journey.

I began my journey as a full-stack developer on a local project, developing a web app for a regional hospital. During that time, I gained valuable experience in web app development, testing, deployment, and agile methodologies. After a few months, I transitioned to a project with a global client, where I had the privilege of collaborating with developers from Germany, Ireland, the USA, and our teams in Serbia and Bosnia. This experience gave me a true taste of working on a global scale, exposing me to new technologies and tools that greatly enhanced my technical expertise. I’m especially grateful to the colleagues who mentored me along the way. About five to six years later, as that project concluded, I moved on to another client, which led me to the field I work in today: API integrations.

What is your best ProductDock memory?

There was that one time when we may or may not have had a bit too much to drink… but let’s just say, some memories are better left unfinished! 😄

What is the secret of staying in the same company for more than 10 years? 

It’s the company’s attitude towards its employees, the transparency within the organization, and the positive culture that thrives throughout.

Share a book list that has helped your expertise with short explanations of why you recommend it.

 Unfortunately, I don’t have a specific book recommendation, as I rarely finish them. Although I’ve tried many times, my learning tends to lean towards following tutorials and reading insightful blog posts written by fellow developers.

How do you like the projects you have worked on at ProductDock?

I’m genuinely satisfied with the projects I’ve worked on and wouldn’t change a thing.

What is something you would appreciate if someone told you when you were starting to code?

That good programmers write their own code, but exceptional ones make the most of what’s already available. 🙂

Which app do you find helpful? (in everyday life)

Chrome, Atom, and Warp.

What are the three things you like the most at ProductDock?

The culture of transparency within the organization, the strong emphasis on recognizing and encouraging proactivity, and the opportunities for personal and professional growth.

What was the best concert you’ve ever been to?

Metallica in Zagreb, 2010.

What do you do to relax in your free time? How do you recharge your batteries?

 I enjoy exercising, usually early in the morning before my kids wake up.

If you could visit anywhere in the world you have never been, where would you go and why?

I would choose a tropical island – simply because it’s always great to be in such a beautiful and relaxing environment!

How do you achieve work-life balance?

I make it a priority to complete my work within business hours, so I can fully dedicate myself to my family afterward (whether it’s training, shopping, or homework).

What is the first thing you do when you arrive at the office?

I greet my colleagues and then make myself a triple shot of coffee — no sugar, no milk. 🙂

Greet your work bestie or send a message to all PD crew members.  

 A big shout-out to the PD crew – working with you all is an incredible experience, and I’m excited for all the great moments we continue to create together!