The Journey of a Software Engineer: Mika Koskinen on Code Review and Teamwork
From Code Reviews to Teamwork: Deep Dives with Miikka Koskinen 🔗
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
The episode features a conversation with Mika Koskinen, a software engineer with a rich background in mathematics and various programming languages. The host reflects on their past interactions and the importance of teamwork, code review, and personal growth within the tech industry.
10:00 Early Coding Journey
Mika shares how he started coding at age 10 using QBasic, inspired by watching his cousin create games. He discusses his early experiences with different programming languages throughout high school, including PHP, C, and Haskell, which fueled his passion for technology.
20:00 Academic Path and Career Start
After high school, Mika pursued a degree in engineering physics and mathematics at Helsinki University, later switching to a mathematics degree due to his interest in mathematical logic. He began his professional career with summer internships, eventually transitioning into a full-time software engineering role.
30:00 Code Review and Team Dynamics
Mika emphasizes that code review should be a collaborative process aimed at improving the code and fostering understanding among team members. He discusses the importance of creating a culture of trust and shared responsibility in these reviews, rather than viewing them as mere gatekeeping.
40:00 Writing and Sharing Knowledge
Mika discusses his writing journey through his blog, Quantype, and the benefits of articulating thoughts on code review and teamwork. He believes that sharing knowledge can enhance professional reputation and spark valuable industry conversations.
50:00 Teamwork and Trust
The conversation touches on the significance of trust in teamwork, especially in remote work settings. Mika advocates for assuming positive intent among colleagues and encourages open communication to foster a supportive work environment.
60:00 Conclusion and Future Aspirations
Mika reflects on his desire to specialize in databases while acknowledging his generalist tendencies. He expresses interest in further exploring topics around code review and teamwork, suggesting that these are areas ripe for development and discussion within the tech community.
What is Mika's background in programming?
Mika started coding at age 10 with QBasic and has experience in various languages such as PHP, C, and Haskell, leading to a career spanning over 15 years in software engineering.
Why is code review important according to Mika?
Mika believes code review is essential for collaboration and knowledge sharing within teams, helping to build trust and ensuring that all team members have a shared understanding of the codebase.
What does Mika aim to achieve through his writing?
Through his blog, Mika seeks to clarify his thoughts, share knowledge, and stimulate discussions within the tech community, ultimately enhancing both his understanding and reputation in the field.