Name: Sam M.
Hometown: Chagrin Falls, OH
Office Location: Cincinnati, OH
University: University of Cincinnati
Major: Business Analytics, Finance
Start Date: June 2022
Starting Role: Product & Design Associate

Describe your role.

In my role, I am responsible for gathering work requirements, prioritization, and making informed decisions that align with user needs and business goals. I work closely with development teams, users, and business stakeholders to create a roadmap for feature development. The product I support provides CPGs with more clarity in their supply chain performance.

What was your experience like in the Development Program?

I joined the Development Program alongside many engineers, data scientists, and consultants. This cohort provides support and enables a deeper understanding of all the distinct functions at 84.51°. Participating in the Development Program immediately following my college graduation was an incredibly positive experience. The Program's emphasis on personal and professional growth, through dedicated mentorship and skill-enhancement initiatives helped establish confidence in my role.

How do you believe the 84.51° Development Program compares to other comparable programs?

Unlike most Development Programs, ours stands out with its strong focus on skill training and fostering cross-collaboration. Partnering closely with data science experts, engineers, and consultants, we tackled collaborative projects that enhanced our individual skill sets and allowed us to understand what our role would look like when placed on a team.

How do you believe the Development Program equipped you for success at 84.51°?

College courses often do not cover product ownership, but that's where the product and design Development Program stepped in. I learned the ropes of Agile delivery, got a taste of experience design, and figured out how to weave product fundamentals into my everyday work.

What did you learn from the Development Program that you have transferred into your current role?

During the Development Program, I learned many agile and product fundamentals. Now, as a product owner, I integrate these principles into my daily routine to ensure our team is solving the right problem at the right time.

Is there anything you wish you had known about the Development Program prior to enrolling?

Chatting to people who have gone through the Development Program is always a good idea to figure out if the Program is the right fit. I would be happy to connect with anyone interested in the Product and Design Development Program!

What has been the most memorable experience or favorite project you’ve worked on?

This summer, I was fortunate to attend the Snowflake Conference in Las Vegas. This experience not only deepened my connections with colleagues, but also provided a fantastic platform for enriching my understanding of software and its intricacies. This experience is just one of many ways 84.51° is all about boosting careers and helping associates grow skills.

What advice would you give students who are interested in working in the product & design industry?

Learn about product development and design methodologies through online courses, relevant books, and real-world projects to build a strong foundation. Also, connect with professionals in the product and design industry, including those at 84.51°. Attend industry events, webinars, and meetups to expand your network. Seek out mentors who can provide guidance, share insights, and offer valuable career advice. Building these relationships can open doors and accelerate your growth in the field.

What’s your favorite part about working at 84.51°? Do you have a favorite benefit or perk that is offered?

There is lots of excitement in my day-to-day work being a part of a client facing team at 84.51°. The product which I support relies on cutting-edge technology and allows me to dive deep into new software every day. Beyond my core responsibilities, 84.51° fits seamlessly into my lifestyle – from strolls to our modern collaborative office to lunchtime yoga and exciting events like Cincinnati Reds Opening Day or rooftop happy hours. This balance makes my work life fulfilling.

What do you like to do in your free time outside of work hours?

In my free time, I enjoy gardening, collecting old vinyls, and checking out new breweries. I’ve also recently been into refurbishing old furniture!