Ali has been working at Sioux since 2022. In his role as Tech Lead, he fulfills two main responsibilities: working as a Software Architect, where he focuses on technical design in close collaboration with the team, and managing projects to ensure successful delivery. In addition, he enjoys giving training sessions to client teams, helping them to strengthen both their technical expertise and their collaboration.
His career path reflects a broad curiosity. At the University of Pennsylvania, Ali designed his own applied science program that blended physics, electrical engineering, economics, and software. ‘Early in my career, I worked on advanced physics experiments. Later I moved into telecommunications and defense, focusing on software and software quality. Over the years, I’ve combined hands-on technical work with setting up processes, designing software architecture, and making sure projects are delivered reliably and efficiently.’
Growth and support
Beyond his own projects, Ali takes pride in supporting the growth of others. He often helps developers between projects with internal assignments that build skills and prepare them for future challenges. ‘In smaller projects I sometimes combine roles’, he says. ‘That way I can not only provide technical guidance but also help colleagues grow personally and professionally.’
Ali also appreciated the support he receives himself. ‘Sioux constantly asks how you want to develop and provides opportunities to do so. There’s a training budget, access to resources for both technical and personal growth, and soft skills training that help you improve as a person. This approach not only enhances your professional abilities but also helps maintain a good balance between your work and private life.’
A dynamic environment
For Ali, the culture of empowerment is key. ‘I think the most attractive aspect is that developers here are truly empowered. There’s no manager dictating what we should do. It feels like I'm working in my own company. I feel engaged and take real ownership of the process.’
That environment is matched by the projects. ‘Our customers, and their customers, are the best in the world. They’re working on cutting-edge innovations, and they are driving us to do the same. There’s always something new and challenging to work on.’
‘For me, the best part of Sioux is simply working with great people. That’s what makes it so much fun, and that’s why I don’t want to leave this environment.’
Working in Delft
Having worked at the Delft office for a while, Ali appreciates the team’s energy. ‘It’s a lot of fun. The team is full of talented, high-quality people, and even though most of us work on separate projects, there’s constant interaction. Whether it’s chatting, sharing meals, or observing each other’s work.’
One of the things he finds most rewarding is mentoring younger engineers. ‘Working with new graduates is inspiring. I can introduce design methodologies they haven’t seen in school but that make a huge difference in real projects.’