Douglas Knight New Canaan
Douglas Knight is a successful programmer who develops proprietary software for his clients. As a rising expert in his field, he is devoted to spreading the love of coding to young people. He travels to high schools around the country to encourage the students to try coding for themselves.
Douglas Knight New Canaan was first inspired to go into computer science because he was so fascinated with gaming. He continues to be involved in game development on the side, though the bulk of his work lies in designing new business software. He has made advances in front-end development as well as in the back end. His particular skill lies in customizing a piece of software for a specific client or function.
Douglas Knight is originally from Boston and now works in Silicon Valley. He has a Master’s Degree in computer science from a prestigious university. His educational background enables him to solve problems for his clients quickly and accurately. His first job in the field was as a web developer, which enabled him to understand how a website works from the ground up. Later he was able to get an entry-level job as a coder. His career took off, and he found himself promoted to lead programmer on an early project.
Knight combines his robust coding and programming skills with his dedication to public service. He believes that spreading the love of coding will benefit young people by leading them to successful careers in the future, and that industry will also benefit from the influx of fresh new talent.
What do you do in your spare time?
I have some hobbies that keep me busy when I’m not working. I’m not a person who likes to lie around and do nothing, though some days I can see the appeal. My primary hobby is woodworking. I love to put together a solid piece of furniture. I’ve made several pieces of furniture in my home, as well as making things for friends and family. My girlfriend loves the new patio set I just finished.
I also play the trombone, which I have done since I was a kid. I find both woodworking and music very relaxing. I play in a local brass ensemble. It’s great to get out there in the community and share the love of music.
I run as well. I ran a half-marathon recently, but I’ve had some knee issues since, so I’m trying to get back up to speed.
What’s your favorite film?
The Empire Strikes Back is my favorite film by a long shot. I have loved Star Wars since I was a little kid. I’ve always been fascinated with space, and this movie led me to want to be an astronaut when I was a boy. Having the new movies come out while I’ve been an adult has been awesome.
What are your aspirations in life?
My major aspiration is to start my own software company. I’ve gone back and forth over whether I want to go out on my own, but life is beginning to lead me in that direction. I also want to continue to be a good person while achieving success. Too many people in this industry are cutthroat and don’t care who they step on to get to the top.
What is one thing you’ve learned since starting your career?
This is a big one – you can’t please everyone all the time. Sometimes, your vision and your boss’s or client’s vision just aren’t going to match up. You will think you have the perfect idea for the project, but you’ll be shot down. Don’t take this too personally. Sometimes it’s best to step aside and try again later. I’m not saying you should give up when you have a great idea, and no one believes in it but you, but try to have less of an ego complex about your work and you’ll be a better programmer.
What was your first job?
I was a grocery bagger at the supermarket. I bagged groceries for a while, and then they trained me on the register. Working in a grocery store is great job experience for teenagers. You have to be able to deal with the public easily, and not everyone is in a great mood when they’re in line at the supermarket. You have to learn to work in a team with the cashiers, baggers, and back of the store staff. It also makes you humble.
