An Inside Look at ProQuest: Technology Manager Sangeetha Adisekaran
What’s it really like to work at one of the world’s leading educational technology companies? ProQuest asked a few of our colleagues about how they got here, what they do, and what makes this such a unique place to work.
We interviewed Sangeetha Adisekaran, Technology Manager, who – in addition to being a skilled software engineer – is a several-time winner of the Ann Arbor site ProQuest Halloween group contest.
How long have you been at ProQuest? What do you do here?
I’ve been at ProQuest just over eight years. My team and I ensure that the systems used by Marketing, Customer Experience and Sales are up and running 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Why is the work you do so important to the education community?
ProQuest.com and support.proquest.com are on the stable platform that my team provides. They’re often the starting points for new customers to see and experience our products and interact with the customer experience team to get their questions answered.
What’s your professional background – anything interesting or unique to share?
Throughout my career of 20 years, I have been involved with software and computers, and I have a computer science major. When I started my career I never knew how interesting every day in my professional life would be! We have set priorities for each day, but you must be able to adjust to the needs of the day and be prepared for the unpredictable. As a result, I never stop learning!
What motivated you to get into your current field?
Being part of the lives of thousands of people – and the challenges and the opportunities that creates.
What brought you to ProQuest? What’s one thing that surprised you about working here?
I started my career as a software engineer consultant for Microsoft SharePoint. The first week was the toughest. I was the only engineer working on Microsoft SharePoint, and the rest of the teams were working on other technologies.
That’s when ProQuest’s work culture kicked in. Everyone at ProQuest, from front desk receptionist to my manager, were so helpful. They calmed my nerves, helped me learn, and mentored me until I felt that I fit in with the culture, products and processes. Looking back, I can proudly say that I have grown with the organization both personally and professionally. It’s a great place to work!
What do you like about working at ProQuest – both the job itself and the rewards and benefits?
Gratification! Our platforms are used by hundreds of thousands of librarians, students and faculty to find the relevant information they need about ProQuest products.
What are your ultimate career aspirations?
To innovate – and to be able to impact even more people than I can today through the implementation of cutting-edge technology.
What other fun and interesting things do you enjoy doing?
I’m a runner so I love running and participating in races with my colleagues, volunteering and participating in ProQuest’s multicultural events, like Diwali and Halloween.