Get to Know Amon Tarus

Tell us about yourself.: I'm Amon, a Java Web Developer originally from Kenya, and I currently reside in Martinsburg, WV. Outside of work, I'm an avid football fan, both watching and playing. I'm also passionate about using my technological expertise to help others achieve their goals and regularly participate in volunteer work.

Share your professional journey so far and what inspired you to choose your current career path?: My journey to becoming a Java Web Developer has been a gradual, step-by-step process rather than an immediate dive. After completing my undergraduate studies, I began my professional life as a student advisor and system administrator. This initial role gave me valuable insight into the professional work environment. After about a year and a half, I transitioned into my current field, initially starting as a help desk support person within a Java web development team. In this capacity, I assisted users, troubleshot issues, and provided training. My dedication in this role eventually led to a full transition two years later into a dedicated Java Web Developer position through project allocation, where I've been ever since.
My inspiration for choosing this path dates back to high school, where access to technology courses nurtured my early interest. In college, I took the opportunity during prerequisite stages to research various fields. When I discovered the Java programming language being used in college courses, I was immediately drawn in. Once I started those Java classes, I never looked back; my continued interest in Java has directly led me to where I am today.

Tell us about a recent project or accomplishment you're proud of. How did it make an impact on your field or community?: I'm particularly proud of two distinct achievements that highlight my capabilities and passions. In my current role as a Java Web Developer, I recently undertook a significant project to bring an application up to par. This required a heavy lift to modernize and enhance its functionality. Its successful deployment not only showcased the application's potential but also illuminated numerous open areas for future advancements, demonstrating the impact of strategic development in my field.
Beyond my professional work, I'm deeply proud of my volunteering efforts. I had the opportunity to assist my church and a local non-profit in updating their websites. Both organizations were eager to enhance their online presence, and being able to contribute my web development skills was incredibly rewarding. This experience gave me exposure to different facets of web development that I wouldn't typically encounter in my day-to-day role. The impact on the community was clear: it allowed others to witness how volunteering a skill you're passionate about can truly drive an initiative forward, fostering positive change and inspiring further engagement.

What is a key lesson you've learned in your career, and how has it influenced your approach to work and your future goals?: A key lesson I learned, especially early in my career, is that opportunities come and go, so it's crucial to have a clear goal of where you want to be and strategically plan which opportunities to pursue. This insight profoundly influences my approach to work; it empowers me to say "no" to things that don't align with my objectives, ensuring I stay on my desired path. Oddly enough, strategic planning also encourages me to step out of my comfort zone and take on challenges I might typically avoid, as these experiences often prove vital for growth. This lesson continues to shape my future goals, emphasizing the need for constant forward movement. In a field like technology, where advancements occur daily, knowing your direction prevents stagnation and ensures continuous evolution.

What advice would you offer young professionals who want to make a meaningful impact in their industry?: For young professionals aiming to make a meaningful impact, my primary advice is to embrace intentionality and continuous growth.
First, create a clear vision for your career. Opportunities come and go, so knowing where you want to be helps you strategically choose paths that align with your goals. Don't just accept every chance; actively seek out and say "yes" to projects or roles that push you, even if they're outside your comfort zone.
Second, embrace lifelong learning and adaptability. In fast evolving fields like technology, stagnation is the enemy. Stay curious, continuously update your skills, and be open to new technologies.
Lastly, leverage your passions for positive contributions. Once you've learned new skills, look for opportunities to support others. Applying your expertise beyond your immediate job through volunteering, mentoring, or contributing to open-source projects not only hones your skills but also creates significant impact and provides invaluable experiences.