When people think about building a career in software engineering, they often focus on technologies, certifications, or the next promotion. But lasting careers are rarely built on technical skills alone. They’re shaped by the people we work with, the projects that challenge us, and the opportunities that encourage us to keep growing.
As part of our Why I Stayed series, we asked one of our colleagues, Filip Frank, Sr. Technical Consultant in Java Practice, to finish eight simple sentences. Together, they tell the story of nearly three years at IWConnect – from joining the first project to leading a team and taking on a new challenge as a Solution Architect.
Almost 3 years. Three different chapters.
“I have been part of IWConnect for almost three years now.”
His journey began working with the client Twycis. Over time, that same project became more than a client engagement – it became the place where he developed as a professional, earned the trust of his teammates, and eventually stepped into the role of Team Lead.
Today, his career has entered another chapter as a Solution Architect, working with a new major client and taking on broader technical responsibilities.
My first week was…
“I have very fond memories of my first days here, mainly because I already knew a lot of people from previous companies I’d worked at – so everything felt familiar right away.”
Starting a new job often comes with uncertainty. For him, however, the transition felt surprisingly natural. The welcoming atmosphere, relaxed culture, and friendly colleagues made an immediate impression – one that, according to him, hasn’t changed since day one.
“People were always friendly and relaxed, and that’s still true today.”
The biggest lesson I learned…
“To grow in every possible way, you need to push yourself and step into unfamiliar territory.”
Growth rarely happens inside your comfort zone. Whether that means accepting new responsibilities, learning unfamiliar technologies, or leading people for the first time, every meaningful step forward begins with saying “yes” before feeling completely ready.
The project that changed me…
Not every project becomes a defining chapter of someone’s career.
For him, his first project at IWConnect did.
“What made it special were the people, the client, the relationship we built, and the results we achieved.”
More than the technology itself, it was the trust built with both teammates and the client that made the project memorable. It also became the project that helped him grow into a Team Lead – a milestone he’ll carry into every future engagement.
The colleague I’ll always remember…
Every career has people who quietly influence the way we work.
For him, that person was Dejan Tosenberger.
His dedication, consistency, and commitment to the success of our project became a daily source of motivation and an example worth following.
One thing people don’t know about IWConnect…
“I think people underestimate how many technologies the company supports, and how many experts we have in each of them.”
Behind every successful software project is a diverse group of specialists.
Working across multiple technologies and industries doesn’t just benefit clients – it also creates opportunities for engineers to explore new domains, expand their expertise, and continuously evolve their careers.
If someone asked why I stayed…
His answer is simple.
“I stayed because I feel valued by the company, respected by the people, and because I keep growing and improving every day.”
Sometimes, that’s exactly what makes the difference.
Not one extraordinary benefit.
Not one single project.
But the feeling that every year brings another opportunity to become better than the last.
If I could give one piece of advice to my younger self…
“Don’t be afraid to try something different, to chase new opportunities, and to put yourself where big things happen. Your future self will be very grateful.”
It might sound like advice for someone just starting their career.
In reality, it’s advice that remains relevant no matter how many years of experience you have.
The next opportunity to grow often begins exactly where your comfort zone ends.
The Journey Continues
Every career looks different, but the strongest ones tend to have something in common: continuous learning, supportive teammates, meaningful projects, and the confidence to embrace new challenges.
This story isn’t just about staying at one company. It’s about finding an environment where growth never stops.
If you’re looking for a software engineering career where curiosity is encouraged, leadership opportunities emerge naturally, and every project becomes a chance to learn something new, perhaps your own story could start here.
Ready to write your own career story?
Explore career opportunities at IWConnect and discover where your next challenge could take you.