Marko Gichevski has been a part of ⠞IWConnect for 15 years. During this time, he has worked on numerous projects, overcome challenges, and grown both personally and professionally. Along the way, he has also created wonderful memories. Marko’s contributions have been instrumental to our company’s success, with one of his most notable achievements being his work on 3DotsCommerce., one of our first products. Here is his story.
Being part of ⋮IWConnect for over 15 years means growing alongside the company from nearly the very beginning. Over the years, employees have navigated career transformations, embraced growth opportunities, tackled challenges, and celebrated milestones. Thinking back to where it all started, what made you join ⋮IWConnect?
Fifteen years with ⋮IWConnect feels like a lifetime filled with remarkable moments, challenges, lessons, and countless opportunities. It’s been a journey that I look back on with pride and gratitude. When I joined the company, I had just about a year of experience, and at that time, Bitola didn’t offer many IT opportunities. When the company opened the job position, there was a lot of competition—over 70 applicants, to be exact. After going through an intensive 4-hour interview process at our old offices in Karposh, I was thrilled and proud to be one of the seven people who succeeded.
From day one, I felt welcomed and supported, which made joining ⋮IWConnect feel like becoming part of a big family. What truly made me want to join was the opportunity for growth and the supportive culture that encouraged learning from mistakes without fear of failure. Knowing that I could make mistakes, learn from them, and still have the company’s full support was rare and something that set ⋮IWConnect apart. This unique culture made it an easy decision to join, and it’s why I’m still here today.
Do you remember the first team you worked with and the first project you were part of?
Yes, I vividly remember my first team and my first project. At that time, the company was working on a large-scale project called “Cricket” for a client in the United States within the telecommunications industry. This project was massive, with over 30-35 people involved, organized into several sub-projects.
I was part of a smaller team working as a QA engineer alongside another colleague, focusing on front-end testing for a website called “MyCricket.” This website was the public-facing portal of the Cricket project. Although our part of the project seemed small compared to the larger initiative, it had a significant impact. Many functionalities from the core back-office system were made available to end customers through this web interface, bridging the gap between the internal systems and the users.
This experience not only helped me grow professionally but also showed me the importance of even the most minor contributions to the success of a larger project.
As one of the pioneers behind ⋮IWConnect’s very first product, how does it feel to have been part of laying the foundation? Are you proud of what you’ve helped build?
Over the past 15 years, my career at ⋮IWConnect has evolved across various fields. Starting as a QA engineer for nearly three years, I transitioned into roles such as Technical Consultant, Lead Consultant in the application development unit. Eventually, I became the first Product Owner of the 3DotsCommerce platform and a Business Unit Manager (BUM). This journey allowed me to gain valuable experience in both technical and soft skills, shaping the professional I am today.
One of the most pivotal moments in my career was working as a Lead Technical Consultant on the ECP project. It was my first large-scale project, lasting over five years, where I was responsible for leading a team of 15 people. This role came with challenges but it also helped me grow stronger and take immense pride in what we accomplished together during those years.
The most fulfilling chapter of my career came when I took on the role of Product Owner during the COVID-19 pandemic. This period was transformative, allowing me to turn ideas into reality and witness the results. Bringing each concept to life and seeing the positive impact of the 3DotsCommerce platform was incredibly rewarding. I believe every professional aspires to experience a feeling of accomplishment.
Being part of laying the foundation of such impactful products and initiatives makes me incredibly proud, and it’s a privilege to reflect on the lasting contributions I’ve made alongside the talented team at ⋮IWConnect.
What is the one thing that kept you part of ⋮IWConnect for so long?
The one thing that has kept me at ⋮IWConnect for over 15 years is the company’s culture, the people, and the trust I’ve been given throughout my journey. From the very beginning, I felt like part of a family—a place where growth, learning, and collaboration are always encouraged. What truly stands out is the opportunity to be part of a team that makes decisions and sets future goals, giving me a sense of purpose and ownership in everything I do.
Additionally, the top management’s availability and open-minded approach have been incredibly motivating. Their willingness to listen to us, align business goals with individual growth, and ensure that expectations are balanced on both sides is something truly unique. This level of trust and inclusivity creates an environment where you feel valued and empowered to contribute and thrive.
Knowing that my efforts are recognized and that I’m part of a company that values innovation, teamwork, and mutual respect has made all the difference. ⋮IWConnect isn’t just a workplace—it’s a place where I’ve grown, contributed, and been inspired every step of the way.
