Alex Davis is a 2017 graduate of Niagara College’s Computer Programmer Analyst program. With the Research & Innovation division, he served as Research Assistant from 2016 to 2017 and then Research Associate until July 2019. Alex is now employed as a Software Developer at Landlord Web Solutions in Thorold.
Tell us about where you work:
Landlord Web Solutions (LWS) offers online marketing and data services for the rental housing community. The company builds rental housing websites in Canada and manages advertising syndication for many of the country’s largest property management firms. LWS is also host to one of the largest rental housing conferences (WEBCON) in North America.
Describe your role within the company:
As a Software Developer I develop new web-based products and provide support for LWS’s innovative content management system platform. There are many opportunities to learn as LWS actively seeks to explore new technologies to benefit their clients.
How has your Research & Innovation experience helped you prepare for your current role?
My experience at R&I has given me the ability to research and understand emerging technologies, work in a heavily team-based environment, learn from peers, and be more independently motivated.
A memorable applied research project during your time at R&I?
The sensor blanket project with Studio 1 Labs. [Studio 1 developed an “intelligent” bedsheet that automates routine respiratory patient monitoring for healthcare workers, without the use of cumbersome wires. Niagara College’s Digital Media & Web Solutions team developed an intuitive, aesthetically pleasing user interface for the fabric-sensing technology.]
In my role, I researched new technologies and various solutions to process and present high volumes of data through a web interface; and fostered client relationships through ongoing communication. I was able to present and see our work in action at the 2017 IBM Disruption conference and at Parliament Hill.
What led you to Niagara College in the first place?
I wanted to develop a skillset to begin and grow a career. Niagara College was the way to go.
Most memorable experience at NC?
Working with R&I, of course!
A faculty member who influenced you?
Everyone – Marsha Baddeley, Dave Kendall, Dave Stovell, Melissa Vanderlely, Peter Vanscoy, Cliff Patrick, James Marks. All of the CPA faculty have contributed to my growth as a young professional.
“My experience there has given me the ability to research and understand emerging technologies, work in a heavily team-based environment, learn from peers, and be more independently motivated.”
A mentor at R&I?
Neil Wilkinson, Gregor MacLean, Mike Duncan, Kimberley Cathline, Carolyn Mullin, Tanya Hvilivitzky, Gord Maretzki, Christine Raymond, Al Spence, and all the staff at Research. You all are what made R&I so special.
What advice would you impart on current research students or future alumni?
Take the time to learn and absorb all the knowledge and technical skills you can. Take initiative and don’t be afraid of failing.
After being in the workforce, what have you learned?
Every office needs a good coffee maker.
Proudest achievement since graduating?
Getting a salary gig!
What are your interests outside of work?
Spending time with my wife and our dogs.
If you could have a billboard message seen by many, what would it say?
“No matter what you do, you will always be better than Game of Thrones Season 8.”
Anything else you want to say?
Tell everyone I say Hi!
