Get to Know Gloria Walls
As Software Manager, Gloria Walls leads Saber Data’s software development and database management projects, uncovering invaluable insights and providing cost-saving solutions for the TyRex Technology Family and its customers. Many know Gloria for her proficiency in technical support and her industry insight, but there’s still plenty to get to know.
Hey, Gloria! Tell us about yourself – What’s your background? Where have you worked previously?
I originally began in finance, earning my bachelor’s degree and MBA at Penn State and working for IBM in Burlington, VT for 6 years as a financial analyst. After that, I brought my financial expertise to Texas and worked for a company that would later become Texas Mutual. From there, I pivoted industries and began exploring the fascinating world of technology, beginning as a technical support analyst for Lotus Development Corporation, where I supported industry-leading project management applications. After that, I started my own software development consulting firm and specialized in training. This specialization took me around the world to places in Holland, Argentina, Germany, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa and China. In addition to that, I co-authored a technical manual known as a Red Book Residency that was published by IBM.
You’ve been a crucial member of the team for over five years, focusing on software development and database management projects. What excites you about software development and technology more broadly? Could you share a few highlights you’ve experienced here at Saber Data and as a member of the TyRex Family?
I get excited to solve problems and provide technical support to the TyRex Family of companies. Finding quick fixes to broken software is something I’ve excelled at here, whether it’s with an existing 3rd party logistics platform or a custom reporting program. I’m also fascinated with Artificial Intelligence and am cautiously optimistic about where the technology is headed. I think it could be a tool used to improve the lives of many people and offer limitless possibilities. I’ve actually been getting involved with one of TyRex’s developing AI programs and have worked in the space to understand its mechanics and how it functions.
What technical specialties are you putting into your work? Are there any specific areas of focus or expansive projects that you’re working on right now?
One big project I’ve worked on was developing a custom web-based application that retrieved and compared component pricing and information for our purchasing team. I programmed it to scan PDF documents and extract Bill of Materials (BOM) information to help our buyers quickly find the right parts at the best price for their customers.
I also have a passion for learning and look for new opportunities to skill build and try new things when I can. I’ve been part of numerous research teams here at TyRex that investigate new additive manufacturing technologies. One of these technologies that I’ve taken ownership of is our 3D Printed Food Lab where, as the name suggests, we 3D print fully edible food. Here, I get to interact with cool machines and teach my peers how to make their own sugar cookies the 3D printed way!
Every day, many people power up their computers or mobile devices to use a wide range of applications, never thinking about the 1’s and 0’s that give life to the software they’re using. As an industry professional, could you tell us what you think the average person would find interesting about your line of work?
One thing I’ve learned working with software-based technologies is that anyone can learn how to code any of today’s cutting-edge devices. I look at coding as breaking down a problem into easy-to-understand steps, so if you start there, you’ll be able to work your way up.
I also find it fascinating how quickly technology has progressed and how present it is in our world today. Back when I was starting out, a computer would take up half your desk space and had roughly enough memory to store a paperback novel. Today, there are devices the size of my fingertip that can store mountains of data – and these can be found everywhere from smartphones to wearable health monitors. There aren’t many areas of modern life that aren’t touched by computers, and I think that’s really interesting.
At TyRex, we like to say: “We work hard, we play hard, and we continuously foster a caring culture for our employees.” So, when you’re not developing our customers’ software technology here, what hobby do you most enjoy outside of the facility?
I enjoy reading and anything Sci-Fi; Star Trek is my favorite TV show! I also enjoy running, cycling and swimming. I’ve completed several triathlons as well as some distance running events like marathons. I once competed in a two-day team-based running event that spanned 100 miles called the “Ragnar Relay”. I’ve also participated in a family triathlon with my son. Our team name was “Rock the Walls”, and I even had team shirts made for the event!
Gloria Walls
Software Manager
Gloria began her career in finance, earning her bachelor’s degree and an MBA from Penn State and worked at IBM as a financial analyst. After moving to Texas, Gloria entered the technology space and began work for the Lotus Development Corporation, where she supported industry-leading project management applications. She then combined her financial background and problem-solving skill set with her training specialization to start her own software development consulting firm, where she worked on projects that took her to various countries across 4 continents. As Software Manager for Saber Data, Gloria activates her passion for continuous growth and 30+ years of technology experience to surpass project expectations in technical support, database management, emerging technology research and software development. In her spare time, Gloria enjoys works of science fiction and participates in triathlons and running competitions.
