At AnaVation, AnaVators are our greatest asset. The AnaVator Spotlight series highlights our talented team members and their career journey with us – not just their skills and accomplishments but also their passions, values, and what drives their success. This December we’re excited to feature Shawn, a Principal Software Engineer, who has been with AnaVation for over three years.
Since joining AnaVation in August 2021, Shawn has played a pivotal role in supporting the FBI account. His role is dynamic, requiring creativity and day to day research that are both innovative and impactful. Much of his skill development has come directly from the team’s task order. “We are constantly learning and growing,” Shawn explains.
Shawn appreciates the AnaVation-provided subscription to a mobile development resource that offers valuable insights into emerging technologies. He notes, “In a research focused position it can be difficult to stay on top of emerging technologies, techniques, and security features. The developmental videos and articles have been helpful for distilling updates down to what I really need to know.” Looking ahead, Shawn plans to take advantage of AnaVation’s yearly training support by attending a security conference, with hopes to take part in the final ShmooCon in 2025.
Shawn admires AnaVation’s commitment to its employees. When faced with a challenging situation involving a competing contractor, leadership stood by Shawn and offered tremendous support. This event not only reinforced his trust in AnaVation but also elevated the company’s reputation within the project. When asked about his favorite part of the job, Shawn says, “I get to work with the smartest people on tasks that matter.” He values performing meaningful work in a low-stress environment with the most talented staff. He credits Tom S. who he considers a mentor he looks up to. “I’ve always respected the way Tom runs projects and programs with a clear-headed no-nonsense approach and levity. Tom is the reason why a number of the most talented engineers work here at AnaVation today,” he acknowledges.
Shawn regards the exceptional company culture AnaVation upholds. While dispersed work locations can make in-person connections challenging off work hours, AnaVation fosters community through creative virtual team-building activities and lunches. One of Shawn’s favorite work traditions is where AnaVation gives out free North Face jackets in September, which occurs every few years at our company. During the cold weather season, he likes to show off AnaVation pride with our high-quality employee swag.
Outside of the office, Shawn explores his artistic side by playing acoustic guitar. Whether it’s folk, blues, classical, Celtic, or bluegrass, his diverse style keeps him inspired. This hobby began in high school, which led to playing in bands during and after college. When not strumming the guitar, Shawn enjoys discovering new restaurants, concerts, or community events downtown. His weekends are often spent immersed in the simple joys, finding new experiences in his local area. As a fun fact, his daughter proudly notes his hidden talent for making a great turkey call, a skill he humorously attributes to his Virginia Tech roots.
Shawn’s journey at AnaVation exemplifies our commitment to fostering growth, providing support, and creating a collaborative environment. With his passion for impactful work, dedication to constant learning, and creative pursuits outside the office, Shawn continues to shine as an AnaVator.
