You never really know where life will take you, do you? That’s something Caleb Scholze discovered first-hand as he navigated the twists and turns from electrical engineering into the tech world, eventually landing as a lead developer at Atiba. It’s a story of serendipity and passion. As part of our Employee Spotlight Series, Caleb reflects on his journey, sharing what it’s like to spearhead projects in custom software and how unexpected paths can lead to fulfilling careers.
How long have you been with Atiba, and what is your role?
I’ve been on this eye-opening journey with Atiba for nearly five years now. I serve as a Team Lead and Lead Developer in our custom software division. It’s a position filled with constant challenges and rewards, keeping things exciting.
What do you enjoy most about working at Atiba?
Diving headfirst into the consulting world was a conscious decision. I wanted to gather as much technical knowledge as possible — and Atiba has been an ideal setting for this. Whether grappling with complex software problems or bringing a client’s vision to life, each day is exhilarating. Working with such exceptional talent makes the experience even more rewarding.
What motivates you to wake up and go to work?
Beyond the practical necessity of paying bills, it’s the daily dose of the unknown that gets me moving. Every day presents unique software challenges that ignite my problem-solving instincts. Constantly evolving my skill set and tackling new hurdles keeps each workday fresh and adventurous.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
You might be surprised to learn I have a deep fear of heights. Yet, I decided to confront it by proposing to my wife mid-skydiving. Even though I faced it head-on that day, those heights still make my palms sweat.
Do you have a movie quote you often use?
I’ll admit, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s “I’ll be back” comes up during lighthearted moments, generally to assure friends and family I’m coming back from a short break. It’s a fun nod to a classic line.
What was your best vacation?
Celebrating my 30th birthday in New Orleans is a memory I’ll cherish forever. Staying in the French Quarter, sampling beignets, and enjoying a steamboat jazz cruise felt like entering a dream — leaving a lasting impression on me.
What influenced your career path in software development?
My initial draw to Nashville was its vibrant music scene, but after some time with a local band, a data analyst in the group nudged me towards software. As I navigated my new path, the Nashville tech community and my time at the Nashville Software School sealed the deal, eventually steering me towards Atiba.
In a world where the only constant is change, Caleb’s journey from future musician to software developer underscores a valuable insight: sometimes the most rewarding pursuits are those you never planned. For businesses that aim to grasp the intricacies of custom software development, Caleb’s story serves as a reminder to embrace unexpected opportunities along the way.
