Imagine a career that involves connecting people, and systems with systems, bridging the gap between technology and organizations. Luuc Teuben, the Integration Specialist at Be Informed, masters the art of harmonizing complex challenges and creating seamless solutions. In this interview, we dive into his journey, his favorite aspects of the role, and the skills required to excel in the field.
Breaking IT Stereotypes: My Journey
Please tell us a little bit about yourself.
From a young age, I was always fascinated with computers. I would open them up, tinker with their components, and fearlessly explore their inner workings. It was clear to me that I wanted to pursue a career in IT, but I struggled with the stereotypical image of an “IT guy.” Back then, the prevailing notion was that an IT professional would sit in a cubicle for days on end, immersed solely in programming and technical tasks.
Upon completing my secondary education, I found myself uncertain about the specific field of study I wanted to pursue, although it was clear to me that it would be something related to IT. By the late 1990s, there was a significant shortage of IT professionals in the Netherlands. During that period, Utrecht introduced a new program called the School for Communication Systems. This course aimed to train individuals who could bridge the gap between organizations, customers, and technology in the IT sector. It seemed like the perfect solution to my professional uncertainties.
The path to becoming an integration specialist
How did you become one? And why?
Before embarking on my journey as an integration specialist, I worked various jobs. In the beginning, I dedicated myself to learning programming languages like .NET and Java and started my career as a junior software engineer. In late 2009, I joined Be Informed as a front-end engineer, engaging in numerous exciting projects alongside partners and clients.
I embraced complex challenges rather than shying away from them: immersed myself in the subject, gathered experts from various fields, and ensured that we made fitting solutions.
When Be Informed introduced the integration platform Apache Camel around 2012, a few years later I made the transition from a front-end engineer to an integration specialist. Collaborating closely with clients and the various third parties involved in the integration landscape meant that I often worked offsite. Occasional international trips added an extra layer of interest and excitement to the role of an integration specialist.
What is your favorite thing about being an integration specialist?
One day, I might sit with an architect to discuss naming standardization. The next day, I could meet with an end-user to hear her vision for a specific application. Together with a security specialist, I evaluate if the proposed solution meets all security requirements. I collaborate with a graphic designer to discuss changes in the look and feel of a web page, and I help a development team address challenges related to application integrations both within and outside the organization. I engage in technical problem-solving discussions with all stakeholders and even participate in building solutions, perfectly aligning with my skill set.
What skills are required to be an integration specialist?
Be Informed utilizes Apache Camel as its integration platform, which serves as a flexible foundation for integration capabilities for both service providers and consumers. By leveraging Apache Camel, Be Informed achieves successful integrations for example with REST, SOAP, CMIS, and JMS interfaces. Apache Camel also facilitates file transfers via FILE and FTP channels. Altogether, Be Informed, through Apache Camel, can cover a wide range of system integrations.
As an integration specialist, it is essential to have a good understanding of these communication protocols. Other popular skills for an Integration Architect include designing application interfaces, conducting requirements analysis, defining solution architectures, working with Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA), Web Services, and Agile methodologies.
How would you explain your job description to non-IT people?
For example, when you are on a birthday, how do you explain what you do and what reactions you get?
I always give a brief summary and say that I connect people, and systems with systems. But if I start telling what I really do and what kind of technologies I use, yes, they space out most of the time! Also, my children would say that “I do something with computers all day”.
A different approach on ideal days at work
What does your ideal workday look like?
My ideal workday is when I manage to shift my focus from the end result to the process itself. Rather than being solely outcome-driven, I emphasize the journey.
You can often find me working at the office in Apeldoorn. Working from home with children is not always ideal. At the office, I have the peace and space to focus, and I also get to interact with colleagues occasionally.
I also enjoy dividing my workday into blocks of time, where I can dedicate myself to specific tasks, themes, or short breaks. What I’ve noticed is that organizing my day in this manner allows me to gain more clarity. I know what I am going to do at each moment and can set aside the thoughts that would otherwise distract me. This approach brings a sense of calm, reduces stress, and ultimately leads to more fruitful outcomes by the end of the workday.
About IT professionals-cliches
After accumulating years of experience, how have your initial worries about being overly technical and less inclined towards communication as an IT employee evolved? Are the stereotypes surrounding this issue real in your experience?
In my experience, I have encountered many IT professionals who indeed fit the stereotypes. They excel in their technical skills but may not be as inclined towards extensive communication. However, I must honestly say that this dynamic differs at Be Informed. They communicate very well, too. Whenever I interact with them, whether I am on the third floor as a mediator or seeking their assistance to enhance our collaborative work, they understand me well and actively support me. So, at Be Informed, we are really working together.
Can you give us some words of wisdom for the upcoming Be Informers?
Certainly! If you enjoy working with different colleagues and engaging in integration projects, exploring new business products and services, and establishing connections between services and external parties, then you will find your place at Be Informed.
If you are someone who wants to be deeply involved in technology but can also translate it into a higher-level conceptual model and explain it in a way that others can understand, I would definitely recommend reaching out to Be Informed. It is a great opportunity to combine technical expertise with effective communication and contribute to meaningful solutions.
Thank you for sharing your insights and experiences with us. We appreciate it.
You’re welcome! It was my pleasure to share my journey and thoughts. Thank you for the opportunity to discuss my role as an integration specialist at Be Informed.
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