Steve Smith

Steve Smith is a technology entrepreneur and software developer based in Reading. After creating a Reading student mobile app whilst studying and working in London at a start-up, Steve went on to co-found his own company, Airbyte, with a friend and colleague he met at Reading.

Please can you tell me about yourself and your interests?

My general interests involve anything that is outdoors and anything that involves the sea, I like swimming, surfing, skateboarding. Anything that gets me outside and away from the computer. Aside from that I've started a business, Airbyte.

How did you start down your career path?

I studied at Reading in 2010 and during my time there I met Ross, who is now my co-founder, in the first week of university. We both studied computer science and whilst we were studying we started to build things. Mobile apps were really starting to become a big thing at that time, and we had some experience in creating websites. We wanted to dive in and learn how to make one, so we built the University of Reading mobile app in 2011. We launched it and got a really good vibe from students that it was what they wanted. We ran the app throughout university and I subsequently had interviews and offers for my first job at a digital agency who were based in Reading. I started there as a Software Developer making mobile apps and websites for other companies in different industry verticals; I built apps that were being used in automotive industries, health and fitness, tourism, a whole range of specialities and whilst I was there I became really interested in the tech start-up scene. After 3 years I moved to working in London to work for a start-up as their Mobile Lead where I was leading the building and maintenance of their mobile applications and after this I had the urge to jump full time on my own thing. From when I was at university I have always wanted to work for myself and to start building products I have a passion for, so after I finished at the start-up I was able to put time into Airbyte.

If you could look back and give yourself one piece of advice when starting out in your career what would it be?

Most of the time you'll find people are making it up as they go along, so try and remove any hierarchical judgements about people before you meet them. This will put you on the same level, so you can be in your comfort zone. From there on it is all about experience, exposing yourself to different industries helps mould a vision of what interests you. I have found that networking and making connections, even in a non-working environment has really excelled my career. By being friendly and asking people questions you will be exposed to new opportunities and if you continue to stay open to these, they will take you towards your goals.

What is your style of mentoring and what is the most important aspect of the role?

I am open to any level of communication that my mentees want - it's up to them on how much or how little they want to interact. I always start by trying to give them things to do. I have questions lined up to ask about their goals and what they hope to achieve to make sure that they are working toward their goals at all times - even when they are busy with their coursework and studying. I try and make sure I'm always available to chat.

What made you decide that THRIVE Mentoring that you wanted to volunteer with?

When I studied at Reading six years ago we didn't have an opportunity for mentorship to help me find out what was out there aside from the normal process of working in corporate roles. I want to show that working for a start-up or from a small company is also a possibility (and a great one!).

What skills or knowledge is crucial for a grad?

I would say it is mostly about your attitude and your willingness to learn from others. Always being hungry to learn and obtain as much information as possible from your peers. I know for some it is hard to force yourself to be outgoing, but try to speak to people in your department or people that you aspire to become. For instance, if you aspire for a higher position or a new job role or a different career path - try to expose yourself to the kinds of people already in these roles because it will make you much more comfortable when you do eventually get there.

Have you set yourself any goals?

I want to show the tech start-up scene is accessible to everyone, and try and break down any stereotypes the industry has. I'd like to show that we're just as open to different skills and backgrounds as others.