About me

Introduction

My name is Ivan E. Batista-Ochoa, and I currently work in the e-commerce industry as a software engineer specializing in frontend development.

My current position is Software Engineer at Mercado Libre, an e-commerce company all across LatAm where I work on various projects and in various roles. With Mercado Libre, I've worked on different teams: FBI (Finance and Billing Information), Checkout, Shops (something like shopify) and Product Details Page.

I am also open to part-time freelance work for web development.

Work

I was introduced to software engineering as a full-stack developer, mostly through self-learning. Over time, I've focused more on frontend development, although I've also worked on backend projects and enjoy exploring different technologies. I especially enjoy automating tasks that make workflows and my life more efficient.

A few years ago, I was given the opportunity to enter the tech industry, in which I currently work, working mostly with JavaScript, TypeScript, React.js, HTML, CSS, Next.js and some other backend technologies like Node.js, Express.js and Java.

Career

I began my career in 2017 as a Research Assistant at Universidad Tecnológica de Bolívar in Cartagena, Colombia. From 2019 to 2021, I also worked as a Research Projects Coordinator at the university. During my time there, I started automating tasks to make my work more efficient, allowing me to focus on contributing greater value.

I started programming in my mid 20's while I was working at the university. During that time, I not only automated repetitive tasks but also built my first website using just HTML and CSS, after having been interested in computers and software for some time. After making this first website, I continued to learn more about website building, which enabled me to apply my skills on a professional level since 2021.

In 2021, I started working at Globant. I was initially hired as a Web UI Developer but ended up working as a Test Automation Engineer during my first year. In my last few months at Globant, I returned to working as a Web UI Developer.

In 2022, I started working at Mercado Libre, where I've been working ever since.

A part for the above, I've also held other positions outside of software engineering, such as working as a bagger (customer assistant at supermarket cashiers) at Éxito. I've also volunteered at TECHO, at AIESEC and at ARISE Impact, where I not only shared my knowledge but also learned valuable skills.

Education

In 2016 I completed a Bachelor in Industrial Administration at Universidad de Cartagena in Colombia. Afterwards I did some studies (non-formal, basically bootcamps) in software development at SoyHenry and at Digital House.

I've realized that even though my work could make a great impact, I still felt there was more I could achieve. I considered going to university to gain formal education in the fundamentals of software engineering, but I ultimately chose to continue along the self-education path and since then I've been learning using online resources and I've committed myself to teachyourselfcs. However, I don't rule out pursuing a master's degree and a PhD in the future, as I enjoy research, though that will depend on the circumstances.

Certificates

In 2015, I obtained an English certificate Alianza Canadiense. This shows that I master the English language on at least B2 level on the CEFRL scale.

Leisure

In my spare time, I enjoy reading, mostly non-fiction. My personal library is filled with books on business, personal growth, classics, and, of course, computer science and software engineering.

Beyond reading and learning, I value spending time with my family, going for walks, traveling, cooking, exploring other cultures, and trying new foods.

Fun facts

I love classical and gospel music, and I thrive on challenges — I see software engineering as an exciting way to constantly challenge myself and grow.