Last month we launched Voices of Hiya, a new blog series where each month we spotlight one outstanding Hiyan in an effort to share more about our team and what it’s like to work at Hiya. Every aspect of our employees, both inside and outside of work, makes our team special.
This month we talked to Wilson Bull, Senior Engineering Manager. Wilson is based in Seattle, Washington, home of Hiya’s U.S. headquarters. Read on to discover what his job entails and what makes him an important part of our community.
Why were you interested in working at Hiya?
I was interested in making a career change and I wanted to work at a mission-driven organization that’s making an impact in an area that's meaningful. Who doesn't want to help stop spam calls? Beyond the mission, I wanted to work at a smaller company where I'd be able to wear multiple hats and have a broad impact.
What is your role at Hiya?
I'm an engineering manager and I manage a few different teams here at Hiya. The teams work on different products with our main focus on Hiya's mobile apps and mobile SDK development.
How did you get into this role?
I've been working in software for the last 15 years or so and I transitioned from an individual contributor into management about halfway through that time frame. I like being a multiplier and helping the teams I work with and being able to ensure impact through delivery of mobile software.
How has working at Hiya helped you grow?
Hiya has definitely provided me with many hats to wear! I've really enjoyed stretching into product-focused discussions and helping to create and deliver a product roadmap. I've also relished the chance to learn about and work with different technologies like AWS, Kotlin, RxJava, Swift UI and more.
What does happiness mean to you?
Happiness for me is teaming up with my wife, sipping some hot coffee, and tackling a hard New York Times crossword puzzle.
What is your favorite home cooked meal?
Something quick and easy to cook, and these days for me that's a "Burrito Bowl." It's just what it sounds like.
What are the qualities of a perfect teammate?
I really like working with the team at Hiya — it's made up of folks who collaborate well and are unafraid to get their hands dirty digging into challenging technical issues.
Where is home for you?
These days I have my hands full with a nearly 100-year-old brick tudor on Beacon Hill in Seattle.
What kind of music inspires you?
It depends on my mood. These days I've been enjoying big soundscapes and movie soundtracks which really sets the stage for my work!
When was the last time you took a moment to enjoy nature? What did you do?
I'm a big fan of walks that get ruined by golf, especially the laid-back and casual nature of the par-3 courses in Seattle. They're pretty accessible and it's fun to challenge yourself to see if there's any hope of improving your game.
What makes you genuinely laugh?
First, my wife cracks me up! In a close second is our dog, Javi. Just saying his breed makes me crack a smile, he's a Chi-Weenie (Chihuahua and Weiner Dog mix).
What are your favorite movies to show to your friends?
I really enjoyed the latest Dune movie.
If you could eliminate one thing from existence what would it be?
Cancer.
What was your most memorable day off work?
My wife and I recently had a wonderful time in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. We soaked up the sun, relaxed by the pool and beach, and solved crossword puzzles. It was the perfect place to unwind, relax, and recharge.
What’s your dream trip? Or, what’s the next place you want to visit?
I'd like to travel to Ireland with my family at some point.
What is one of your guilty pleasures?
Ice cream. I find myself making up excuses to run errands close to the Full Tilt ice cream shop that's nearby enough to include a visit almost every time I leave the house.
What motivates you to do your best every day?
I'm really motivated by making a difference and having an impact. Being able to work at Hiya I have a big opportunity to do both every day. It's a fascinating space to work in and push the envelope of what's possible in the phone app.
If you could have an anachronistic profession/trade what would it be?
I'm not quite sure what my options are, but I'd probably pick something where I could work with my hands and help people in the process. Bull & Sons Blacksmiths has a nice ring to it!
Stay tuned for next month’s Voices of Hiya, where we highlight another team member that makes up our wonderful organization.
If you are interested in adding your voice to the Hiya team, check out our careers page to explore open opportunities.
