GEICO • 2005 - 2005
Highlights
- Developed SOAP interfaces for COBOL/DB2 systems
- Created Ruby automation scripts for interface development
- Worked with legacy database systems
- Trained offshore replacements during transition
- Maintained systems during offshoring process
Introduction
At GEICO, I served as a backend software engineer on a 6-month contract, developing interfaces between modern systems and legacy infrastructure. This role required bridging the gap between contemporary web services and decades-old mainframe systems.
Technical Contributions
My primary responsibility was developing SOAP interfaces to legacy COBOL mini-computers using DB2 and other legacy database systems. This work was critical for enabling modern applications to communicate with GEICO's established insurance processing systems.
I leveraged my Ruby expertise to create automation scripts that streamlined the building of SOAP interfaces, demonstrating Ruby's power as a build tool and significantly improving the team's development workflow.
Key Responsibilities
Developed SOAP interfaces connecting modern systems to legacy COBOL applications
Worked with DB2 and other legacy database systems to enable data access
Created Ruby automation scripts to streamline interface development
Industry Lessons
My time at GEICO provided valuable insights into the volatility of the tech industry. The entire team was laid off after six months as part of an offshoring initiative to India. While most colleagues departed immediately, I stayed two additional months to train replacements.
This experience taught me about industry fickleness while demonstrating professionalism through knowledge transfer. By prioritizing company needs over personal ego, I reinforced my reputation as a reliable professional in challenging circumstances.