We rely on our software support team to make sure that our customers have a seamless experience with our automation solutions. Continuing our series profiling the amazing team at Biosero, today we are turning the spotlight on Stephen Dambman, Software Support Engineer. He joined Biosero in 2019 and is based in Auburn, Washington.
What do you do at Biosero?
I solve problems. If a customer has an issue, my goal is to get the system back up running as quick as possible. The first step is to determine whether the issue is with the hardware or software. If the issue is software, I will determine if it is something in the method or the driver needs to be updated. I then work to implement the required fixes. If the problem is with the hardware our field service team takes over. At the end of the day, the goal is to get system back up and running as quickly as possible.
How did you get on this career path?
I got thrown into the biotech world by happenstance. I did some contract work for Biosero back in 2012 when they had an install in the Seattle area. They didn’t have anyone up here to do the work. My brother, who’s been with Biosero for a long time, recommended me. I worked as a contractor for Biosero for a couple of years. Before that I was a self-employed carpenter and cabinet builder.
What brought you to Biosero?
I ended up working at the lab where I did the installation for about five years after doing the contract work. Biosero kept trying to get me to move to San Diego and work for them. I didn’t want to move, and finally they offered me the opportunity to work remotely. Working for a company that accelerates science the way Biosero does was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about laboratory automation?
Automation takes village. Going from the manual lab bench process to the fully automated system requires many different skills. I really enjoy working at Biosero since we have many industry experts sharing their expertise to create top of the line automation. Then, when the system is placed in the customer’s lab, it is easy for them to do their science with Green Button Go Software.
If you could automate anything in your life, what would it be?
I would automate cleaning up after the dog. Once that is done – laundry.
What’s your best career advice?
Don’t be afraid to take a leap just because you don’t have the degree or training that is normally required. I grew up doing construction through high school. I didn’t do the formal college path to get to my position. If you’ve got some troubleshooting chops, you don’t have to take that normal career path.
What was the first thing you ever wanted to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a cowboy. I think it came from playing cowboys with my friends.
What’s something your colleagues don’t know about you?
I don’t think most of them know how much I work on and tinker with vehicles. I like tinkering and I have lots of friends who are mechanics and welders.
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