Spotlight on: Joachim Gehrung
Joachim entered the NODE team from the Fraunhofer IOSB in July 2023 with a strong scientific background. Since then, he has been active as SLAM & Perception Developer.
With his open nature and passion, he helps the SLAM/Perception chapter tremendously. He focuses on the continuous improvement of our tech stack by solving problems or making existing solutions more efficient.
What do you find best about the culture at NODE?
What I like best is the open attitude towards new ideas and approaches. The focus is on getting things done. Therefore, the technology stack is continuously improved to solve newly emerged problems or make existing solutions more efficient.
What originally made you decide to work at NODE Robotics?
I was attracted by the idea of applying my experience and skills from research in a practical environment. I want to change things for the better with my work and make a difference. And where do you have better opportunities for that than in my start-up like NODE Robotics, which is so practice-oriented and open to new ideas?
What's your go-to tool or resource that you can't live without in your role?
The most important tool for me is “GitLab”. It is the central point of collaboration between all developers at Node. Not only does it store our source code, it's also the primary platform for the continuous feedback cycles that every developer participates in.
Is there a book, movie, or personality that has particularly inspired or shaped you?
For me, it's not a book in general, but the genre of Science Fiction. As a technology enthusiast, this is not only entertaining, but also a source of ideas for me. And if one closely studies the history of technology, then it becomes obvious that Science Fiction inspired inventions time and time again.
Are you a foodie? What's your favorite type of cuisine? What's your favorite dish out of it?
I like food because it engages my brain and gives it the energy it needs to do its thing. Countless variations of pasta are always welcome, but my favorite food is the one I cook myself. I like the sense of achievement that comes with having conjured up something delicious, and of course, the smiles on the faces of those who enjoy the meal afterward.
Do you have any hobbies or interests that might surprise your colleagues?
rom time to time, I disappear into the Swedish wilderness with just a backpack, a hammock, and a tarp against the rain. After a few days, I reappear feeling reborn, with interesting stories and a deeper connection to myself and my environment. For me, it's the minimalism during this time that makes me appreciate life and all its facets anew time and time again.
