Sabrina Nunn
Software engineer for Centennial Lending
Age: 28
Location: Fort Collins
Tell us about yourself, your history and how you came to be where you are now.
I moved to Northern Colorado when I was 2 years old and attended schools in Loveland and Windsor. Growing up, I had a passion for learning: I was always curious and loved to be challenged academically. I was interested in all subjects, but the two that I loved the most were math and science. So, when deciding on a degree, I was focused on finding a STEM school. I was eventually offered a position on Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s volleyball team in Arizona, where I decided to pursue a degree in software engineering.
Explain your career, achievements and professional highlights.
I am a software engineer. I previously worked on web development, but I transitioned to a new company last year. I am now the only full-time engineer at Centennial Lending, where I primarily work on automating workflows and providing support software to my coworkers. Being the only full-time engineer means I handle most steps of the engineering process on my own. Despite that challenge, I have already implemented multiple new processes that have improved many of my coworkers’ daily workflow.
In what ways do you give back to the community?
I love to volunteer with organizations that mean something to me. Recently I have been volunteering with Veterans Community Project in Longmont, an organization that provides housing for homeless veterans. My father served in the military, and I have many other friends and family members with connections to the military, so being able to help those who served our country means a lot to me. I recently helped paint some of their tiny homes, and I am on the committee to help plan their annual fundraiser.
What do you consider your biggest accomplishment or challenge you’ve overcome, either professionally or personally?
I am the first person in my family to go to college, so one of my biggest accomplishments was not only attending college but successfully completing my bachelor’s degree.
Where do you see yourself in five years? In 10 years?
In the next five years, I see myself pursuing a master’s degree in AI and machine learning to expand my skillset as a software engineer. Over the next 10 years, I see myself taking on more leadership roles and helping guide my company to utilize the newest technology. Personally, over the next five to 10 years, I see myself getting married and having a few kids (and lots of dogs).
What piece(s) of advice would you give to your younger self?
It is OK to be human. Younger me put so much pressure on herself to be perfect, and I was so afraid to make mistakes. I have learned that mistakes can lead to better opportunities and personal growth and that success does not mean perfection.
Tell us something unique about you.
I have always really loved reading, and I spend a lot of my free time in books. It is a passion I have had since kindergarten. I read about 200 books a year.
What have you learned from volunteering with the Veterans Community Project?
The experience has given me a greater appreciation for the challenges many veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life. I’ve learned how important stable housing, community support and access to resources can be. The experience has reinforced my belief that strong communities are built when people invest their time and skills in helping one another.
What fascinates you about the role of AI in software engineering?
How utilizing it in solutions can optimize a person’s workflow and allow them to focus more on the creative and social aspects of their roles. This can allow people to connect with their customers on a deeper level and free up time to explore ideas they lacked the time to do before. I see AI not as a replacement for workers or developers, but as a tool that can allow people to focus more on the things they enjoy doing and on building more connections.
