How Jeffrey Became a Senior Data Engineer at Trend Micro | Interview Query

At Interview Query, we’re always excited to share stories of career transitions and success in the tech industry. Today, we’re featuring Jeffrey Li, who successfully transitioned from mechanical engineering to become a senior data engineer at Trend Micro, a leading cybersecurity company. His journey showcases how dedication to learning, combined with the right preparation resources, can lead to success in the competitive field of data engineering.

Jeffrey’s story begins with a master’s degree in mechanical engineering and initial work experience in that field. However, his curiosity and interest in data led him to make a bold career change. “I decide to transition my career development from mechanical engineer to data engineer,” Jeffrey explains. He approached this transition methodically, starting with self-learning through various platforms.

“I learned the fundamental computer science from YouTube and went to computer science development in university,” Jeffrey shares. He supplemented this with online courses from Coursera to build his foundation in programming and SQL. This combination of formal and self-directed learning proved crucial in his career transition.

After establishing his foundation, Jeffrey’s career in data engineering took off. He started at a tech company before gaining valuable experience in fintech and martech. His career reached new heights when he joined Agoda in Bangkok as a senior data architect, demonstrating an impressive progression in just a few years.

“I decided to have a self breakthrough to challenge myself and started to do an overseas job search,” Jeffrey recalls about his time before joining Agoda. This willingness to step out of his comfort zone and work internationally added valuable perspective to his professional experience.

When preparing for his next career move, Jeffrey took a comprehensive approach to interview preparation. “I decided to review the fundamentals of data structures and algorithm and master the programming language, Python and SQL proficiency, including the concepts of system design and the clean code principles,” he explains.

Jeffrey utilized multiple platforms in his preparation but found Interview Query particularly valuable for data engineering interviews. “I think the Interview Query platform is the best platform to practice the related coding skills such as Python programming and SQL,” he shares. He particularly appreciated that Interview Query’s questions were tailored specifically to data roles.

The interview process at Trend Micro was comprehensive, consisting of multiple rounds:

1. Initial screening with a recruiter
2. Technical assessment with SQL problems
3. First technical interview focusing on system design and handling large-scale data
4. Second technical interview with KQL (Kusto Query Language) problems
5. Third round discussing Azure and Databricks technologies
6. Final HR interview covering behavioral questions

One unique aspect of the process was the requirement to learn KQL, Microsoft’s query language for Azure. “I just spent two days to learn this new language KQL and successfully write down my answers on whiteboards,” Jeffrey recalls, demonstrating his ability to quickly adapt and learn new technologies.

Jeffrey found Interview Query’s platform particularly helpful in his preparation. He specifically mentions how the platform helped him focus on both SQL and Python programming, which were crucial for his interviews. The ability to submit solutions and engage in discussions through comments provided valuable learning opportunities.

“I subscribe the interview query and because I subscript the interview query I can efficiently submit my solution and have the chance to submit my comments in each questions,” Jeffrey explains. He particularly appreciated the community aspect, where different solutions to the same problem could be shared and discussed.

Based on Jeffrey’s experience, here are key takeaways for other candidates:

• Focus on fundamentals: Data structures, algorithms, and SQL are crucial
• Be ready to learn new technologies quickly (like Jeffrey did with KQL)
• Use targeted platforms like Interview Query’s company guides for specific company preparation
• Don’t hesitate to transition careers if you have the passion and dedication
• Consider using AI Interview practice to prepare for technical interviews

Jeffrey Li’s journey from mechanical engineering to senior data engineering at Trend Micro demonstrates that with the right preparation and resources, successful career transitions are possible. His story highlights the importance of strong fundamentals, continuous learning, and proper interview preparation.

If you’re preparing for data engineering interviews, Interview Query offers comprehensive resources, including company-specific interview guides, practice questions, and expert coaching to help you succeed in your journey.

Read More Success Stories:

• Success Story: Acing the Senior Data Scientist Interview at Intuit
• Keerthan’s Path to Data Science
• Hoda’s Career Transition Success
• Alma’s Data Journey
• Simran’s Success Story