Anastasiia Slyvka came to Niagara College looking for a way to move from the hospitality industry to a high-tech field.
The changeover presented some learning challenges, but Slyvka persevered, leaning on her passion in frontend development and knowing that a tech-focused career was in her future.
Drawn to NC’s Computer Programming and Analysis (Co-op) Program because of the emphasis it places on practical skills, Slyvka said she knew she’d get the hands-on learning she’d need to succeed in a technology-driven world.
“My primary goal was to transition from the hospitality industry into a technology-focused career, specifically in frontend development,” said Slyvka, who’s originally from Kyiv, Ukraine. “As I progressed through the program and gained more hands-on experience – particularly in UI/UX design – my interest in making user interfaces more intuitive and visually appealing deepened. This exposure solidified my passion and directed my career aspirations more specifically towards UI/UX specialization within frontend development.”
Her co-op placement at the Walker Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Centre (WAMIC) at the Welland Campus further reinforced her aspirations. As a research assistant with WAMIC, she focused on developing virtual reality applications for the company using the video game development tool Unreal Engine.
It was there she was also introduced to SoilOptix, a company that provides advanced soil mapping solutions to farmers so they can optimize field management through high-tech sensors and detailed soil sample analysis.
“This role was pivotal in enhancing my practical skills and seamlessly integrating academic knowledge with real-world tech applications,” Slyvka said. “Additionally, it significantly improved my communication, meeting, and collaboration skills, as I worked closely with a team of developers.”
Slyvka has since transitioned into a full-time role as a frontend developer at SoilOptix, where she ensures the company’s applications are both functional and visually appealing.
“I am particularly passionate about the aesthetic aspects of design, which I believe are essential for creating engaging and effective user interfaces,” she said. “I have played a key role in redesigning and enhancing our internal application by developing reusable React components, creating a custom CSS library, and implementing new features. Additionally, I am expanding my expertise into backend development. I value working alongside a dedicated team of developers, all of whom are fellow Niagara College graduates.”
Looking back at the last three years, it’s clear to Slyvka that a well-rounded college experience set her up for a promising future. In addition to in-class learning and her co-op placement at SoilOptix, she stayed active in extracurriculars, such as the Women in Tech club and a leadership program, both of which expanded her leadership and networking skills. She volunteered at open house events, too, and served as a judge for the District School Board of Niagara’s coding competition.
“At Niagara College, I not only gained technical skills but also developed a deep appreciation for community involvement and teamwork,” she said. “Being a part of various clubs and activities helped me build a supportive network and improved my leadership abilities. These experiences have been fundamental in shaping my approach to work and life, emphasizing the importance of resilience and continuous learning.”
And as technology continues to evolve, Slyvka said she’s excited about all the new and challenging ways she can apply her skills. Her long-term goal is to pursue a master’s degree so she can further specialize in the field.
“I’m also committed to encouraging more women to enter and thrive in the tech sector, reflecting the inspiration and support I received from the Women in Tech club at Niagara College,” she said.
