Employee Spotlight: Jessica Brady, Senior Full Stack Developer

Keywords: Employee, Spotlight, Talent, Team, Developer, Engineer

Read time: 5 minutes

We’re excited to introduce our second employee spotlight with Senior Full Stack Developer Jessica Brady. She has been with RedCAT Systems since 2023 and is a huge advocate for building culture in a remote environment. 

How did you get into software development work? 

My interest started during my time in biotech as a bench scientist. In this role I helped to program a liquid-handling robot that automated processes for our colorectal cancer detection product. I then became a science teacher, leading classes in robotics and computer science. These experiences made me want to get into software development. 

What would you say to someone who is looking to make a career change?

Anything new is challenging at first. If you truly want to make the leap, you absolutely can—no matter your age or background. Embracing a growth mindset is key. It helps you realize that with focus and effort, you can achieve anything. I firmly believe in the power of neuroplasticity—your brain’s ability to adapt and grow—to build new habits and reach your goals.

What is the most valuable thing you have learned through your career? 

That it’s OK to feel vulnerable and ask for help. There will come a time when your teammates need your help and you’ll have the chance to return the favor. This cycle of support creates a positive and healthy team environment.

Equally important is showing appreciation for your teammates. A simple gesture of kindness or a few words of gratitude can go a long way. We never truly know what someone else might be going through. The best teams are those where everyone lifts each other up, working together to achieve both big and small goals. As my dad used to write in all my school folders, “Teamwork makes winning easy.”

How do you build community in a remote-first environment?

A simple “hello” can lead to a great conversation, and I’ve learned so much from connecting with people in other departments. I also enjoy participating in group activities. These moments help me form friendships and stronger bonds with my coworkers. 

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? 

I enjoy exploring the Rocky Mountains. I map out my own routes and challenge myself to complete them. You can often spot me on the trail with my bright red backpack crouched in awkward positions to photograph the incredible beauty around me.

I also really like to ski. My favorite type is fast groomers (zoom, zoom!) and powdery tree runs after a big snowstorm.

Plus, to live up to my nerdy stereotype, I relax by playing video games on my Nintendo Switch and the computer I built. I also really enjoy spending time with my cats. 

Do you have any funny stories from your time as a teacher? 

One memorable moment happened while teaching high school biology. 

A student asked if Cheetos grew on trees. That question really hit me – it inspired me to start a plant-growing section in the biology department.

We set up a makeshift greenhouse, and the students were thrilled to learn where food actually comes from. They loved watching their plants grow—cotyledons sprouting, roots forming, and tiny leaves appearing. Seeing their smiles as they enjoyed the “fruits” (and veggies) of their labor was fun.

Thank you, Jessica, for taking the time to walk down memory lane with us! 

Be on the lookout for our next Employee Spotlight in January.