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Interview with Andy Bagner, SWRemote Software Support Representative II 
AS: How long have you been working at Algonquin Studios?
AB: I've been with Algonquin Studios for 16 months.
AS: Tell us about your education/previous employment background.
AB: I'm a "Jack of all trades, Master of none" type of guy. I went to SUNY Farmingdale, Suffolk County Community College, and ITT Tech and had an array of majors including Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Computer Graphics, and Network Technology. I hold an Associate's Degree in Network Technology.
I've held many different jobs, some all at once! I started with Goodyear Tire Company, went on to FedEx, and also towed cars for a major towing company on Long Island. I had a brief stint with Wal-Mart, working in their Tire and Lube section, and had also worked in the Heating and Cooling Industry for many years prior to joining Algonquin Studios.
AS: What project(s) are you currently working on for Algonquin Studios and SWRemote? What project have you enjoyed most during your employment here?
AB: I'm currently working on three major projects. The majority of my time is devoted to SWRemote's Mobile Technician. The other two projects picking up steam are our new release for Annie Unplugged, which is a call-taking software, and the Customer Portal, which allows customers to book online appointments for certain industry-specific jobs like Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing etc.
I've really enjoyed working on Mobile Technician because I used to be an HVAC Tech, so I know what it's like to be on the "other side" of the phone line. I feel that I can relate with the techs in a way that helps them work through some of the difficulties they might have to deal with on a day-to-day basis.
AS: What's your favorite aspect of working at Algonquin/SWRemote or working on the project(s) you're currently involved in?
AB: It's certainly the relationships I'm able to develop with our clients, both owners of the businesses and the techs out in the field. When I'm able to find out what issues they're having, get them moving in the right direction and make them feel as if they've received a more personal experience than a common "call-center" type of support, it definitely makes my job worthwhile and very enjoyable. Another thing that cannot go unsaid is the fact that my co-workers that have been extremely helpful and never deny me any help, no matter what the task might be.
AS: What do you do when you're not helping clients use our products and software?
AB: I spend most of my time out of work enjoying it with my family and friends. I'm an avid camper and a huge NASCAR fan. I hope to one day own a race team, probably on a lower tier of racing, and be lucky enough to be a driver, as well.
AS: Tell us something about yourself that might surprise your co-workers or our clients.
AB: I used to volunteer for a fire department on Long Island and was extremely fortunate to obtain a "CPR Save" award for reviving and saving the life of a six week old, premature baby who went into cardiac arrest while riding in our ambulance. That experience was easily the most satisfying and rewarding thing I've ever done.
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