1-3. Software Engineer

1-3. Software Engineer

 

Ken: I see from your resume that you did a bachelor degreein computer science, and then a master’s in software engineering. Why is that?

 

Betty: There is a strong debate (/dɪ'bet/, 辩论) in the corporate and computer world over who is and isn’t asoftware engineer. Graduates of computer science are normally trained only toprogramme. I want to make sure that I was regarded (/rɪ'ɡɑrd/, 尊重) by everyone as a professional.

 

K: Good, because our corporation makes that distinction. Oursoftware engineers become team leaders, but programmers stay team members untilthey upgrade through more training.

 

B: That’s why I’m changing from freelancing (/'fri:'la:ns/,自由职业的) to a corporate position. Ihave enough experience to provide leadership now.

 

K: How do you feel about being part of an outsourcedproject? We’re only a branch.

 

B: I see it as a career step, and hope that yourheadquarters notice my work.

 

K: Your resume says that you’re very good at a number oflanguages: the old ones like BASIC, APL, FORTRAN and COBO – but you prefer projectsusing the C set?

 

B: Yes. To be honest, I prefer writing operating system todoing firmware or applications. However, I can do those if required.

 

K: Well, at the moment we need C+ to update a few of ourolder maintenance contracts, so we definitely need you. After that, would yoube able to do Java?

 

B: Oh yes, I’ve worked with teams who do. It’s just not my strength.

 

K: We offer ongoing training if you wish to take it, but forthe next few months we’re going to keep you pretty busy.

 

B: I trust I’ll meet your high standards.