From grad to Junior Application Developer Meet Elena
Meet Elena Velikichevska, a Junior Application Developer in our ICT Application Design, Development and Integration team. Elena works with our customers across the WA health system to design and develop web applications and websites to enable them to better communicate with their patients and the WA community.
Elena began her journey with HSS as a graduate in 2020 through the WA Health Graduate Development Program.
She first completed a four-month placement in our ICT Security and Risk Management Team where she helped with the cyber security uplift initiative.
“Working from home and communicating online during the COVID-19 pandemic were the most challenging parts of the placement,” Elena reflected.
“Despite the challenges, I had the chance to learn about a framework for web applications and apply this knowledge to the project I worked on.”
During her second placement, Elena had the opportunity to work with our ICT Application Design, Development and Integration
It was with this team that she found a strong interest in application development. Here she was able to get involved with building new websites and assisted with the creation of Virtual Clinic System (VCS) questionnaires to improve communication between clinicians and patients resulting in better care.
She was also involved in expanding the use of PowerApps across the business, ongoing website and SharePoint Online support, and the remediation of Access Applications as part of our HealthNext ICT Program.
“What I enjoyed most about the work was the exposure to a wide range of technology,” Elena said.
“I feel lucky I had the opportunity to learn so much from experienced professional developers and gain knowledge in new technologies including Sitecore, SharePoint and PowerApps.
“Not to mention, everyone in the team was friendly and open to assist me despite their busy schedules.
“It was also nice to see that even though each of us in the team came from different backgrounds, and had different ideas and experiences, we all worked together collaboratively to make a difference for our customers.”
It was during her second placement that a new opportunity for a Junior Application Developer role became available at HSS.
“I was familiar with the work and culture of the team and knew they aligned well with my future career goals, so I applied for the position,” she said.
“I still had to undergo a competitive recruitment process and thankfully I was successful and have been working in the role for the past 6 months.”
Elena adds that being able to learn and grow on a daily basis and apply this knowledge to the web solutions she provides our customers is the best part of her job.
“I am looking forward to being part of future projects that will enable me to progress my career and make a difference for the wider WA community,” she said.
HSS is a proud sponsor of three graduates every year, under the WA Health Graduate Development Program.
Interested in the 2022 WA Health Graduate Development Program? View the Department of Health website for information about the Program, recruitment dates and selection process.