From Brazil to Weert: Why Karine Chose a Software Engineer Career at AT-Automation

In this article

• A Curious Mind Drawn to Technology
• Making an Impact Through Technology
• Culture of Growth, Support, and Belonging
• Navigating Tech as a Woman
• Building a New Life — One Word at a Time
• Why AT-Automation Is a Great Place to Grow
• Want to join a team where your growth really matters?

When Karine first moved to Portugal from Brazil in search of better opportunities in tech, she never imagined her journey would lead her to a thriving career in software engineering in Weert, the Netherlands. Now, as a valued member of the AT-Automation team, Karine is not only mastering new technologies — she’s also building a life in a country where she feels truly welcomed and empowered.

Her story is one of curiosity, perseverance, and growth — and a great example of what’s possible when talent meets opportunity in the right environment.

A Curious Mind Drawn to Technology

Karine’s fascination with computers started early. “Since I was a teenager, I was always curious about how things worked — how computers worked, how the processes happened behind the scenes,” she says. That natural curiosity eventually led her to pursue a degree in computer science and information systems, which she began in Portugal and continued in the Netherlands.

But her passion for automation was sparked by something more specific. “I’ve always been fascinated by machines, robots, and all these futuristic subjects. The automation field just made sense to me — it’s a space where imagination meets logic, and that really excited me.”

This drive to understand systems and improve processes now fuels her day-to-day work at AT-Automation, where she develops smart software solutions for the industrial sector.

Making an Impact Through Technology

As a software engineer at AT-Automation, Karine works on designing and building solutions that optimize industrial processes — often before the client is even aware of a bottleneck.

“Sometimes it’s not even a problem yet,” she explains. “It’s just something that could be improved. My job is to spot those things and find ways to make them better and faster.”

Recently, she worked on the Vezet project, where she helped implement smart automation solutions tailored to the client’s needs. That experience was both technically challenging and rewarding — and now, she’s begun a new project, bringing fresh energy and ideas to a different industrial environment.

Her toolkit includes Ignition software, Python, SQL, and a working knowledge of Jython — all crucial for navigating databases and automating complex tasks. But for Karine, the real excitement comes from solving those small daily challenges. “Every time I fix a script or figure something out on my own, it’s such a good feeling. You really feel like you’re growing with each step.”

Culture of Growth, Support, and Belonging

Moving countries is never easy, but Karine found something special in the Netherlands — a sense of acceptance that had been missing elsewhere. “I felt more welcome here than I ever did in Portugal,” she reflects. “In the Netherlands, people are really open to immigrants. They respect you, and they give you space.”

That openness extends into the workplace at AT-Automation. “It’s the best team I’ve ever had,” she says with a smile. “Everyone is helpful. The managers want to know how you feel, what you need, and what your goals are. That’s important — it makes you feel valuable.”

It’s not just about encouragement, either. Karine points to regular feedback, mentorship, and learning opportunities as key parts of her development. “Since day one, they’ve challenged me. But every time I succeed, they’re right there saying, ‘Good job, this is exactly what we want from you.’ That kind of recognition motivates you to keep going.”

She believes the company truly lives its mission to “Master Your Growth.” “I see it in every step. They don’t just say it — they breathe it. It’s not just about individual growth, it’s about growing together with the company.”

Navigating Tech as a Woman

Being a woman in a male-dominated field can be daunting, but Karine views it as an opportunity. “It’s different and challenging — but in a good way. It takes you out of your comfort zone. You have to think differently, and that’s how you grow.”

In Brazil, she says, opportunities for women in tech are still limited. “There’s a lot of pressure and outdated thinking — for example, the belief that if a woman becomes pregnant, she may no longer be seen as fully committed or capable of contributing. Here, I don’t feel that at all. Everyone is welcome. There’s respect and equal opportunity for everyone.”

Karine’s advice to other women considering a similar path? “Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. If it’s really what you want, just go for it — no matter what people say. Do it for yourself.”

She also believes companies can do more to attract women to tech roles. “Be more open. Don’t make assumptions in job ads. Just leave the role open, and if a woman applies, make her feel welcome and respected. Onboarding is especially important — it’s where that feeling starts.”

Building a New Life — One Word at a Time

Outside of work, Karine is committed to integrating into Dutch society. She’s been learning the language through classes, reading children’s books, and even listening to her favorite Dutch band, Suzan & Freek. “I try to practice every day. An e-reader helps a lot because I can instantly translate words I don’t know. But having a real teacher made a huge difference in my progress.”

Even though she’s only been in the Netherlands for a year and a half, she’s already noticed how far she’s come — and how much further she wants to go.

“In five years, I want to be a senior software engineer, a specialist in Ignition, and someone my team can count on. I want to be someone that others can look up to — like colleagues Bart, Joeri and Bas, who have been here for years. I admire them so much.”

Why AT-Automation Is a Great Place to Grow

For Karine, what sets AT-Automation apart is its unique mix of technical challenge, supportive culture, and real opportunity. “Here, you’re challenged a lot — but never judged. You’re allowed to make mistakes and grow from them. If you want to improve in a certain area, they’ll help you get there.”

She also values the sense of purpose that comes with her work. “It’s not just coding. It’s helping real companies improve and work more efficiently. That’s exciting.”

And while she’s still finding her place in a new country, Karine is confident she’s on the right path — and in the right company.

Want to join a team where your growth really matters?

Check out software engineer vacancies at AT-Automation and discover how far you can go.