David Saraiva's Blueprint as a Backend Engineer

Diversity, innovation, and excellence intertwine in the DNA of Mercedes-Benz.io. Join us as we embark on a journey to showcase the vibrant tapestry of our tribe. Through "no Blueprint for Excellence", we celebrate some of the unique paths and stories of our MB.ioneers andwhat is their blueprint — or, being a tech company, their motherboard. 😉

Check out the complete video series available on our YouTube channel!

Excellence isn’t just about what you achieve — it’s about how you inspire yourself and others along the way. For David Saraiva, a Backend Developer at Mercedes-Benz.io, excellence means giving your all to what truly matters, even when the path isn’t straightforward.

From Electronics to Software Engineering

David’s career began with an Electronics degree in Lisbon, followed by two years at Bosch in Braga. However, his true passion lay elsewhere: programming. Determined to follow this dream, he returned to Lisbon to pursue opportunities in software development. The start was far from easy.

“I spent three or four months searching for a job in Portugal without any experience in programming,” David recalls. It wasn’t until one company took a chance on him that he got his break. “All it takes is one company to believe in you.”

David spent the next seven years working in home banking solutions, but over time, he felt his growth stagnate. That’s when he discovered an opportunity at Mercedes-Benz.io.

“I remember my interview vividly. Most of my answers were, ‘I have no idea. I’ve never worked with that technology, but I’m willing to learn.’ And that was the answer they liked.”

Building, Learning, and Growing

For David, software development is like playing with Lego: “We have a lot of pieces, and we try to combine them into something that actually works.” But beyond the technical aspect, he thrives on continuous learning and personal growth.

“I set a goal to learn something new every month, and I encourage my colleagues to do the same,” he shares. “This environment, where everyone elevates each other, is what makes Mercedes-Benz.io so special. Collaboration here is incredible — we push each other to grow, and that inspires me to be a better developer.”

A Culture of Collaboration and Transparency

David appreciates Mercedes-Benz.io’s emphasis on collaboration and transparency. “The team dynamic is amazing. Everyone is eager to help, and that creates an environment worth holding onto,” he says. His critical mindset and curiosity drive his contributions, and he remains honest and transparent in his approach to work.

One of David’s fondest memories at Mercedes-Benz.io comes from the early days. “We worked in a different space back then — it had dim lighting, and all 20 of us shared a single table. It was almost like a romantic dinner,” he recalls with a smile. “That sense of togetherness is something I’ll always cherish.”

Finding Balance Through Solo Board Gaming

Outside work, David disconnects from the digital world through solo board gaming, a hobby he picked up last year. “It helps me recharge and focus,” he says. “I may still listen to music, but it’s a great way to clear my mind and enjoy the moment.”

David’s Blueprint

David’s journey underscores the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and continuous growth. His blueprint for excellence is simple yet powerful: give your best to what you care about, inspire those around you, and never stop learning.

Join the Journey of Excellence

Thank you for reading about this episode of no Blueprint for Excellence. Each story shared here is a glimpse into the mindset and dedication that drive our Mercedes-Benz.ioneers to innovate, create, and excel. If you're inspired by these journeys, we invite you to explore the full video series on our YouTube channel, where we bring these conversations to life with the people behind the stories.

Stay connected, stay inspired, and continue the journey with us!