Joining the Tribe: How It All Started and How It’s Going Now

The first months at a new company are often filled with challenges, excitement, and plenty of learning. At Mercedes-Benz.io, we’ve had the privilege of following our new joiners as they navigate their early days and grow into their roles. In this post, we’re sharing insights from two MB.ioneers who’ve been with us for a year or two. We revisit their experiences from when they were just starting, then take a look at how things are going for them now. From flexible work environments to incredible peers — their words, not ours — their stories give a real glimpse into what it's like to be a part of the tribe.

Sofia's Journey: From Intern to Frontend Developer

How it Started

Sofia Hinckel Dias joined Mercedes-Benz.io as an intern in July 2023, but her journey quickly evolved. Now a full-time Frontend Developer, her first six months were filled with growth, challenges, and invaluable learning experiences.

It was incredibly intense (...) I’ve learned so much, working with two different teams — first as an intern, and now as a full-time Frontend Developer.

For Sofia, the most rewarding part of her time so far has been the people she’s met along the way.

I’ve had the chance to work with amazing people, and I learn something new from them every day. I'm also encouraged to share my own thoughts and ideas, which really fosters a sense of teamwork. It feels like a privilege to work with such a talented group, and I’m proud to contribute to making our product better. When you feel that way, you know you’re in the right place.

How it's Going

Sofia’s journey at Mercedes-Benz.io has been one of continuous growth. As a Frontend Developer, she has expanded her skill set, adapted to the fast-paced tech environment, and embraced collaboration with an inspiring team.

Such a dynamic and inspiring place motivates me to keep moving forward, and I strive to be as positive and supportive to the community as they are to me. :) The last year has been truly life-changing — it's hard to believe, especially since I used to work as an architect, planning buildings! It’s been a huge change, and all of it was made possible in an environment that is genuinely open to knowledge.

For Sofia, the highlight of her journey so far has been the combination of teamwork and continuous learning. “Creating products and gaining hands-on experience in projects with global impact has been incredibly rewarding.”

Vivian's Take: Creative Freedom and Work-Life Balance

How it Started

Vivian Pontes, our Information Security Architect, has been a part of the tribe since November 2023 and has made a significant impact. For her, the combination of challenging projects, creative freedom, and a great work-life balance has made all the difference.

“Spoiler alert: It’s amazing,” she says, highlighting how welcoming the team was, making her feel at home from day one. “The people are fantastic. Everyone’s incredibly friendly, and I felt right at home from my first day. The best part of my job is the flexibility I have to approach projects in my own way and the ability to work from home. This flexibility really helps me maintain a healthy work-life balance.”

Alongside the flexibility, Vivian praises the exciting and challenging projects she’s had the opportunity to work on.

The projects here are both challenging and exciting, and Mercedes-Benz.io encourages continuous professional development. I’m constantly learning and growing, and that’s something I really appreciate.

How it's Going

Since joining Mercedes-Benz.io, Vivian's journey has been one of significant growth and personal development. Early months were filled with learning, but she found freedom in presenting ideas and working at her own pace. As she shares, “These months have been a lot of learning, but also of feeling free to present ideas and work at my own pace, which is undoubtedly rewarding.” Despite her challenges with formal interactions, the supportive team environment helped her feel comfortable and confident. A standout moment in her experience has been the encouragement she received to grow her skills, culminating in the attainment of the CISSP certification.

I feel embraced by the teams I work with, and them embracing my ideas and implementing them has undoubtedly been incredible.

Along the way, her team has supported her through both her professional and personal challenges, making her journey at the company both fulfilling and empowering.

From New Joiners to Thriving MB.ioneers

The first months at Mercedes-Benz.io are more than just an introduction to a new role — they’re a foundation for growth, learning, and connection. Sofia and Vivian began their respective journeys filled with curiosity and excitement, and their experiences have only deepened over time.

From navigating new challenges to forming strong bonds with their teams, they’ve shown how the right environment can turn uncertainty into opportunity. Whether you’re considering joining the tribe or are already part of it, these reflections remind us that every new beginning is the start of something amazing.