Behind the Code: Marcello’s Journey as a Senior Software Engineer and Mentor at OpenProject

At OpenProject, our mission is to create tools that empower teams to collaborate and succeed. But what truly makes OpenProject special is the people who bring this vision to life. In this installment of our Culture Series, we’re thrilled to introduce Marcello, a senior software engineer whose passion for open source and teamwork is at the heart of what we do.

Marcello’s journey into tech is anything but ordinary — starting as a veterinarian and eventually transitioning into software development, his path reflects the curiosity and resilience that define OpenProject’s culture. In this interview, Marcello shares insights into his role, his love for open source, and the moments that make working at OpenProject so fulfilling. From crafting integrations to fostering team collaboration, Marcello’s story offers a glimpse into the dedication and innovation driving our team.

Dive into the conversation to learn more about Marcello’s work, his philosophy on tech, and what makes OpenProject a place where passion meets purpose.

What is your role at OpenProject, and what are your day-to-day responsibilities?

I’m a senior software engineer at OpenProject. My main focus is on files, file storage, and computer-to-computer communication—essentially the ‘plumbing’ that supports our features. It’s the kind of work that users may not directly see, but it’s critical to making the system function smoothly.

Can you tell us about the tech stack you work with?

We use Ruby for the backend, and my main tools are RubyMine and the terminal. I occasionally collaborate with other teams, like operations, but most of my time is spent in these tools, which are like my power tools for coding.

How long have you been in tech, and what led you to OpenProject?

I’ve been in tech for about 20 years, but my journey is unconventional—I actually trained as a veterinarian! After working in various fields, including public and private sectors in Brazil, and startups in Germany, I joined OpenProject about a year and a half ago. Despite the short time, it feels like I’ve been here forever — I truly love it.

Why do you feel so strongly about OpenProject?

OpenProject aligns with my values. It’s not about chasing world domination or massive profits. It’s about delivering meaningful, open source software that anyone can use. I’ve been an open source advocate for a long time, and being paid to work on something open source is a dream come true. It’s not just a job; it’s a labor of love.

What has been a memorable project or achievement for you at OpenProject?

I’m especially proud of our recent OneDrive integration. It was a complex project that required us to challenge long-standing assumptions about file storage and integration. Beyond the technical accomplishment, it sparked valuable discussions within our team and led to system-wide improvements, like better error messages and more comprehensive testing. These changes benefit not just us as developers, but also our users.

How does remote work impact your collaboration?

Remote work is relatively new to me. I started during the pandemic. While I enjoy working from home, as I’m a bit of a hermit, it’s clear that we lose certain subtleties, like body language. Those non-verbal cues are hard to replace, but we’re improving how we communicate through language and tone.

What sparked your love for open source?

I discovered open source nearly 30 years ago through Linux and its ecosystem. To me, software is like art — it’s imagination turned into something tangible. Open source thrives on collaboration and recognition among peers, and that’s what drew me in. Over the years, I’ve contributed to various projects, but one of my proudest contributions was to a Ruby framework called Hanami. It was challenging but incredibly rewarding.

What do you do outside of work?

I’m passionate about board games and tabletop RPGs. My wife and I host game nights with friends regularly — it’s a social event where we play, chat, and enjoy each other’s company. I’ve also loved progressive rock since my youth. Bands like Porcupine Tree and Pink Floyd are my go-to programming soundtracks.

What advice would you give to others entering tech?

Be curious and ask questions. It’s okay to challenge assumptions and seek clarity. Also, never stop learning. I’m constantly reading and revisiting materials, like Pedagogy of the Oppressed, which helps me mentor others effectively. Tech is as much about people as it is about code.

In summary

Marcello’s passion for OpenProject and open source shines through every aspect of his work and life. His unique background and dedication to collaboration make him an inspiring figure within our community. Stay tuned for more stories from the OpenProject team!