The Get to Know series is back after taking a break for the summer!
Today, we're excited to introduce you to Drew Foglia, a Distinguished Software Developer in the JMP LifeSciences group.
On the job
Drew is a developer focusing on the JMP Clinical product. His typical day involves a mix of tasks, including triaging and implementing bug fixes and features, assisting customers with deployment and integration issues, and helping teammates with JSL techniques to improve performance. He also works with the DevOps teams to ensure the JMP Clinical build process aligns with the rest of JMP.
Drew's journey into technology began early. "I've known what I've wanted to do since I was 12 years old," Drew said. His father, an electrical engineer, introduced him to a Commodore VIC-20 in 1981, sparking a lifelong fascination with computers. "I was instantly fascinated by this machine, its graphics capabilities, and the BASIC language that enabled me to draw shapes/images and create sounds," he said. He continued to build his skills with the Commodore-64 and the Commodore Amiga. He graduated with a BS in Computer Science from North Carolina State University in 1990 and worked at Intergraph before joining SAS in 1996 and moving to JMP in 2014.
Drew (far right) with his family at the beach.One of Drew's favorite projects at JMP was building an object-oriented framework in JSL. He saw the potential of namespaces and, after discussions with Distinguished Research Statistician Developer Joseph Morgan (@JosephMorgan), developed a system using simple techniques with expressions. "It was very interesting to effectively build an object-oriented language from just the building blocks," Drew said. More recently, he has enjoyed working on the Patient Profiler and Subpopulation Builder in JMP Clinical and leveraging the Python integration within JMP.
When asked about his favorite thing about working at JMP, Drew emphasized the people and customers. "I believe we truly have partnerships within JMP and with our customers," he said. "Everyone is committed not only to making the best products we can make but using these products and our collective knowledge and experiences to solve problems." He feels this collaborative spirit is a direct result of the culture set by John Sall.
For those starting in his field, Drew advises, "Stay curious and keep flexing the critical thinking skills." He believes that while AI is having a significant impact, critical thinking and fostering relationships will be the key differentiators for success.
As a representative of the JMP brand, Drew identifies most with being Approachable.
On the side
Drew is the drummer in a band.Outside of work, Drew is passionate about music. He is a drummer in a couple of local indie and rock bands. "I love artistic expressions of all kinds and creating music with bandmates is very fulfilling," he said. You can listen to his band on Spotify here.
After a long day, Drew unwinds by spending time with his family and friends, biking or hiking in the woods, attending or playing live music, and enjoying great meals.
Connect with Drew on LinkedIn!
