Tag Archives: Life at Google

A new podcast explores the unseen world of data centers

Do you ever wonder where it all comes from? The words you’re reading right now, the music you stream or the program your kids use to do their homework? All that stuff can’t be just floating around in space ... can it? The internet has to live somewhere, right? 

Right. Every click you make online reaches across vast distances to retrieve information from racks of powerful computers inside some of the most secure buildings in the world. And then whatever you’re seeking appears in an instant. Even for the people who keep the machines running, the process feels like nothing short of magic. These buildings—where the Internet lives—are called data centers. Each data center exists in a real place, operated by real people in communities like Bridgeport, Alabama and Changhua County, Taiwan.

An animated GIF showing the logo of Where the Internet Lives.

Even at Google, only about one percent of employees ever get to set foot inside a data center. So to demystify these warehouse-scale computing facilities, a small team of Googlers and I spent the last year exploring them. Through the process, we got to know the people who design, build, operate and secure these buildings. We connected with outside experts and community members whose lives intersect with this infrastructure that keeps the digital economy moving. And today, we’re releasing the result of all this work: a new six-episode podcast called Where the Internet Lives.

As you listen, you’ll get a rare glimpse behind the walls and through multiple layers of security, literally going inside the machines that power the internet, guided by the people who keep them humming.

Along the way, you’ll learn how data centers work, what they mean to the communities that host them, the reasons data centers are some of the most secure buildings in the world and how efforts to operate data centers on 24/7 clean energy are transforming electrical grids across the globe.

Subscribe to the podcast now to be transported—at nearly the speed of light—to Where the Internet Lives. 

Click through the images below to read episode descriptions and take a peek at the engineering marvels that are today’s data centers.

  • A photograph of the interior of a data center.

    Nearly five billion people use the internet, but how many could tell you where it lives? In episode one, we explore what data centers are—and how they keep the internet going, even when events like COVID-19 trigger historic surges in traffic. 

  • A Google employee working inside a data center with a laptop and headphones.

    Data centers are some of the most secure buildings on the planet. In episode two, we invite you to step inside and take a tour with one of Google’s top engineers. As we venture into computer systems that connect the world, we meet the people who keep these warehouse-scale machines running. Plus, a little-known story about the scrappy origins of Google’s first computers. 

  • A photo taken from the air of a Google data center, showing multiple large buildings.

    How do data centers intersect with the communities they call home? What kinds of jobs do they create, and what do residents think of having a big computer in their backyard? In episode three, we hear what happens when the industrial economy meets the digital economy in communities across the globe. 

  • An aerial photograph of solar panels as part of an electrical power plant.

    What would it take to run data centers on clean electricity, everywhere, every hour of the day? In episode four, we look at the evolution of data center energy use in a world confronting the threat of climate change—and explore promising ideas that could fuel a carbon-free future. 

  • A photograph showing multiple security gates outside a Google data center.

    Power outages? Hurricanes? Wildfires? Zombies? Google’s data centers have to keep operating in even the most unexpected of circumstances. In episode five, we meet the security and operations experts responsible for the multi-layered systems that keep the internet secure. 

  • Google and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai stands near quantum computing equipment.

    For 50 years, computer performance has improved exponentially while the cost of computing has plummeted. But this phenomenal “Moore’s Law” trend has begun to slow down. What does it mean for data centers and what lies ahead? In our final episode, we peer into the future of technology—from machine learning to quantum computing—and explore the next chapter in the story of the physical internet.

From interviewing to starting at Google, all virtually

Welcome to the latest edition of “My Path to Google,” where we talk to Googlers, interns and alumni about how they got to Google, what their roles are like and even some tips on how to prepare for interviews.

Today’s post is all about Krithika Ramanarayanan, head of business insights for online partners. Krithika’s experience with Google has been completely virtual, as she only joined the company six months ago. She shares what it’s been like to interview and start at Google during a pandemic and how she’s gotten to know her team and Google’s culture, all without stepping foot into an office. 

What’s your role at Google?

I am head of business insights for the Online Partnerships Group (OPG) based in Dublin, Ireland. I lead the core analyst team which supports data-driven business decisions and market trend investigations. We work with sales, product and leadership teams to help online publishers grow their businesses and in turn achieve our vision—fund the world's information by enabling content creators. 

What inspires you to come in (virtually) every day?

It’s been six months since I joined Google. Initially it was unusual not meeting people, and having a 2-year-old at home meant joining a lot of introduction calls with him running around in the background. But the virtual onboarding process for Google was structured in a way that made me feel supported during my journey as a “Noogler.”

The best advice I got from my manager at that time was to get to know the products and the business whenever there were opportunities to do so. That helped me to hit the ground running once I started working with the team on projects. I’m curious by nature and learning something new every day about OPG or in the wider Google community keeps me motivated. 

I am also a data geek. I enjoy the challenge of translating analysis into actions for the business. As we often say in the PI team, the best analysts are masters at bridging the gap from numbers to actions and making it understandable.

Set of four photos of Krithika, her husband, and their toddler posing indoors in front of a Christmas tree. The family wear matching pajamas that read, “Mama bear,” and “Papa Bear.”

Krithika: “Our attempt at getting a family holiday card this year. #ToddlerLife”

How did the application and interview process go for you?

I was very excited about this opportunity as it seemed a natural fit for my talents and career progression. After I applied, a recruiter reached out to me for an informal chat.

The process was quite straightforward and really pleasant. My recruiter and I still catch up for a coffee chat every few weeks, and that's something I really appreciate as they still make the time for me. I had a couple of phone chats with people from the OPG team and then the interviews, which to be honest were nothing like what the internet led me to believe. I really enjoyed the discussion, as that's what the interviews felt like. 

For anyone interested in or going through Google’s interview process, I’d definitely recommend checking out the new interviewing at Google page of the careers site.

What do you wish you’d known when you started the process? 

I would have loved to have known more about just how supportive Google is. Whether it relates to physical health, mental health, career progression or relocation, Google will work with you to help you achieve the work-life balance that works for you. The training, talks and virtual meetups within Google have allowed me to pursue new areas of interest and grow in new ways I hadn't considered before.

How have you forged new contacts and relationships while working remotely?

By hosting lots and lots of Google Meet calls, and not hesitating to ask whoever you meet to recommend three more people to talk to next. I try to make those conversations about getting to know Google and getting to know the person I am speaking with.

What advice would you give to someone considering starting at Google right now?

If the role matches your interests, career experience and skill set, don't be put off by the idea of starting remotely at first. Google has made massive efforts to ensure the process is smooth and fun. The teams and people you interact with from day one will ensure that your onboarding process is a rewarding, welcoming experience.

Patrick Schilling advocates for people with disabilities

Welcome to the latest edition of “My Path to Google,” where we talk to Googlers, interns and alumni about how they got to Google, what their roles are like and even some tips on how to prepare for interviews.

Today’s post is all about Patrick Schilling, a Strategic Deal Manager on the Google Cloud team. In addition to helping big companies use Google technology to get ready for the future, Patrick uses what he’s learned through his experience breaking barriers to advocate for people with disabilities and create a more inclusive society.

What’s your role at Google?

I’m a Strategic Deal Manager on the Google Cloud team. I help our sales and professional services teams manage the largest strategic partnerships that Google Cloud enters with customers in Europe and the Middle East. What´s particularly inspiring about my job is to see our clients, some of whom are the largest, most traditional enterprises in the world, embark on their digital transformations.

How did you begin advocating on behalf of people with disabilities?

I was born and raised in the city of Tuttlingen in Southern Germany. Since birth, I have lived with a physical disability (shortened arms and legs), which posed a variety of challenges to my family in my early years and teens. Overcoming these challenges, continuously growing as a person and sharing my experiences to empower others has become one of the key motivators of my life. 

I became the first person in my family to ever attend university. Along the way, my family and I broke through a variety of challenges and hurdles, such as being the first person with a disability to ever attend my German high school. I experienced both severe societal injustice and an extraordinary commitment aimed at remedying it. After high school, I involved myself in local and state politics in Germany. I founded several organizations that lobbied on behalf of people with disabilities. In that function, I started doing speaking engagements focused on how political and technological progress can create an ever more inclusive society.

Patrick poses with a multicolored hat given to new Googlers at orientation. In the background are other new Googlers with their hats.

Patrick at Noogler (new Googler) orientation.

What led you to apply to Google?

I pursued a double degree in international management and business administration, which allowed me to study for two years at ESB Business School in Germany, and two years at NC State University. During that time I interned in Germany and the U.S., primarily  for technology and tech consulting companies. It was during one of those internships that I met people from Google. Their drive to challenge the status quo, their desire to not take no as an answer and their commitment to a diverse, equitable and inclusive society inspired me to apply.

Patrick’s speech at NC State University’s 2018 spring commencement ceremony.
10:25

Patrick’s speech at NC State University’s 2018 spring commencement ceremony.

What inspires you to come in (or log on) every day? 

Seeing how the world´s largest organizations transform and get fit for the digital age is breathtaking. So is seeing how excited our clients get about the seemingly endless capabilities that groundbreaking technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning offer to grow their businesses and better serve their customers.

How did the application and interview process go for you?

The recruitment process was both challenging and inspiring at the same time. I was still on the U.S. West Coast at the time, interviewing for a position in Europe. While my recruiters did their best to accommodate for the time zone differences, it still meant waking up at 6 a.m., hastily downing 3 shots of espresso and then getting into interview mode. 

Throughout all my interviews, the people I met reassured me that this is the company I would love to work for. Google has a policy in place that allows you to self-disclose any special needs you may have due to a disability. When I self-disclosed, both the recruiter and the hiring manager made absolutely sure to provide me with all accommodations needed to set me up for success. 

Can you tell us about the resources you used to prepare for your interview or role?

The most important thing is to familiarize yourself with the resources available on Google´s career site. This will help you get ready for your role and set you up for success. In addition, I would encourage all applicants to reach out and speak to current Googlers. We are here to help you get ready and it is our pleasure to share our experiences.  

Do you have any tips you’d like to share with aspiring Googlers? 

Be yourself and bring all of it to your interviews! This is a place where it doesn't matter who you are, or where you come from or what you look like. You can make it here at Google, if you are willing to try.

Patrick Schilling advocates for people with disabilities

Welcome to the latest edition of “My Path to Google,” where we talk to Googlers, interns and alumni about how they got to Google, what their roles are like and even some tips on how to prepare for interviews.

Today’s post is all about Patrick Schilling, a Strategic Deal Manager on the Google Cloud team. In addition to helping big companies use Google technology to get ready for the future, Patrick uses what he’s learned through his experience breaking barriers to advocate for people with disabilities and create a more inclusive society.

What’s your role at Google?

I’m a Strategic Deal Manager on the Google Cloud team. I help our sales and professional services teams manage the largest strategic partnerships that Google Cloud enters with customers in Europe and the Middle East. What´s particularly inspiring about my job is to see our clients, some of whom are the largest, most traditional enterprises in the world, embark on their digital transformations.

How did you begin advocating on behalf of people with disabilities?

I was born and raised in the city of Tuttlingen in Southern Germany. Since birth, I have lived with a physical disability (shortened arms and legs), which posed a variety of challenges to my family in my early years and teens. Overcoming these challenges, continuously growing as a person and sharing my experiences to empower others has become one of the key motivators of my life. 

I became the first person in my family to ever attend university. Along the way, my family and I broke through a variety of challenges and hurdles, such as being the first person with a disability to ever attend my German high school. I experienced both severe societal injustice and an extraordinary commitment aimed at remedying it. After high school, I involved myself in local and state politics in Germany. I founded several organizations that lobbied on behalf of people with disabilities. In that function, I started doing speaking engagements focused on how political and technological progress can create an ever more inclusive society.

Patrick poses with a multicolored hat given to new Googlers at orientation. In the background are other new Googlers with their hats.

Patrick at Noogler (new Googler) orientation.

What led you to apply to Google?

I pursued a double degree in international management and business administration, which allowed me to study for two years at ESB Business School in Germany, and two years at NC State University. During that time I interned in Germany and the U.S., primarily  for technology and tech consulting companies. It was during one of those internships that I met people from Google. Their drive to challenge the status quo, their desire to not take no as an answer and their commitment to a diverse, equitable and inclusive society inspired me to apply.

Patrick’s speech at NC State University’s 2018 spring commencement ceremony.
10:25

Patrick’s speech at NC State University’s 2018 spring commencement ceremony.

What inspires you to come in (or log on) every day? 

Seeing how the world´s largest organizations transform and get fit for the digital age is breathtaking. So is seeing how excited our clients get about the seemingly endless capabilities that groundbreaking technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning offer to grow their businesses and better serve their customers.

How did the application and interview process go for you?

The recruitment process was both challenging and inspiring at the same time. I was still on the U.S. West Coast at the time, interviewing for a position in Europe. While my recruiters did their best to accommodate for the time zone differences, it still meant waking up at 6 a.m., hastily downing 3 shots of espresso and then getting into interview mode. 

Throughout all my interviews, the people I met reassured me that this is the company I would love to work for. Google has a policy in place that allows you to self-disclose any special needs you may have due to a disability. When I self-disclosed, both the recruiter and the hiring manager made absolutely sure to provide me with all accommodations needed to set me up for success. 

Can you tell us about the resources you used to prepare for your interview or role?

The most important thing is to familiarize yourself with the resources available on Google´s career site. This will help you get ready for your role and set you up for success. In addition, I would encourage all applicants to reach out and speak to current Googlers. We are here to help you get ready and it is our pleasure to share our experiences.  

Do you have any tips you’d like to share with aspiring Googlers? 

Be yourself and bring all of it to your interviews! This is a place where it doesn't matter who you are, or where you come from or what you look like. You can make it here at Google, if you are willing to try.

Combining technology and art as a Developer Advocate

Welcome to the latest edition of “My Path to Google,” where we talk to Googlers, interns and alumni about how they got to Google, what their roles are like and even some tips on how to prepare for interviews.

Today’s post is all about Priyanka Vergadia, who followed her curiosity and stumbled upon a role that combines her technical and artistic skills: creating technical learning content for Google Cloud developers as a Developer Advocate.

What’s the best thing about being a Developer Advocate at Google? 

This role challenges me with new technologies every day and allows me to think creatively about learning novel concepts and explaining them to a wide range of people. I get to interact with the developer community and create content that can help them learn about Google Cloud. I create tutorials for the Google Cloud Youtube channel, write blogs, codelabs and sample code and speak at conferences. 

Currently I’m working on the concept of visual learning. I created the GCP Sketchnotes series, in which I explain the Google Cloud tools in the form of a sketch. The idea is to be able to print the sketchnote or use it as a desktop or phone wallpaper to learn quickly. You can check them out at the cloudgirl.dev.

Example from the GCP Sketchnotes series created by Priyanka. At the top of the cartoon-style page is the title "Where should I run my stuff?...it depends" followed by comparisons of the pros and cons of the different options, which are: Compute Engine, Kubernetes Engine, Cloud Run, App Engine and Cloud Function.

An example from the GCP Sketchnotes series.

What first sparked your interest in technology? 

I am from Indore, a city in central India. My parents are my role models: My dad is an engineer and his work inspired me to be an engineer, and my mom is an artist and her creativity and confidence continues to inspire me in everything I do.  

I studied electronics and telecommunication with a bit of programming during my undergraduate course work. Due to my growing interest in coding, I decided to pursue a masters from University of Pennsylvania in computers and information science. After graduating, I had my eye on becoming a software engineer. 


What eventually led you to becoming a Developer Advocate?

My first job was as a quality engineer, which allowed me to explore the industry a bit more. Customer engineering caught my eye. I took a risk and decided to change course, working with customers and applying my technical skills to solving real business problems. 

That was a turning point for me because I had stumbled on something that I really loved. I was able to combine my creative skills to create compelling presentations, demos and code samples that would help developers learn specific products better. That love of solving problems with technology led me to exploring the Developer Advocate role, and I am absolutely loving it!


Priyanka in her work-from-home studio, which includes a lighting and camera setup, desk and display shelf of potted plants.

Priyanka’s work-from-home studio, where she records YouTube videos for the Google Cloud Platform channel.

What was it like to apply to Google?

I applied right after school and did not make it past the phone interview. After that experience I had imposter syndrome. Then about 4.5 years later a recruiter from Google reached out to me. I was not really looking for a new job at the time. But I went into the process with an open mind because I found that this time the role was right for me and the skills I had acquired over the years aligned perfectly to the position. After the first phone interview my hopes started to grow because I really liked the role. 

What's one thing you wish you could go back and tell yourself before applying?

I wish I knew that Google is not just looking for coding gurus. The search is for people who can think analytically and solve problems. The interview questions are more focused on getting to know your thought process and how you get to a solution. Knowing this would have made me worry much less. 

What inspires you to come in (or log on) every day? 

I am inspired by the people I get to collaborate with and the impact I get to make by working on products that touch millions of lives.

Combining technology and art as a Developer Advocate

Welcome to the latest edition of “My Path to Google,” where we talk to Googlers, interns and alumni about how they got to Google, what their roles are like and even some tips on how to prepare for interviews.

Today’s post is all about Priyanka Vergadia, who followed her curiosity and stumbled upon a role that combines her technical and artistic skills: creating technical learning content for Google Cloud developers as a Developer Advocate.

What’s the best thing about being a Developer Advocate at Google? 

This role challenges me with new technologies every day and allows me to think creatively about learning novel concepts and explaining them to a wide range of people. I get to interact with the developer community and create content that can help them learn about Google Cloud. I create tutorials for the Google Cloud Youtube channel, write blogs, codelabs and sample code and speak at conferences. 

Currently I’m working on the concept of visual learning. I created the GCP Sketchnotes series, in which I explain the Google Cloud tools in the form of a sketch. The idea is to be able to print the sketchnote or use it as a desktop or phone wallpaper to learn quickly. You can check them out at the cloudgirl.dev.

Example from the GCP Sketchnotes series created by Priyanka. At the top of the cartoon-style page is the title "Where should I run my stuff?...it depends" followed by comparisons of the pros and cons of the different options, which are: Compute Engine, Kubernetes Engine, Cloud Run, App Engine and Cloud Function.

An example from the GCP Sketchnotes series.

What first sparked your interest in technology? 

I am from Indore, a city in central India. My parents are my role models: My dad is an engineer and his work inspired me to be an engineer, and my mom is an artist and her creativity and confidence continues to inspire me in everything I do.  

I studied electronics and telecommunication with a bit of programming during my undergraduate course work. Due to my growing interest in coding, I decided to pursue a masters from University of Pennsylvania in computers and information science. After graduating, I had my eye on becoming a software engineer. 


What eventually led you to becoming a Developer Advocate?

My first job was as a quality engineer, which allowed me to explore the industry a bit more. Customer engineering caught my eye. I took a risk and decided to change course, working with customers and applying my technical skills to solving real business problems. 

That was a turning point for me because I had stumbled on something that I really loved. I was able to combine my creative skills to create compelling presentations, demos and code samples that would help developers learn specific products better. That love of solving problems with technology led me to exploring the Developer Advocate role, and I am absolutely loving it!


Priyanka in her work-from-home studio, which includes a lighting and camera setup, desk and display shelf of potted plants.

Priyanka’s work-from-home studio, where she records YouTube videos for the Google Cloud Platform channel.

What was it like to apply to Google?

I applied right after school and did not make it past the phone interview. After that experience I had imposter syndrome. Then about 4.5 years later a recruiter from Google reached out to me. I was not really looking for a new job at the time. But I went into the process with an open mind because I found that this time the role was right for me and the skills I had acquired over the years aligned perfectly to the position. After the first phone interview my hopes started to grow because I really liked the role. 

What's one thing you wish you could go back and tell yourself before applying?

I wish I knew that Google is not just looking for coding gurus. The search is for people who can think analytically and solve problems. The interview questions are more focused on getting to know your thought process and how you get to a solution. Knowing this would have made me worry much less. 

What inspires you to come in (or log on) every day? 

I am inspired by the people I get to collaborate with and the impact I get to make by working on products that touch millions of lives.

Inside the Cloud Technical Residency with Tony Rodriguez

Welcome to the latest edition of “My Path to Google,” where we talk to Googlers, interns and alumni about how they got to Google, what their roles are like and even some tips on how to prepare for interviews.

Today’s post is all about Tony Rodriguez, a Technical Solutions Engineer in Austin who started at Google in our Cloud Technical Residency (CTR), a one-year rotational program for recent college graduates. (If you’re interested in applying, the CTR program is now accepting applications for 2021.)

Can you tell us more about your roles at Google?

As of July 2020, I am officially now a Technical Solutions Engineer (TSE) in Google Cloud. Prior to becoming a TSE, I was a part of the Cloud Technical Residency Program, a rotational program aimed to provide students who have recently graduated with both technical and client facing skills. The program is 12 months long, with three months of training and rotations in three separate Google Cloud organizations.

Throughout each rotation I increased my technical knowledge of Google Cloud products. First, as a Technical Account Manager I managed relationships and major projects for Google Cloud Platform (GCP) customers, then, as a Strategic Cloud Engineer I helped architect/build solutions for customers, and finally, as a Technical Solutions Engineer, I supported our products and worked with product teams on improving them.

Coming straight out of college and not being certain of what I wanted to do, this program was incredible. I got to explore three amazing roles and get a taste of what the day to day looked like for each. The fact that I went through it with a cohort of 25 amazing individuals, also helped make it a smooth transition out of college. 

Group of individuals in front of large balloons letters reading "CTR".

Tony and his CTR cohort during their initial training.

Have you always been interested in tech?

I was born in San Luis Potosi, Mexico but grew up in the Atlanta area. Growing up, I always had a passion for technology and knew I wanted to pursue something in the tech field. I thank my parents for teaching me that hard work and determination pays off but also for being understanding everytime I broke the computer! I’m the first person in my family to graduate from college; I studied computer science at the University of Georgia. (Go Dawgs!)

You applied to Google twice. Can you tell us about that experience?

The idea of applying to Google was initially scary, because I feared rejection. I got denied the first time when I applied for a software engineering internship my junior year of college, but I received helpful constructive feedback and worked hard that year towards preparing for a second shot if given the opportunity. 

I applied again a year later for a software engineering role and at the beginning of the process, I told my recruiter that the past year had opened my eyes. I learned there are more positions in tech than just software engineering. Because of that conversation, I was informed about a new program that Google had started the past year and how it was a great opportunity for new college graduates to explore other roles available in tech. 

I decided to give it a go and from that point forward I was in the process for applying to become a CTR. The process overall was super smooth and consisted of both technical interviews and interviews focused on non-technical skills like problem solving, project management and leadership.

I’ll never forget the day when my recruiter, Suzie, told me I got the job. I was hesitant about moving to a new city where I didn’t know anyone, but I can say that by far, it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made and has helped me grow as a person.

Tony standing in front of the 360 bridge in Austin.

Tony explores the city of Austin.

Anything you wish you’d known before your interviews?

I remember being super nervous the first time and feared asking questions. But every interviewer I talked to told me they do not expect you to give the most optimal solution from the beginning; instead, they want to hear your thought process. They encourage you to ask questions to clear up any misunderstandings, because that helps you move towards a final solution. 

Can you tell us about the resources you used to prepare for your interview or the CTR role?

I reviewed the materials my recruiters provided me multiple times (a new helpful resource is the CTR Careers on Air series). I also reached out to my professors to help me refresh my knowledge of web technologies and fundamental computing concepts. If you’re not familiar with the cloud like I was and want to see how enterprise companies are using it today, I recommend checking out the Google Cloud Blog.

Do you have any tips you’d like to share with aspiring Googlers?

Never give up! I never thought I'd be working at Google and I wish I gave myself more credit to begin with. Don't be intimidated to apply and put yourself out there.

Bickey Russell finds inspiration from his native Bangladesh

Welcome to the latest edition of “My Path to Google,” where we talk to Googlers, interns and alumni about how they got to Google, what their roles are like and even some tips on how to prepare for interviews.


Having spent his childhood between London, Milan and Dhaka, Bangladesh, Bickey Russell began his career at Google in sales before pursuing his passion for developing technology to serve under-resourced communities. Today, he’s the founder and leader of Kormo Jobs. Guided by Google's commitment to our AI Principles, Bickey and his team are helping job seekers across Bangladesh, Indonesia, and India find meaningful work. 


What’s your role at Google?

I founded the Kormo Jobs app and currently lead global product operations for it as well as some other new projects in the Next Billion Users initiative at Google.


I drive Kormo Jobs’ go-to-market approach. This involves things like working with employers to use Kormo Jobs to post openings on our platform and building up a community of job seekers who get value from Kormo Jobs as they look for work and grow their careers.

Students holding up pamphlets about Kormo

Participants at a vocational training institute in Jakarta learning about Kormo.

You’ve held a few different roles in multiple offices. How did you end up working on Kormo Jobs? 

I’m super passionate about the positive impact technology can have on society in countries like my native Bangladesh. Throughout my career at Google I have moved from business analysis to sales, partnerships management and leadership roles, and worked in London, Mountain View and currently, Singapore. Despite all that change, I have always been involved with initiatives to make Google products work better in Bangladesh—ranging from Maps to Bangla language capabilities. 


In 2016, I was fortunate to be able to collaborate with colleagues and pitch an app idea I had to Google’s internal innovation incubator, Area 120. We were hoping to use machine learning to build a better way to help people in Bangladesh get jobs in more blue-collar sectors. Our small team was fortunate to join the Area 120 program, and after just three years, our app became a Google product. Kormo Jobs is live in Bangladesh, India and Indonesia. 

And what were you up to before joining Google?

I grew up in London, Milan and Dhaka, spending middle school and high school  in Dhaka before returning to London for university where I did a degree in geography.

I worked in retail throughout my time in university. The highlight was probably selling band t-shirts in Camden Market! My first full-time job was working as a researcher, and then as a business analyst. 

Can you tell us about your decision to apply to Google?

I was fascinated by the Internet, and I wanted to join a fast-paced company that has an entrepreneurial and open working culture. Google’s vision was majorly inspiring and so attractive to me at the time, and it still is. I felt that if I could join a company like that, I could make an impact.

I applied via the Google careers page. The interview day was quite nerve-wracking, but actually a lot of fun. I remember talking a lot about my interest in cricket, plus my favorite websites and Google products. I was also asked to propose a plan on how we might develop the market for Google AdWords in the UK for a particular industry. That was a challenge, but I guess I did okay!

Bickey presenting on a large stage with a display of the Kormo app on a screen behind him.

Bickey presenting the Kormo app at a Google India event.

Can you tell us about the resources you used to prepare for your interview or role?

I didn’t know anyone who worked at Google at the time, but since I knew the job was to join the advertising business in the UK, I reached out and talked to a lot of my network in the advertising and media space to prepare. Plus, I used Search to do research!


Do you have any tips you’d like to share with aspiring Googlers?

I would say that aspiring Googlers should really think about why they are interested in the specific role they are applying for. I often interview candidates who are keen to work at Google but haven’t done enough preparation on why they would be a good fit for the role and team that they have applied to join.

Bickey working with an employer using Kormo.

Bickey working with an employer using Kormo.

What inspires you to log in every day?

Having been at the company a long time, I’ve seen firsthand countless times the impact technology can have on people and society at large.


I am inspired by the fact that Google’s AI Principles guide us to make socially beneficial AI systems—and that I get to work with an amazing team at Kormo Jobs to put this principle into practice every day. We invest in applying our tech capability to solving important problems—finding work, earning money, building a career—to people in places like my home town of Dhaka.


Every day I get excited when I see that we’ve helped more people get a job than we did the day before.

What veterans can bring to the business world

2019 Google for Startups networking event for Veterans and Military Spouses at the American Underground in Durham, NC. Photo by Erin Bell of Bull City Photography.

For veterans, the transition from military life to the workforce can be tricky. I know how crucial it is to offer support, because I’ve been there myself. It's not that I doubted my abilities, but after eight years as a Navy officer, I quite literally did not know what my options were in the professional world.

Kevin Ryan stands, looking into the camera and smiling, wearing his military dress jacket with a white button-up shit and black bow tie.

Kevin Ryan

Thankfully, I was fortunate to land in a challenging role with a ton of support at Google. Even still, I remember feeling completely overwhelmed during my first two weeks before realizing when I had felt just as lost before: My first time on a submarine. When I first struggled to get my bearings on a ship, I taught myself to focus on the task at hand and get the job done. 

Similarly, when I first started out in tech I didn’t necessarily know what program management or technical operations entailed, but I did know how to take absolute ownership over a specific assignment. These skills might have different names in the military and civilian worlds, but they do translate—and American businesses can benefit from this kind of tactical experience.

Veterans are uniquely qualified to tackle the challenges of building a company. We have the ability to handle uncertainty, face challenges with grit and perseverance, work collaboratively in a mission-focused and results-oriented manner, communicate clearly and lead effectively—all key attributes for aspiring entrepreneurs. I’ve seen this firsthand not only in my current role as Network Deployment Manager at  Google Fiber, but as a VetNet mentor at Atlas.

Based down the street from me in Durham at Google for Startups tech hub American Underground, Atlas helps guide the military community in life beyond the uniform through opportunities in education, employment training and entrepreneurship. I’ve loved bringing Google resources to help Atlas attract talent and assist transitioning service members with resumes and job-seeking advice.

And we want to discover what more we can do to help veterans pursue entrepreneurship. Google for Startups recently teamed up with Endeavor Research to learn more about the current state of veteran entrepreneurship in the United States. After speaking with industry leaders, startup ecosystem experts and the military community, we found that veterans face specific challenges when starting and growing a business—namely, access to capital and  networking opportunities. 

Sixty percent of veteran-owned businesses experienced a financing shortfall, compared to 52 percent of  businesses not owned by veterans. Part of this is because building the right types of networks in the business world can be a complicated process for veterans; they tend to have strong networks in the military community, but weaker civilian professional ties. We want to help change that, and our research surfaced four clear ways we can better support veteran entrepreneurs in our communities: 

  1. Focus on building highly curated connections to help veterans navigate the civilian business world.

  2. Build awareness of the value of veteran entrepreneurship and recognize the diverse needs of founders within this group.

  3. Assist veterans in securing professional and educational experiences that better prepare them for startups and growing a business. 

  4. Provide dedicated support to help veterans navigate financial challenges and secure capital. 

To put these findings to work and help veterans build the strong networks they need to succeed as entrepreneurs, we’re launching a three-month Google for Startups Fellowship for veterans in partnership with Atlas. The fellowship will match cohorts of transitioning service members at a startup in the Google for Startups Partner Network where, in addition to their fellowship work, they'll receive invites to educational workshops, mentorship and support from Google mentors like myself. Transitioning Service Members within 180 days of separation who meet the eligibility requirements of the DOD Skillbridge program can participate in the Google for Startups Fellowship. Interested candidates can learn more and apply for the Fellowship at www.atlas.vet/fellowship.

I’m extremely proud to be a part of this effort, and to know that Google prioritizes veterans like myself. These Google for Startups fellowships provide the crucial exposure veterans need to find their sea legs in the corporate world—and to prove that the transitioning military community has so much valuable knowledge, talent and experience to contribute. As one of my Atlas mentees, a U.S. Army veteran, pointed out: ”Soldiers don’t settle for less. Everyone needs that in business—a person who sees an issue and has the confidence to fix it.”

What veterans can bring to the business world

2019 Google for Startups networking event for Veterans and Military Spouses at the American Underground in Durham, NC. Photo by Erin Bell of Bull City Photography.

For veterans, the transition from military life to the workforce can be tricky. I know how crucial it is to offer support, because I’ve been there myself. It's not that I doubted my abilities, but after eight years as a Navy officer, I quite literally did not know what my options were in the professional world.

Kevin Ryan stands, looking into the camera and smiling, wearing his military dress jacket with a white button-up shit and black bow tie.

Kevin Ryan

Thankfully, I was fortunate to land in a challenging role with a ton of support at Google. Even still, I remember feeling completely overwhelmed during my first two weeks before realizing when I had felt just as lost before: My first time on a submarine. When I first struggled to get my bearings on a ship, I taught myself to focus on the task at hand and get the job done. 

Similarly, when I first started out in tech I didn’t necessarily know what program management or technical operations entailed, but I did know how to take absolute ownership over a specific assignment. These skills might have different names in the military and civilian worlds, but they do translate—and American businesses can benefit from this kind of tactical experience.

Veterans are uniquely qualified to tackle the challenges of building a company. We have the ability to handle uncertainty, face challenges with grit and perseverance, work collaboratively in a mission-focused and results-oriented manner, communicate clearly and lead effectively—all key attributes for aspiring entrepreneurs. I’ve seen this firsthand not only in my current role as Network Deployment Manager at  Google Fiber, but as a VetNet mentor at Atlas.

Based down the street from me in Durham at Google for Startups tech hub American Underground, Atlas helps guide the military community in life beyond the uniform through opportunities in education, employment training and entrepreneurship. I’ve loved bringing Google resources to help Atlas attract talent and assist transitioning service members with resumes and job-seeking advice.

And we want to discover what more we can do to help veterans pursue entrepreneurship. Google for Startups recently teamed up with Endeavor Research to learn more about the current state of veteran entrepreneurship in the United States. After speaking with industry leaders, startup ecosystem experts and the military community, we found that veterans face specific challenges when starting and growing a business—namely, access to capital and  networking opportunities. 

Sixty percent of veteran-owned businesses experienced a financing shortfall, compared to 52 percent of  businesses not owned by veterans. Part of this is because building the right types of networks in the business world can be a complicated process for veterans; they tend to have strong networks in the military community, but weaker civilian professional ties. We want to help change that, and our research surfaced four clear ways we can better support veteran entrepreneurs in our communities: 

  1. Focus on building highly curated connections to help veterans navigate the civilian business world.

  2. Build awareness of the value of veteran entrepreneurship and recognize the diverse needs of founders within this group.

  3. Assist veterans in securing professional and educational experiences that better prepare them for startups and growing a business. 

  4. Provide dedicated support to help veterans navigate financial challenges and secure capital. 

To put these findings to work and help veterans build the strong networks they need to succeed as entrepreneurs, we’re launching a three-month Google for Startups Fellowship for veterans in partnership with Atlas. The fellowship will match cohorts of transitioning service members at a startup in the Google for Startups Partner Network where, in addition to their fellowship work, they'll receive invites to educational workshops, mentorship and support from Google mentors like myself. Transitioning Service Members within 180 days of separation who meet the eligibility requirements of the DOD Skillbridge program can participate in the Google for Startups Fellowship. Interested candidates can learn more and apply for the Fellowship at www.atlas.vet/fellowship.

I’m extremely proud to be a part of this effort, and to know that Google prioritizes veterans like myself. These Google for Startups fellowships provide the crucial exposure veterans need to find their sea legs in the corporate world—and to prove that the transitioning military community has so much valuable knowledge, talent and experience to contribute. As one of my Atlas mentees, a U.S. Army veteran, pointed out: ”Soldiers don’t settle for less. Everyone needs that in business—a person who sees an issue and has the confidence to fix it.”