Meet a FarrPointer - Jordi Estrada

A quick Q&A chat with Jordi Estrada

Introducing our next "Meet a FarrPointer" feature with FarrPoint GiS Consultant, (this will open in a new window)Jordi Estrada. Join us as Jordi delves into a conversation with Anna, where he answers some intriguing interview questions.

1. So you used to live in Edinburgh, but you now live in Barcelona. Tell us what is the thing you miss the most about living in Edinburgh and what is the best thing about living in Barcelona?

The thing I miss the most about Edinburgh is the people, as in my friends who still live here. I keep in touch with them, but it isn’t the same as popping to the pub after work for a pint on a Friday. Second to that I would say the city itself, Edinburgh, is one of the best cities in the world. It was a unique quality which is difficult to replicate anywhere else. It has great places to eat and all the services of a big city but with a small-town feel.

The best thing about living in Barcelona is being close to my loved ones. I live about 20 minutes from the town where I grew up and where my parents live, so it is nice to see them more often and be able to lend a hand if needed as they age.

Barcelona is a cosmopolitan city; everything you can think of is a short distance away - services, shows, and leisure facilities. I suppose the weather is “not that bad” either. (Anna rolls her eyes, way to rub it in as we sit in the office on another rainy, muggy summer day in Edinburgh)

Jordi with fellow FarrPointer Steve visiting him for a holiday in Barcelona.

2. What do you find the most interesting part of your job at FarrPoint?

The most interesting part of my role is having the chance to tackle multiple challenges and explore different problem-solving methods and approaches. The majority of our projects are different, and I would say that as a team, we are pretty good at researching new solutions and approaches. This keeps the role interesting and engaging. I am about the complete my second master's. I have been studying for 2 years at the (this will open in a new window)UNIR University to gain a master's in data science. There is a strong component of data analytics, AI and machine learning so I enjoy trying to bring that into my job and apply this knowledge. Although I do believe AI can be seen as “having a hammer, so then everything looks like a nail”. (Anna praises Jordi’s jazzy analogy but reminds Jordi we need to stay on task… next question)

3. What does a typical weekend look like for Jordi?

“Boring compared to the rest of the FarrPointers”. I enjoy going for long walks; if the weather permits, I would head to the mountains with our dog for the day or down to the beach. I am lucky to have both options near where I live. We were recently fortunate to buy a new house, so at the weekend, I will spend much time doing DIY and trips to Ikea—otherwise, just the usual weekend activities; meeting friends, going for dinner or doing sport if possible.

4. If you could have a superpower for a day, what would it be, and how would you use it?

So this is a challenging one. If it is just for one day, I would choose telekinesis, head to a casino, get on the roulette table, and make a fortune. If I could have the superpower for longer, I would choose teleportation. It would make travelling so much easier, you wouldn’t have to deal with the stress of the airport and could jump all over the world. It would also make coming into the office in Edinburgh a lot easier. I could give you lots more superpowers I would want, but I’ll stop there.

5. What is the best decision you have ever made?

I would probably say pursuing a career in data science and GIS. It has allowed me to have an interesting career so far and work on interesting projects. It also meant I didn’t have to stay behind the bar any longer. (Jordi worked as a bartender in Edinburgh for 3 years).

6. Ok, so if that was your best decision, what would be your top tip for someone wanting to pursue a similar career path?

Never stop learning! It is a very fast-paced industry; something that you learnt two years ago could be updated now, so keep reading as much as you can and stay up to date.

7. What is your go-to way to unwind and relax after a long day at work?

It is a niche, but I would play Padel. Sadly I haven’t been able to play recently because I damaged my knee, but I have my first game back next week. Many of my friends play, as it is a huge craze at the moment. My dad and I play in tournaments together, which is great fun. It is a fantastic sport and accessible for a variety of levels. I have been to watch a few professional tournaments, and the speed at which they play is incredible.

8. What has been the most memorable adventure or trip you've been on?

The one that springs to mind is a while ago was a trip to Vienna and Prague. I loved the contrast between the two cities; the grandeur of Vienna and Prague’s quirky architecture. The food and the weather at both locations were great. I have been on many trips, but that one stands out, although I haven’t travelled quite as much as many of my FarrPoint colleagues.

8. Ok, so how did you end up living in Edinburgh, then?

I was only meant to visit Edinburgh for a couple of weeks, but one thing led to another, and I stayed for nine years. During the recession, employment opportunities for those starting out in their careers weren’t great, so I thought it would be a good time to pursue a master's in Geographical Information Science that Uni of Edinburgh offered, which was a great courseI applied, and that was the start of my nine years living here.

9. Tell us about a unique talent or skill you possess that your co-workers might not know about.

I am a fully qualified basketball coach. I grew up playing basketball and played for a club for fourteen years. Basketball or football were the two main sports in Spain at the time and although I now prefer watching football at the time I really enjoyed basketball. I made many great friends during this period of my life through the club. So yeah, I have a certification to coach an under-18 club team.

10. If you were stranded on a deserted island and could only have three items with you, what would they be and why?

I’m going to be boring here and be sensible and go Bear Grylls style. I would take a Swiss Army knife, a good book on botanicals so I would know what to forage, and perhaps, a water filter or something to make fire… hmmm, actually, I think I might swap the book for something to make a fire with. Many things are going through my head, but I will stick to the basics.

11. Who would you like to nominate for the next “Meet a FarrPointer”?

James.

Interested in working at FarrPoint?

We are always interested in speaking with good people who would like to pursue a career at FarrPoint, visit our careers page or drop us an email with your CV to [email protected].