Linnea: Growing from strength to strength

Linnea Springare is a consultant and developer in Sweden, leading a team of developers and enjoying the variety of assignments that come with working with a large government client. As the mother of two children with special needs, she values CGI’s emphasis on health, well-being and work flexibility. When she isn’t upskilling to keep pace with advances in technology, she enjoys strength training and powerlifting. 

Nice meeting you, Linnea! Tell us about how you got started at CGI.

I joined in August 2023 after being referred by a friend. My friend spoke very highly of CGI, and it seemed like a great company and an opportunity for us to work together again. I did some research on CGI and had the opportunity to visit the office before deciding to join. It really looked like a great place to work! 

Tell us about the work you do. What keeps you busy in your day-to-day?  

I am a Java developer and lead a team of developers—comprising both CGI Partners and client employees—serving a Swedish government client. We work closely with our client, collaborating on different types of projects. One of the reasons I find my job fulfilling is that there is a lot of variety in the work I do, which keeps things interesting.

That sounds like a role that requires you to stay current with the latest technology. With IT evolving so quickly, how do you regularly improve your skills and knowledge? 

CGI has been instrumental in my professional growth. During breaks between assignments, I invest significant time in my development, not just in technical training but also in areas like cybersecurity, AI, and human development. CGI Academia, our internal training platform, has been a game-changer for me. It's a comprehensive resource that I highly recommend to my team members. It also reflects CGI’s commitment to ensuring everyone has access to grow their skills and careers through learning and development. 

Do you find CGI has been supportive in your journey so far? 

Absolutely. First, the ownership culture at CGI is inspiring. We are all CGI Partners, and we truly have a voice in the company through our various programs. This fosters a strong bond as colleagues; we are transparent with one another, and everyone feels comfortable being themselves, creating a supportive and inclusive work environment.  

Also, my leader understands the importance of work-life balance. I have children with special needs, so it’s important for me to have supportive and understanding colleagues. I have a flexible schedule, which allows me to arrive at the office before 6 a.m. It’s very early, but this is when I get the most work done. I’m able to fully focus before anyone else arrives.

Since I start early, I’m able to finish earlier. I prioritize this time in my day to go to the gym for strength training and powerlifting. I even take part in competitions to challenge myself. I’ve won a few medals since I started in 2017. In March 2024, I took home the gold for bench press in the Swedish championships—an accomplishment I am very proud of.

Congratulations! That’s an impressive feat. How did you get into powerlifting, and what do you like about it?

My father did strength training and trained at a gym. I accompanied him one day a few years ago, and I was hooked. I loved the energy and the fun atmosphere, so I joined a neighborhood gym. It’s a challenging sport that requires lots of focus. I totally disconnect when I train. For me, it’s the best form of self-care. 

My journey in powerlifting has taught me the importance of being driven and structured in life and in my work.

With my busy life at work and at home, I need to prioritize my health and self-care to enjoy a balanced life. All my friends are at the gym; we’ve built a real community there. 

I am deeply committed to inspiring and supporting women in strength sports. I can’t emphasize enough how important exercise is for one’s physical and mental health. However busy your schedule is, you can make time for exercise.

Thank you, Linnea, for sharing your career story, and good luck in future powerlifting competitions!

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