Meet Matt Kruger – Embedded Software Team

At Punch Through, we encourage everyone to proudly be themselves and want you to know the people behind the work that we’re so proud of. That’s why we launched our “Meet the Team” series, where we introduce you to one of our team members each month. 

Meet Matt, a senior embedded software engineer who specializes in firmware design, development, testing, and debugging. In his spare time, he enjoys home improvement projects, playing video games with his son, watching movies, and bird-watching at his cabin up North on the lake.

What were you doing before working at Punch Through?

I have a BS in Computer Engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (a pilot school dabbling in engineering). Before coming to Punch Through, I worked at Xirgo doing embedded firmware work for asset tracking of fleet vehicles and semi trucks.

I was looking for a change, saw some opportunities on LinkedIn, and thought Punch Through looked like a good place to work.

What is your favorite thing about Punch Through culture?

As far as culture goes, my favorite aspects would have to be how the company protects its engineers and its focus on the work-life balance. It was a huge draw for me. Punch Through is an engineering company, made by engineers for engineers, and they understand that we can get exploited. Not doing that is rare and odd, and the people here are great. The only thing I can say is that I’ve been working remotely, so I’m looking forward to meeting people in person, and I haven’t yet enjoyed all of the social aspects. But even through remote work, there is a sense of family, camaraderie, and a great atmosphere.

Tell me a story about your most memorable moment while working at Punch Through

Since I haven’t been in the office, there is an asterisk (*thus far) next to the most memorable moment at Punch Through. I have had a lot of fun on our Zoom calls and Slack channels. I look forward to being able to talk more about in-person experiences in the future.

Thus far, the most memorable moments was my final interview with Mike and Erin at a park. That interview in and of itself was what made me decide to come here. The charm, the passion that Mike showed, that really sold me on the company.

What cool or rewarding things do you get to do on a regular basis?

I get to solve puzzles. That’s all I ever wanted to do as an engineer. Documentation is the price of solving puzzles. I get to solve puzzles that help customers. Wow. And solving puzzles that help customers AND make a difference in the medical industry, amazing.

What is the most valuable part of your work to you on a personal level?

Stretching my brain and creativity to solve new and interesting problems. It’s what I’m paid to do, which brings the company value. Personally, it keeps my mind sharp (don’t wanna lose it in my old age), and if I’m not motivated and stimulated throughout the day, days drag on, and so far, that hasn’t happened. 

What is different about Punch Through versus other places you have worked?

The way that we really value work-life balance and the mental health of the team. It’s the most important thing, the well-being of the people. It’s very rare, and I haven’t seen that come all the way from the top at any other companies.