From Fixing Broken Things to Fixing Business Problems: Anthony Edeh’s #Switch Story

Three words that describe you Adaptable, Ambitious and Special.

Explain your job to a 5-year-old. People buy the tools they use to run their businesses from Interswitch. I teach those people how to put the tools to use. I also assist in fixing the tools when the users experience any challenges while using them.

Tell us about your career journey. What made you switch to tech?

I studied Mechanical Engineering at the university. My penchant for fixing things when I was much younger led me there. Fixing broken or faulty things came easy to me, I also found it fun. Funny enough, at first, I wanted to study Pharmacy at the university. But I didn't get accepted to study that course. It was at that point that I decided to study Engineering which came naturally to me. I got in on my first try.

After graduating from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, I participated in two Engineering Internship programs between 2019 and 2020. I also took one short-term program in 2021 on Automobile Engineering. All these experiences helped hone my skills in creative problem-solving.

While at the University, I became increasingly interested in the tech industry's potential to drive innovation and solve problems. I was particularly fascinated by how technology was transforming the way businesses operate and interact with customers. I decided at that point to take up online courses in web development, design, and engineering drawings. These self-development activities gradually carved a path for me in the industry.

Today, I work as a Service Management Executive having interned as a Point of Sale (POS) Service Engineer. In my former role, I combined my understanding of projects and technical expertise with service delivery. I aim to continue growing in this field, eventually moving into a role where I can lead projects that bridge the gap between tech and business strategy. I am thrilled about the vast possibilities in this industry and how I can contribute and improve solutions that make a difference.

How did you get into The Switch?

I got into The Switch during my National Youth Service year as a Corps Member. Recruiters from Interswitch came to the orientation camp that year to talk about opportunities at The Switch. After that encounter with them, I remember registering online. But I didn't stop at that though, I also physically dropped off my CV and posting letter at the head office in Lagos. Afterwards, I received an invitation for my first interview. Eventually, I got an internship offer for the duration of my Youth Service, and after my service ended, I got retained to work as a full-time employee.

What has been your most memorable day at The Switch?

It must be the first day I stepped into The Switch as a new hire. It was so wholesome.

Tell us about something you’ve done at The Switch that makes you proud.

I recently organized a team that submitted a game-changing idea for the upcoming Interswitch Technovation Hackathon. I’m looking forward to winning the competition alongside my team.

What’s something you wish you knew earlier in your career/life?

That I had the capability to learn and do more than I thought I could.

Besides work, what are your hobbies?

I love to play video games and watch sports, mostly football, basketball, and UFC. I also love listening to oldies music and reading self-development books.

How have you been able to create a work/life balance?

Honestly, it’s still a bit of a struggle for me now, but I try to create time and have fun outside of work when I can.

What would you be doing if you were not currently doing what you do?

I think I would be fully practising Mechanical Engineering in the Oil and Gas industry.