Get to Know Our Crew: Genie

Discover what it’s like to be part of the crew at Zoox! We are proud to introduce some of our talented crew and provide an insider look into what it’s like to work at Zoox. 

What do you do here at Zoox?

I am a Motion Planning Software Engineer on the Planning & Control team, specializing in agent interactions. My role focuses on improving our vehicle’s behavior around other entities. I design and develop features and algorithms that enhance the behavior of our vehicle, for example, ensuring appropriate yielding or safe passing and comfortable pick-up and drop-off.

How did you find your career in the AV industry?

I’ve been interested in autonomous vehicles since college. I briefly worked on a startup idea during my junior year to automate commercial trucks. I then joined Apple as a product designer but realized that I wanted to return to the AV space to work on revolutionizing how people move around. That’s how I made my way to the Planning & Control team at Zoox five years ago.

How do you hope to make an impact in this space?

I loved being a designer. I found joy in perfecting the look and feel of things one can enjoy and own, however, I came to realize that my passion lies in contributing to the product development in various capacities, not just in the form of design. Zoox has and continues to be a product-driven company. I hope to make a dent in the industry by shaping and influencing our AV motion with the team. I truly believe this is a technology we can work on today that will revolutionize how we live tomorrow.

What is a day in your life as a Software Engineer like?

It really depends on the day but a more structured day may go like this: I start the day by scrolling through Slack messages, followed by writing out a to-do list for the day, and carrying over analyzing simulations I may have launched the day before. It usually takes me a bulk of the morning to respond to or support discussions or look into issues on Slack threads and conduct test analysis. On days where there aren’t too many meetings, I walk or bike along Embarcadero to our San Francisco office. A majority of the development work takes place in the afternoon or evening. I go to meetings and engage in offline discussions that require contact switching throughout the day.

What excites you about the future of Zoox?

Revolutionizing transportation doesn’t just mean getting from point A to point B, but a new venue to spend time alone or with others. I think Zoox vehicles could be made to “hangout” in. Why not “book a Zoox” for a meeting while you get to your destinations similar to booking a conference room? 

Another thing that excites me is changing how people perceive distance. For example, visiting family and friends, road trips, long distance relationships, and so forth. We no longer need to think about getting off work early or avoiding rush hour to get to a dinner. Taking a Zoox can be a continuation of the work day and once you are at your destination the evening plans can begin.

What is your favorite feature of the Zoox robotaxi and why?

Bidirectionality. Having been a part of the bidi work group, bidirectionally holds a special place in my heart. 

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?

I enjoy walking around the city, browsing shops, going to the farmers market on weekends, and trying new recipes! I often have wine nights with friends, check out new restaurants, and occasionally go on fishing trips. I’ve been trying to get into golfing but lost touch with it recently. Hope to get back into it soon!