• Web Developer
  • Bachelor of Computer Science
  • Former Technical Event Production Pro

Juan
Sebastian
Covarrubias

I’m Juan, a web developer at Iltalehti, Finland’s largest digital news platform, where I build solutions that impact 3+ million weekly users. My journey from technical event production to software development has given me a unique perspective on delivering high-quality results under pressure while managing complex technical requirements.

As I pursue my Master’s in Computer Science at the University of Helsinki, I’m actively building full-stack capabilities, diving deeper into backend technologies like Node.js, Express.js, and Ruby to complement my front-end expertise. Drawing on my project management and team leadership background from event production, I’m working toward managerial roles where I can combine technical knowledge with people leadership. I’m also an experienced speaker, presenting at company events and engineering demos.

So, how do I do things?

1. Big picture in mind

I see how each technical task connects to broader project goals, ensuring that even small decisions align with the overall vision and timeline.

2. Embrace the vibes

Software development is the one field where we can responsibly use AI to its fullest. I work AI-first, continuously experimenting with emerging tools to boost productivity.

3. Lift while you climb

Growth means nothing if it’s solo. I mentor upcoming developers, share knowledge through presentations, and believe the best solutions come from elevating the entire team.

Some of the tech I've worked with

  • React

  • TypeScript

  • Node.js

  • Express

  • Astro

  • Sass

  • Redux

  • React Router

  • Storybook

  • Figma

  • Swift

Here's where I've left my mark...

Web Developer

Alma Media

May 2023 - Present

I develop digital services for Iltalehti.fi, Finland’s largest digital news platform serving 3+ million weekly users. Working across our entire digital ecosystem, I create both user-facing features and internal tools that empower our newsroom.

Key achievements:

  • Developed front-end implementation of award-winning AI sentiment analysis tool that won first place at the INMA Global Media Awards 2024, with other category winners including Washington Post and Daily Mail
  • Led React v16 → v18 migration, enabling SSR streaming and improving page load performance and developer experience across the platform
  • Played a key role in architecting and launching “Paras Sää” weather section rebuild, creating a more responsive, feature-rich experience
  • Implemented Google Extended Access authentication, extending our Ruby backend to verify Google’s signing keys and serve Plus articles to eligible users
  • Developed journalist productivity tools, including a dynamic calculator embed, a poll embed, and improvements to a news tip embed.

Beyond coding, I actively shape our engineering culture:

  • Delivered presentations at Alma Media’s trainee program kickoffs (2024 and 2025), while regularly presenting at engineering demos.

Tech: TypeScript, React 18, Node.js, Ruby (backend contributions), SSR, Redux, AI Integration

Chief Technical Manager

Katang MGMT Oy

Jun 2021 - Aug 2022

Katang MGMT Oy operates two nightclubs in central Helsinki: Babylon Club & Garden and Rooftop Miami. As Chief Technical Manager, I was responsible for the technical production and operation of both venues. I also helped manage the websites, Google Workspace emails and social media accounts of the company.

Some of my accomplishments and duties at Katang MGMT Oy include:

  • Design and execution of the Babylon Club & Garden website in cooperation with our graphic designer.
  • Managing and growing the social media presence of both of our venues on Instagram and Facebook
  • Collaborate closely with our technical partners to design the technical setup for both venues.

Chief Technical Producer

White Label Company Oy

Nov 2017 - Jul 2020

As the lead technical producer at Valkoinen sali, I managed all audio, lighting, video, and networking operations for the venue. My responsibilities included overseeing production meetings with clients, leading a team of technicians, managing equipment rentals with technical partners, ensuring compliance with technical riders, and executing lighting and sound operations. I also played a central role in client communication, ensuring the seamless technical execution of their events.

Notable achievements include:

  • Successfully managed the technical production for the busiest Christmas season in company history, overseeing over 50 events in just three months (October 2019 - December 2019).
  • Led the technical production of a two-day festival twice (Bassline Festival 2018 and Bassline Festival 2019).

Come say hi!