A Workplace Highlight | “WesTech”
Who is 14 West Technology Solutions?
If you’ve met or worked with someone on the Tech Solutions team (or “WesTech” as they like to call themselves), you know that they don’t run from a challenge. But when you’re a part of a multi-faceted team that is responsible for keeping the systems and applications that keep some of the world’s leading privately-owned media companies up and running – you sort of need to be fearless.
If the program or application that a client is looking for isn’t quite doing its job… they break it down and build it back up to be better than before. If the technology needed doesn’t exist… well, then they build it from scratch. In fact, a number of these proprietary systems have paved the way for innovations that the media and digital marketing world hasn’t seen before. Their hard work and dedication have helped position our client’s businesses as industry front runners.
Having such a diverse range of clients can bring some pretty diverse needs with it. But with three main support arms working in an Agile environment – Business Intelligence, Global Technologies, and Application Support – they’ve got you covered. “WesTech” prides themselves on being able to streamline and tailor their services to suit each individual business’s needs.
But, it wasn’t always like this. In 2018, 14 West underwent an exciting transformation that brought all of the various tech support groups under one proverbial roof. That means IT is working side by side with Business Intelligence, who are in lockstep with teams like Advantage (our CRM team), E-Commerce, and Messaging.
Physically, on the other hand, they operate out of two different buildings on our Mount Vernon campus. And we’re going to give you a look inside…
Our 14 West Technology Solutions Workplace Highlight
The 14 West Technology team is made up of a few specialized tech teams including Marketing Intelligence, Operations, Information Security, and Global Technologies. The tasks that each team take on vary, but they all rely on one another to keep things running smoothly.
Our Baltimore City campus is in the heart of the historic neighborhood of Mount Vernon. If you’ve never been, take a second to imagine streets littered with quirky coffee shops, boutiques, bars and galleries, and beautiful parks ornamented with fountains and historic monuments.
And while “WesTech” offers two kick-ass office spaces, they’re quite different. One has been renovated into a contemporary and sleek, state of the art office with glass walls and all of the modern amenities your heart could desire. The other is a former church built in the 1840s. Yes, there are standing desks, a sizeable data center, and dry erase boards…but there are also fireplaces, chandeliers, and a staircase that spirals up to a stained-glass ceiling.
Let’s just say, from the street, you’d never know that both building’s interiors have been reinvented into a home for some of the most innovative technologists in Baltimore.
“Finding solutions through innovation.”
Inside, the office stays abuzz with tests, debates, and brainstorms. The team believes in finding solutions through innovation, which means a lot of time at the drawing board to ensure final products are flawless. There’s even a team devoted to prototyping and exploring the possibilities of the technology that they work with.
To us, this is one of the coolest parts about working there… no one else in the world is doing what this team is doing. For that reason, they look for idea people who want to put their savvy to the test – and don’t give up. Because trying new things means failing. So they need people who are not only willing but eager to perpetually rework and tweak a product to maximize its value…that is, until the time comes for a new product.
“Perfect place for young professionals in the tech field to flourish.”
For the right person, “WesTech” provides incredible opportunities to learn, advance, and develop their career.
And while 14 West has the resources and stability of a large company, we are still able to maintain the feel and culture of a young start-up. It’s truly a place for technologists to explore, find their career, and gain priceless experience working with some of the best in their field. As a new employee, you are oftentimes sitting side by side with someone who created the platform that you are working on.
If you like what you’re reading, you’re in luck, because this team only continues to grow and is hiring right now. If you think you’d be a good fit, there might be an opportunity for you. We’re not saying it’s easy to get in, but it’s sure as hell worth it.
Daisy Smith
Assistant Director, Communications
"Don’t take yourself too seriously.”
I found myself at 14 West after 18 months of traveling and teaching in Bali, Thailand, and Australia. And now 5 years later, I’ve learned and grown with my team in extraordinary ways. I think that’s due in large part to the fact that I’ve been encouraged to approach my work and explore my potential in the same ways I’ve explored other parts of the world. I’m constantly asking questions, seeing and doing new things. And learning A LOT. I didn’t expect to find an experience like this in “an office back home.”
I love my position at 14 West because I’m invited to take on a diverse range of responsibilities. From running our Wellness Program to brand development and brand marketing to writing, I have a broad range of interests. And my role allows me to develop my skills through work that truly excites me. I have a hard time saying no to new projects, even when I already have a full plate. But when I take on too much, the leaders here are there with the support I need to get the job done. At the same time, I’m given the creative freedom to feel real ownership over my projects, which only motivates me more.
What is one thing you have to do every day in the office? Gotta have my essential oil diffuser going. Five of us share an office and we’re all hooked on the diffuser now, but it’s my job to create the perfect oil cocktail each morning to set the tone for the day. I’m obsessed.
