Marge Hoogeboom, born in 1943, was one of the first remote software developers, starting her career in 1969. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, remote work became commonplace, but Marge's journey predates this shift, showcasing her groundbreaking role in the evolution of software development. Educated at Calvin University and Purdue University, where she embraced computer science as it emerged, Marge faced challenges leading to her pioneering remote work for General Electric (GE).
In 1965, after joining GE, Marge took on a part-time programming role, which soon led to a unique arrangement allowing her to work from home in Indiana as GE installed a terminal connected to their New York mainframe. This was a revolutionary step during a time when the Internet was not available, requiring the development of a new workflow for remote programming. Every weekend, she would receive source code listings, address issues, and send back her changes—all from her home.
Marge's contributions not only aided GE but also paved the way for future generations of remote developers. Her story illustrates the importance of adaptability and innovation in the tech industry, emphasizing how early pioneers laid the groundwork for the flexible work environments many software developers enjoy today. Marge Hoogeboom passed away on August 11 at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration for tech professionals everywhere.
What impact did Marge Hoogeboom have on remote software development?
Marge was one of the first remote software developers, establishing practices and workflows that helped shape the future of remote work in the tech industry.
How did Marge manage her work-life balance while working remotely?
Marge negotiated a part-time role, managed her time between work and family, and efficiently used telecommunication tools to maintain productivity.
What technological challenges did Marge face in her remote work?
In 1969, with no Internet access, Marge had to rely on dedicated phone lines and physical shipments of code listings to communicate and perform her software development tasks.
How can Metaistic help with remote software development?
Metaistic offers consulting and design services to help companies establish effective remote software development practices, leveraging cloud technology and best practices from pioneers like Marge Hoogeboom.
