Staff Spotlight: Apollo Heidal - Building the Future of Imaging

Can you tell us about your role at Micro-X and what a typical day looks like for you?

My days at Micro-X have two different forms. As one of the builders for the Checkpoints project, I work with our mechanical engineers to assemble aluminum framing, modify and install panels and other finish-grade parts, and install wiring harnesses between components, to name a few examples. When fabricating, most of my day is spent with hands on the hardware with a handful of update meetings each week. As a software engineer, I work on threat recognition algorithms, which involves a combination of statistical and geometric analysis of CT images. On those days, I spend much more time planning and designing my future code, and reviewing code written by my Imaging teammates.

From a technology perspective, the miniature CT scanner that can quickly create a high-resolution image and recognize threats is the most cutting-edge project I have ever worked on.

What drew you to join Micro-X, and what excites you most about working here?

The opportunity to work both on software and hardware allows me to practice and improve a wide array of skills. Maybe one day I will specialize, but right now I enjoy being a generalist.

What’s one project or achievement at Micro-X that you’re especially proud of?

I am still impressed with the ability of the Checkpoints team to rapidly transition from a development/learning mindset to delivering a working and well-polished module.
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Micro-X is all about pushing boundaries—how do you see that reflected in your work?

From a technology perspective, the miniature CT scanner that can quickly create a high-resolution image and recognize threats is the most cutting-edge project I have ever worked on.

What’s something people might be surprised to learn about your background or interests?

I think people would find it unique that, while my role is software engineer, my career is goal is to be an expert builder. Learning to write excellent code is part of becoming someone who can build great, modern technology.

What advice would you give to someone starting out in medtech software engineering?

As a high reliability industry, developing medical technology must closely follow regulations and strict design practices. If you like planning and reviewing your designs before writing code, this industry will be a good fit for you. There is plenty of space for creativity and innovation, but it must be expressed within a rigorous development process.

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