At R3, it’s not just about the technology—it’s about the people who bring it to life. This month, we’re excited to shine the spotlight on William Mends-Cole, one of the standout members of our team. As a Solution Center Engineer II, William has been with R3 for over two years, delivering innovative solutions with both skill and heart. Whether he’s troubleshooting complex problems or sharing a laugh with a colleague, William embodies the spirit of collaboration and curiosity that defines R3.
We got to interview William this month, let’s see what is going on in his world…
A Unique Approach to Solving Problems
For William, what sets him apart in his field is not just technical expertise, but the way he connects with others. When asked what distinguishes his approach, he said, “I use a mixture of light-hearted comedy and compassion in my troubleshooting process.” This blend of humor and empathy not only leads to innovative solutions but also fosters a sense of trust with the people he works with.
Helping others solve their challenges? That’s the part of his role William loves most. He thrives on guiding both teammates and clients through issues, always eager to lend a hand.
Early Passion for Technology
William’s bright future in tech was evident from a young age. Encouraged by those around him, he decided to give computers a try—and clearly, it worked out! His decision to join R3 came from a desire to change things up and broaden his experience. “I needed a change of pace from working with larger institutions at the time,” he reflects. That decision led to his role on the DR3AMTEAM, where he continues to make an impact every day.
Teaching, Learning, and Reaching for New Horizons
Beyond solving technical puzzles, William also finds joy in teaching others. “I value my experiences teaching others the skills I’ve learned over the years and the gratitude I’ve received for it,” he says. And for William, learning never stops—he’s laser-focused on career growth, with a goal of earning a CASP+ or CISSP certification.
His time at R3 has also taught him one of the most important lessons in teamwork: “It’s okay to reach out for help if you feel stuck on something. People are always willing to help.” This mindset has not only fueled his personal development but also strengthened the bonds within his team.
Life Beyond the Job
William’s passion doesn’t end at the office. Outside of work, he prioritizes time with family and friends, staying connected with the people who matter most. When it’s time to unwind, he splits his time between gaming and designing architecture in CAD software—a creative outlet that flexes his problem-solving muscles in a whole new way.
Oh, and if you run into William outside of work, don’t be surprised if he’s under the hood of a car! A former B-Tech certified mechanic, he still lends his skills to friends who need their cars repaired. It’s no surprise he’d use lottery winnings to jump right back into the world of cars—specifically, building a drift car to pursue his love for racing.
The Lighter Side of William
When it comes to motivation, William has a simple mantra that helps him stay calm during challenges: “Stay relaxed as I work through the problem.” It’s an approach that’s not only practical but also underscores his thoughtful nature. Even his favorite piece of advice reflects his confident, can-do attitude. Borrowed from his days as a mechanic, his shop manager once told him, “It’s already broken, so don’t be afraid when trying to fix it.” It’s a reminder not to overthink—a rule William follows both in his professional life and beyond.
And if you’re wondering what kind of music keeps him energized, he’s a fan of upbeat EDM tracks that add fuel to the fire when he’s solving tech challenges or cruising through life.
Gratitude and Advice for Newcomers
When asked what he’s most grateful for at R3, William highlights the opportunity to test his skills and explore new software. He also values open communication with teammates, a hallmark of R3’s culture. His advice for newcomers? “Get to know your teammates—they’re all interesting people.” It’s a reflection of the collaborative environment that William not only believes in but actively helps build.
Final Thoughts
William Mends-Cole is more than just a skilled engineer—he’s a mentor, collaborator, problem-solver, and friend. From his ability to connect with others through humor and compassion to his commitment to continuous learning, he truly embodies what it means to be part of the R3 family. We’re proud to have him on the team and can’t wait to see what the future holds for him.
Stay tuned for our next employee spotlight—there’s no shortage of incredible stories at R3!
