Brittae Gray-Ross
Application Developer
Washington University, School of Medicine
St. Louis
Roosevelt High School
University Of Missouri-St. Louis, BA, Liberal Arts (with emphasis in Information Systems)
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.
Tell us about your work at Washington University School of Medicine.
I build databases, table structures, and query reports using SQL. I also use C# programming when developing web applications. I perform application lifecycle activities, including: Code, monitor, maintain, test, and debug software applications, while also creating, documenting, scheduling, and supporting operational activities.
What drew you to a career in technology? Did any mentors or special programs in spire or help you along the way?
After I graduated from high school, I understood that technology was a great industry to go into if I wanted to be employed after graduating from college. The tech industry then, as is now, continues to grow. As I continued my studies, I realized how important the skills I was developing were, not just for job security, but to the advancement of our society.
I had a couple of advisors/mentors in college that really helped me along the way. Derrick Freeman was a great advisor/mentor when I was attending University of Missouri-St. Louis. Another great advisor/mentor was M.K. Stallings. Neither Derrick Freeman or M.K. Stallings were in the tech industry, but both men gave me the emotional and cultural support I needed to succeed while in college. I was always highly capable of exceeding in my field, but having the support of two highly educated black men made a substantial impact on my educational experience.
Tell us about an app you’ve developed that you’re especially proud of.
In late 2015, I co-founded ULSTN LLC. Its primary purpose was to be an alternative to commercial radio by playing music specifically from local music artists. In 2016, we launched the beta version of our mobile app. The app was available on all mobile devices and played music specifically from St. Louis music artists 24/7. I also produced my first radio show on this streaming app.
You serve as Social Action Chair for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Epsilon Lambda Chapter. What are some of the initiatives you lead in that role?
As Social Action Chair, I’ve emphasized the importance of voter education and voter registration in this election season. I initiated the “Rigged: The Voter Suppression Playbook” special screening series and panel discussions. In our screening and panel discussions, we addressed politics, voting systems, and social change. Special guest panelists included activists and politicians.
What are your three favorite or most-used mobile apps?
The mobile apps that I use the most would have to be Tidal, YouTube, and Google.
