Meet Noel Graham | Software Consultant

We had the good fortune of connecting with Noel Graham and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Noel, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Software is pivotal in enabling financial independence, whether creating or using. Technology can transform lives and offer opportunities for individuals to thrive. I experienced this profound impact when, as a 20-year-old Gen-X slacker, I found a path to provide for myself and, later on, for my son. The barrier to entry was low. All I needed was a computer and a few books from Barnes & Noble. This accessibility opened doors I never thought I’d find, much less walkthrough.

Software offers opportunities, breaks down traditional barriers, and provides avenues for creative expression, entrepreneurship, and self-sufficiency. Experiencing this transformative power, I’ve grown increasingly uneasy with an ever-widening financial and technological gap. Novel Bamboo is my attempt to address this increasing gap.

Novel Bamboo is my attempt to bridge this cultural stratification — in a small way. I hope to address the financial and technical burdens surrounding the creation of modern software. I wanted to offer the technology used by Fortune 50 companies to folks who would otherwise not have access. I am implementing the same AI technology Microsoft is implementing in its operating system for a fitness coach just starting. The satisfaction I get from her reaction when I told her I could do that is what makes the work meaningful.

Folks with my experience and knowledge are knocking down the doors of start-ups and household-named tech companies. This makes sense, as qualifying for those opportunities takes time, motivation, and effort. For me, though, my son is almost 18, and I’d like to work with people who need and appreciate what I have to offer.

Novel Bamboo LLC is a software subscription service that provides unlimited software programming tasks and revisions for a fixed monthly rate. It took years of experience managing projects and some AI integration to ensure cost-effective software delivery. Working software is delivered monthly; no need to wait for the entire software to be completed before using it. The subscription service is ideal for folks, and small businesses, with complex or unique ideas or processes, precise needs, and seeking innovative solutions using the latest available technology.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career in software development began unconventionally by today’s standards. On more than one occasion, I was hired as a programmer without knowing how to program. During my interviews, I admitted I knew little but would work hard to learn if given the opportunity. I was given chances based on who I was and not where I went to school, a kindness I try to show others when interviewing.

As the years passed, I expanded my skill set. I taught myself seven programming languages, learned every aspect of software development, designed & developed products, managed projects, and built and led enterprise teams.

I’ve probably failed more than most while learning how to make things work. My career path in tech has been shaped by a blend of self-education, taking risks, and embracing opportunities. I’ve met many great people along the way—people who were kind enough to let me copy their homework.

I can’t say the journey was difficult, and I can’t say it was easy. I did what made the most sense at the time. When you’re reaching for opportunities, you’re just happy to get hold of a lifeline. There were some ruff years of unemployment, but they were far and few between. When facing professional challenges, I do my best to ignore my ego. I don’t believe any job is beneath me. Every position is temporary, “I am not my job.”

I fundamentally believe that almost anything is possible, with enough time and thought.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Eat at Reggae Pot Jamaican Grill Grab Oyster shots at Ocean Prime
Take a long drive through the mountains
Spend a night in Glenwood Springs
Hang out downtown, close to Union Station & Market ST

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Over the years, there have been so many people to thank for helping me along. It’s still strange to think that the skinny Jamaican kid is living the life he is. I appreciate every friend, roommate, co-worker, and stranger who engaged in random acts of kindness. I acknowledge their charity and owe them all my gratitude.

I will always credit their generosity and support for any success I enjoy. Whether it was offering guidance, a listening ear, or assistance during challenging times. I owe every one of them an immeasurable debt. Their belief in me and their willingness to lend a helping hand has been instrumental in my success.

There are some books that have played significant roles in motivating and inspiring me. They’ve provided insights, challenged my thinking, and sparked change.

“The 4-Hour Work Week” by Timothy Ferriss was the book that got me out of the office and working remotely. Haven’t worked out of an office since then.

John Eldredge’s “Wild at Heart” made me truly recognize the difference between knowing and understanding. It helped me better understand my relationship with my father, which limited me for many years.

Malcolm Gladwell’s “Outliers” clarified that I didn’t need to be the best; I just needed to be good enough. This book was the confidence builder among confidence builders.

These books, among others, fundamentally changed some aspects of my mindset. I am grateful for the wisdom wherever I can find it.

Website: http://novelbamboo.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novelexhibit/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noelg/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Novel_Bamboo