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Introduction

• Hometown: Streamwood, IL
• Favorite Food: Al Pastor Tacos
• Favorite Movie: The Shawshank Redemption
• Favorite Hobby: Disc Golf and playing bass guitar
• Childhood Dream: To own a cabin in the woods by a lake with a boat out back

Meet Michael

Michael Guardi is a Senior Developer for the Rams. His job is to solve problems with technology and keep the team's computer systems running smoothly. He builds tools that save time, prevent mistakes, and make it easier for coaches and staff to use information. Thanks to his work, the Rams can make smarter decisions and give fans the best possible experience.

Path After High School

After high school, Michael went to community college to study science. At first, he planned to go into pharmacy. But when he filled his schedule with a programming class, everything changed — he discovered coding. That single class made him pivot to computer information systems. Community college gave him time to figure out what he really wanted, and his bachelor's degree from DeVry University opened the door to his first big break: an internship with the Cleveland Browns, which ultimately led him to the Rams.

Twist in the Journey

Michael's original plan was the medical field, but one unexpected programming class shifted his path entirely. He realized software development excited him in a way pharmacy never did. Taking the risk to change majors wasn't easy, but it set him on the path toward professional sports technology.

STEAM in Action

Michael uses multiple parts of STEAM in his daily work:

• Technology: Exploring new tools and automating tasks to save time and reduce errors

• Engineering: Building systems to store and process data so analytics teams can make smarter decisions

• Math: Using numbers and calculations in those systems, to help make those smarter decisions

• Science: Testing and refining solutions, like running experiments, until the right answer emerges

Day in the Life

Michael says no two days are the same. Some days he's developing new software, other days he's refining data systems or automating processes. The offseason, surprisingly, is his busiest time, because that's when he builds new projects and architectures to launch during the season.

The Best Part of Michael's Job

Michael loves the variety of his work. Every project brings new challenges, and every solution makes the organization stronger. Seeing fans smile in the stadium reminds him that his behind-the-scenes work helps deliver an amazing experience.

Michael's Advice for Students

Keep learning. College gives you a foundation, but the real key is staying up to date on new technology and best practices. Michael also advises not to limit yourself to your favorite things (or sports teams) when chasing opportunities in life, because the right fit might come from an unexpected place.