Leo Southwick, Director of Engineering at Kognitiv Edge, spearheads our engineering initiatives, fostering a culture of innovation and technical excellence within the team.
Leo embarked on his software engineering journey as an intern at a local tech agency during his college years. Graduating from Iowa State University in 2017 with degrees in Software Engineering and Mathematics, he swiftly transitioned into a full-time developer role, demonstrating a penchant for problem-solving and a relentless pursuit of quality. Over six years, Leo evolved from an associate developer tackling technical challenges to a seasoned senior developer and team lead, where he navigated high-level architectural complexities and nurtured robust client and team relationships. This experience culminated in his appointment as Director of Engineering at Kognitiv Edge, where he continues to drive technical innovation and team empowerment.
Leo loves building, tinkering and improving on technical projects, but the passion extends beyond work. At home, he is typically found in his garage woodshop either building custom furniture and games for family and friends or restoring his vintage sailboat. Leo subscribes to the philosophy of servant leadership, prioritizing the growth and well-being of his team above all else. He believes true leaders don’t take credit for the team’s success but take on the full responsibility of any failures.
At Kognitiv Edge, Leo's unwavering dedication to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment ensures that our clients receive cutting-edge solutions tailored to their unique needs. By championing a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing, he empowers his team to push the boundaries of technology, driving tangible value for our clients and cementing Kognitiv Edge's reputation as a leader in the industry.