Lift Off: The Rocket Software Rocketeer Profile Series – Get to Know Aruna Kailasanathan

We talk a lot about our values of Empathy, Humanity, Trust, and Love here at Rocket Software. Those values help us keep our customers at the leading edge of their digital transformation and modernization journeys. However, that success is only possible because of the Rocketeers, who are “All In” on those core values, bringing their passion and industry-leading expertise to every challenge that comes their way. 

Our next Rocketeer to step into the spotlight is Aruna Kailasanathan, Senior Software Engineer at Rocket Software. Aruna brings more than 20 years of software engineering experience, including her time at Rocket Software-acquired ASG Technologies. She leads a talented team of developers focused on creating mainframe modernization solutions, helping Rocket Software’s customers address their most significant modernization challenges. In addition, Aruna plays an active role in the Rocket Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (RIDE) program, supporting the company’s DEI initiatives. She helps plan various RIDE events, connects employees to these initiatives, and identifies volunteer opportunities within the community.

Join us as we get to know Aruna.

Fast Facts 

One word to describe the Rocket culture?
Inclusive.

Coffee or tea? 
Coffee.

Proud Moment?
Getting to help those around me.

Favorite Rocket Software value? 
Humanity.

Bucket List Destination?
The Caribbean.

What about Rocket Software stood out to you?

I started with Rocket Software a little over two-and-a-half years ago after coming over through an acquisition. What really stood out to me initially – and still does – is Rocket Software’s commitment to celebrating diversity and different cultures.

Our team is made up of individuals from different regions around the world, and when we talk to each other, we share different stories and experiences from our respective cultures. We talk about these differences, and we celebrate them together. Diversity is important to me, and I really like that we do that. I’m also a big fan of Rocket’s inclusive programs, like RIDE, as well as the various volunteer opportunities the company provides.

What is one of your proudest moments during your time at Rocket Software? 

One of my proudest moments at Rocket Software was actually very early-on in my time at the company. During the initial days after I joined the company, I was part of the team that helped establish one of our global offices, and it took a tremendous amount of effort from many individuals to make it successful. I can honestly say, I enjoyed every moment of it.

I also get to work on some of the most innovative products at Rocket Software—and because of that, I get to collaborate with master technologists. Being a part of this team is something I’m truly grateful for and I cherish those moments.

Do you think Rocket Software’s core values of Empathy, Humanity, Trust, and Love are unique from other companies? And how do you live by these in your day-to-day role? 

I have about 20 years of experience spread out over a number of companies. In my experience, they tend to focus more on reaching business goals. But at Rocket Software, I’ve always seen that the priority is building relationships, whether it’s with Rocketeers or with customers.

When you build relationships and don’t just focus on the transactional side, it takes you to a different level. What I love about relationship building is that it helps people understand what’s best for each other and how to have each other’s backs. This is what we do with my team, and I really like the fact that it not only helps us become closer but also motivates us to do our best work.

By focusing on relationships, it lets people know they belong, and we’ll work together to reach a successful outcome. This is true for anything, whether you are part of a team working on a product or a team working on something else, and I think that is really nice.

Rocket Software inspires an environment where diversity is celebrated and respected, people are valued for their unique contributions, and each Rocketeer feels a sense of belonging. Please share why you think DEI in the workplace is so important today.

I am part of the RIDE community pillar where I work on programs to improve inclusiveness and diversity. In today's social media-driven world where everything is so fast-paced, relationships are sometimes a little forgotten. We’re trying to fix that.

Our RIDE programs focus on relationships, celebrating cultures, and uplifting Rocketeers. We also try to help wherever possible within the community, which makes a big difference. Instead of people thinking, “I just work here,” they think, “I belong here.” This sense of belonging is vital for every Rocketeer, highlighting the importance of relationship building.

It’s truly fulfilling, and I enjoy being a part of it. Building relationships within the organization is essential for taking things to the next level. RIDE plays a crucial role in fostering those connections.

Check out another Rocketeer profile, here.