Have you ever met a child prodigy all grown up? Well you’re about to! Meet John Edwards, who built his first computer at 6 (yes, 6!) years old. He’s now a software architect for Enovation Controls. John likes to call himself the “biggest introvert at The Root,” but with how he participates in our community, we’re thinking he’s gotta be an extroverted introvert! 

Enovation Controls operates as a stand-alone subsidiary of Helios Technologies with an internationally diverse team of over 300 employees, serving customers around the world with global sales, manufacturing and application engineering operations. EC partners directly with OEMs and supports a worldwide network of authorized distributors and system integrators. The rich history of rugged and reliable Murphy products has propelled Enovation Controls to become the well-respected and trusted partner to major engine and equipment manufacturers around the world.

What do you do? Tell us a little bit about your company.

I am a Software Architect for Enovation Controls (previous FW Murphy). Our primary business is building ruggedized (outdoor) digital dash display, control, and infotainment systems for various recreational and industrial vehicles.

What could you give a 30-minute presentation about with no advance preparation

Embedded application processors and technologies. It’s my job to be a nerd.

What is the best investment you’ve ever made?

The realization that I’m not good at making investments and it’s best to leave that 401k alone.

How did you end up in your current role?

Started right out of college. Never left.

What advice would you give to 17-year-old you?

Hang in there, high school is almost over and it’s not that important anyway.

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Built my first PC when I was 6, 486DX2, so I was destined to grow up and be a nerd.

What do you do to get rid of stress?

Anything outdoors.

What is your favorite restaurant in Tulsa and what do you get there?

One favorite is too hard…

• Bull In The Alley – Steak
• The Brook – Anything + the Mac and Cheese
• Charlestons – Potato Soup + House Salad + Side of Fried Okra

What is the plot of your favorite movie or book?

Usually, dystopian science fiction of some sort, so in general the world is not a pleasant place, at least not without a good amount of “soma” around.

What can’t you leave the grocery store without?

Wine!

What trend do you hope makes a comeback?

Lan Parties (there’s that nerd thing creeping back in).

What’s one song or artist that you’re embarrassed to admit you like?

Tubthumping – Chumbawamba (did they even have any other songs?)

What is one of your favorite things about being a member of The Root Coworking?

I enjoy the lively atmosphere, friendly faces, and general energy of people working hard and enjoying what they are doing. Beer o’clock and Wine Wednesdays are pretty good, too.