Lester Traband ’00 has spent nearly two decades building a career in software development — a path shaped by curiosity, persistence, and an early love of problem solving.
A graduate of Bonner & Prendie’s Class of 2000, Lester traces his interest in technology back to the academic challenges he embraced as a student.
“The math classes I took with Mr. Celidonio and Mr. Donahue were inspirational. A lot of people said they were difficult, but it was fun to take on that challenge.”
That mindset of leaning into complexity rather than avoiding it would later define his professional journey.
Lester’s connection to Bonner mathematics even spans generations. “My dad and brothers all had Mr. Celidonio for math.”
A Foundation for Analytical Thinking
Growing up in Aldan, Lester attended St. Joseph’s Catholic Grade School in Collingdale. Like many of his classmates, continuing into Catholic high school felt like a natural progression.
“Most of us ended up at Bonner & Prendie and we all rode the trolley to school together. There were a lot of mornings standing outside in the cold waiting,” he recalls with a laugh.
What stands out most from Lester’s Bonner experience is the culture of respect, discipline, and intellectual engagement.
“The community most of all stands out. Teachers and students really had respect for one another.”
He also credits theology classes with shaping his long-term perspective.
“At the time, I wouldn’t have thought it, but I still apply things I learned in theology. A lot of those lessons stuck and helped me through life and my career.”
Pursuing Computer Science
After graduating from Bonner in 2000, Lester enrolled at West Chester University, earning a degree in Computer Science in 2004.
Yet his entry into the technology field did not happen immediately. Following college, Lester spent two years working at a grocery store while searching for opportunities in software development.
“When I think back on that time, I realized I was missing interviewing skills and resume preparation specific to technology.”
Determined to bridge that gap, Lester enrolled in an intensive three-month training program focused on software development platforms and technical career preparation.
“That was the thing I was missing. The prep I had before was too general.”
The experience proved transformative, launching his first role in the tech industry.
Building a Career in Technology
Since entering the field, Lester has developed software across multiple industries and applications.
He began at National Software Testing Labs (NSTL), where he helped build web portals to track testing results for applications and video games. The role immersed him in quality assurance systems, user interfaces, and performance evaluation.
He later joined Insert Key Solutions, developing software solutions for energy companies, including nuclear power facilities. The work required precision, reliability, and an understanding of complex operational systems.
From there, Lester transitioned into digital marketing technology at Annodyne in Blue Bell. His work centered on building websites, landing pages, and campaign platforms, particularly for colleges and universities.
Each role expanded both his technical capabilities and his adaptability.
“There’s so much software out there and so many different facets to it. It’s interesting how much I know at this stage and how much I don’t know.”
Current Technology Role
In 2018, Lester began working with the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, initially as a contractor before becoming a full-time employee in 2021.
Today, he builds software applications that support the bank’s operations, working extensively with Microsoft’s Power Platform and Power Apps. His work focuses on designing tools that improve workflows, solve operational challenges, and help teams use technology more effectively.
“I like solving problems and coming up with solutions to help someone out. Sometimes it’s something they hadn’t thought of.”
He describes software development as both analytical and creative. “We can take technology that already exists and repurpose it to build something new and better.”
Lessons from a STEM Career
After nearly 20 years in software development, Lester’s greatest takeaway is simple.
“The biggest thing I’ve learned is that I enjoy it.”
He encourages students interested in STEM fields to embrace persistence.
“Sometimes it may seem tough to figure something out, but persistence is key. You need to continue working at a problem until you solve it.”
He also emphasizes balance and collaboration.
“Sometimes it includes taking breaks or asking for help, and that’s OK.”
Advice for the Next Generation
Lester offers a perspective that challenges a common narrative about success and fulfillment.
“A lot of people say your high school and college years are the best years of your life, but I disagree.”
Instead, he encourages students to view education as preparation for a long and meaningful future.
“Those are the years to explore, try new things, and figure things out. But remember why you’re there. You’re there to learn to do something you love, so that the best years are all the years after.”
Life Beyond Technology
While Lester’s professional life revolves around software and systems, his greatest joy today is family.
“My wife is incredible. We have two kids now. Being a dad challenges me in new ways, but it’s the best thing.”
Note: Lester’s opinions are his own and do not reflect the views of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia or any other organization with which he has been affiliated.