My journey at Bitforge – where code meets creativity
An article by Christoph Haas
When I started my internship at Bitforge AG in Zurich, I had only heard of Flutter but had never worked with it. I didn’t know where this journey would take me or that it would change my perspective on software development, teamwork, and even myself.
Start of my internship
I joined as an ICT specialist in training, with experience in support and customer consulting, but with a deep-seated desire to finally get creative with coding myself. After just a few days at Bitforge, I realized: Here, I can think outside the box. It’s not just about code here—it’s about vision.
My first Flutter App
Right from the start, I had the opportunity to work on an app idea that took my thinking to a whole new level. That’s how my first real Flutter app came to be, which I named “Eyerise.” This app serves as a reminder of the importance of giving your eyes breaks to prevent eye strain. I was able to unleash my creativity like never before. Every small step forward in the code felt to me like a brushstroke on a blank canvas.
Eyerise guides users through short, guided breaks away from the screen. After launching the app, you first select a session that suits your current situation—from active eye exercises to calming audio guides designed to promote relaxation. The app’s main feature is the 20-20-20 timer, which reminds you at regular intervals to consciously let your gaze wander into the distance. In addition, there are blinking exercises, tension-release sessions to relieve tension in the eyes and head, as well as a gaze-shift flow that gently guides your gaze, with many more features to come in the future. Much of the content is available offline, so you can take breaks anytime—no matter where you are.
How Eyerise Works: Eye breaks that don’t interrupt, but support (in development)
An inspiring environment
This work was not only technically exciting, but also personally enriching. As a neurodivergent person with autism, I was initially unsure how well I would fit into a new team. But Bitforge surprised me in the best possible way: I found an environment that is calm, respectful, and open. A place where I could simply be myself. My colleagues treated me with understanding, patience, and genuine interest. I was able to learn at my own pace and focus on precision, structure, and logic.
I was particularly impressed by the atmosphere in this small, close-knit team. Despite its modest size, Bitforge exudes something I’ve experienced firsthand in larger companies: peace, clarity, and mutual support. No noisy office, no unnecessary pressure—just people who are passionate about their work. In this calm environment, I found my inspiration, my motivation, and a genuine sense of belonging.
Looking Back on a Step Forward
During this time, I didn’t just write code—I also broadened my horizons. I learned to think more creatively, to critically reflect on my ideas, and to trust that my personal growth as a developer makes a valuable contribution, even if it sometimes takes an unconventional path.
Looking back on the time I spent at Bitforge, I can say that it marked a new chapter in my personal journey. I arrived with a mix of curiosity and uncertainty, and by the end, I left with a clearer perspective, new ideas, and confidence in my own abilities.
After careful consideration, I’ve come to the conclusion that software development may not just be about writing code, but rather about creating possibilities. Sometimes it helps to take a step back and reflect on the people, ideas, and opportunities you’re already working with. A small, peaceful place is sometimes the best place to set great things in motion.
Author: Christoph Haas
