Dylan McKee

I’ve been aware of and involved in Dynamo in some way for a long time – going to events, joining as a member when I set up Nebula Labs, and – very excitingly – being named winners in the Dynamites Awards!

I’ve always supported the aims of Dynamo, and share the passion for the sector and region so when the opportunity to join the board came up, I wanted to go for it and make a contribution, give something back.

As CEO and co-founder of software house Nebula Labs, I actually have a wide and very hands-on role. From pitching for new business to engaging with existing clients, leading, creating and developing on projects, to the admin and management that comes with running your own business – days can be very varied!

I started my career very young! I have always been a big fan of Apple and its founder Steve Jobs, and at 13 years old I released my first app when the App store had just been launched. It gained over 1 million downloads – and really inspired me to be part of the tech world. So one of my first major achievements was when I won a student scholarship to Apple’s World Wide Developers Conference (actually I won twice!) which was like a dream come true.

Setting up Nebula Labs straight from University (and with Newcastle University’s start up help) is something I am also very proud of. Having worked with other start-ups and entrepreneurs I knew this is what I wanted to do – to build a successful software house in the North East. I had great support and enthusiasm from others which was really encouraging and it showed me the power of the region’s tech community.

Recognition from others is always simply awesome to get and I was really proud of being named North East Tech Champion in the 2021 Dynamites Awards. This award from peers and others I really respect in the sector was absolutely amazing to receive.

As I’m passionate about what I do and the sector I work in, I love reading about it and doing my own research. I have trusted online platforms I read and check regularly. Networks and events are also important to go to, to have discussions and more in depth conversations about the future. In this industry there are always so many changes, opportunities and new developments that it is always interesting and never dull, always stay curious.

As well as being well known for my love of tea drinking, I can often be found sampling vegan delights at food festivals, enjoying a craft ale or two in local breweries, appreciating artists at music and cultural events, and running or cycling my way around the North East.

I think there are three important benefits to getting involved with Dynamo:

Personal – you get to be part of the amazing north east community and meet people you probably wouldn’t otherwise get to know – you’ll find supportive people, who are always ready to help even if it’s meeting up just for a chat, and it’s a great personal support network.

Business – if you run a tech or digital business you will find that the Dynamo community is all about collaboration and support, it’s a community that brings together a wide range of organisations that actively help each other out and this is fantastic for all.

Regional – we all want the sector and our region to grow and prosper, we all benefit from that, and we can only do that by working collectively, being part of Dynamo will help us all have a bigger, brighter future.