Worked on enhancing model freshness configuration in the dbt-labs/dbt-core repository, focusing on improving the reliability of data freshness validation for downstream analytics. Developed support for the build_after.updates_on property, allowing users to configure freshness checks more flexibly. Improved the parsing and handling of build_after and updates_on properties within the dbt parser, reducing the risk of misconfiguration and increasing parser robustness. Utilized Rust and backend development skills to consolidate these changes, resulting in more configurable and reliable freshness validation. The work addressed a core need for better data pipeline management, emphasizing maintainability and correctness in backend systems.