=> Aspire to be a *well-rounded* Backend Software Engineer.
=> Driven to solve complex problems and build tools that empower others.

I am teaching myself backend via Golang & Node.js, along with PostgreSQL, SQLite3, and MongoDB. Always looking for patterns, methods, ideas, etc. that I can use to write better backends.

• Comprehensive understanding of Docker and Kubernetes, gained from first-hand use, to orchestrate development of complex or intricate services, either on-prem or cloud.
• Fundamental understanding of, and experience with, functional backend languages, such as Elixir (BEAM), or Scala (JVM).
• Utilize a robust CI/CD pipeline, with GH Actions, Jenkins, or Docker, for security auditing, automated testing, coverage tracking, as well as the goal: deployment.

After completing my first GIS Contract, I decided to go in a completely different direction. I leaned on my technical experience of Windows and macOS troubleshooting and maintenance, as well as numerous electronic repairs and building gaming PCs. IT Desktop Support.

I loved the complex problems and creating, providing, and surfacing solutions. It was a job that fundamentally enabled daily work, reduced friction, and supported organizational successes. However, the longer I worked in IT, the more interested I became in programming...

For the longest time, it was more of a hobby. I had dabbled in it before. Trying to make an app, write a script, or automate workflows. The casual interest quickly compounded into a mature passion. Before I knew it, I was spending two hours programming every morning.

Just as my early skills began to form, a family emergency necessitated major changes and hard decisions. I chose this moment to actively pursue my long-standing passion for programming, and I am extremely thankful to my wife and family who have encouraged and supported me.

In order to reach my goal of being a well-rounded backend software engineer, I do not utilize LLM tools for taking shortcuts. If I were to utilize an LLM to write code on my behalf, analyze problems, or interpret an error message, I am only robbing myself of the opportunity to improve my skills.

For me, the best opportunities are interesting and complex challenges that let you learn from your mistakes. Each challenge is a chance to build skills and an enhanced understanding of the problem itself.

I take pride in both comprehensively understanding the challenges I face, and creating a satisfying and robust solution. And so, when I do use an LLM, it is to further those goals.

• Electronics
• Mathematics
• Computer Keyboards
• GIS & Maps
• Cooking & Baking

• I am a B1 in German, and just started learning Spanish.
• I graduated with a degree in Geography and am proficient in GIS, which would explain why I am a regular contributor to OpenStreetMap. :)