I’m a technologist who’s followed my curiosity through various roles in software development, agile leadership, and now data analytics. This blog documents my ongoing journey of learning and exploration in technology.
Professional Background
I got my start in computers by hacking around on a Commodore 64. I distinctly remember loading an ASCII bowling game, and finding out that I could see the source code before running the program. Not knowing what source code was at the time, I simply saw the word “BOWLING”, as it appeared on the title screen. Being in elementary school at the time, I changed it to “POOPING”, ran the program, saw my changes, and my life was set on a very specific course.
From these humble beginnings, I went on to study computer networking through college. Upon graduating, I immediately began a career in web development, because CISCO certifications are hard. Early career HTML, CSS, JS, Classic ASP and PHP got me started in the world of software development. As technologies evolved, I barely did, continuing my skillset and going moderately deep in the PHP and WordPress world. I dabbled in AWS architecture in the early AWS days, and eventually found more joy at the intersection of people and technology than I did staying heads down at the keyboard.
Those interests led me into the world of Agile, and I became a Scrum Master. I loved working with a small focused team, and we did a lot of things that weren’t really Scrum, but worked well for us. I ended up drinking the Scaled Agile Framework Cool-Aid, and even did a little SAFe consulting. This led me to Portfolio Manager role.
Trying to scale Agile was a frustrating experience. I wasn’t close to the work, and I didn’t feel like I was providing value. In my free time, I was learning about machine learning, artificial intelligence, blockchain technologies, and other technological interests. My passions didn’t lie with the Scaled Agile Framework.
Disillusioned with SAFe, I found an opportunity to be a product manager for a data analytics team. I took a risk and pursued it, and the manager took a risk on me and hired me. That’s where our story begins, and the impetus for this website. I’m learning a lot, and I want to document what I’m learning.
Personal Background
I spend the bulk of my days in front of a computer. When I’m not here, I like to be outside. I enjoy skiing, ultimate frisbee, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, kiteboarding, hiking, traveling, and pretty much anything active. I like to do these things with family as much as possible, and I also enjoy amateur videography. That allows me to capture memories in a compelling way that I can enjoy with my wife and kids, and extended family.