SOFTWARE ENGINEER
Full-stack developer and systems architect with 18+ years of experience building enterprise software solutions. Specialized in cloud-native applications, industrial IoT systems, and automation platforms that scale from embedded devices to enterprise infrastructure.
Professional Journey & Philosophy
As a seasoned software engineer and founder of Blackrock Engineering, I architect and build scalable software solutions that bridge the gap between complex engineering requirements and modern web technologies. My unique background combines 18+ years of mechanical engineering expertise with advanced software development skills, creating a rare perspective in the industry.
My journey began in aerospace manufacturing with companies like UTC Aerospace Systems (formerly Goodrich), where I developed automated CNC finishing processes for Boeing 747 landing gear. This early exposure to mission-critical systems instilled a deep appreciation for reliability, safety, and precision—values that permeate every software solution I create today.
Over nearly two decades at companies like Nye Manufacturing and Cousins Packaging, I evolved from mechanical design into software architecture, developing comprehensive automation platforms that revolutionized engineering workflows. My expertise spans the full technology stack: from React/Next.js frontends and Node.js backends to AWS cloud infrastructure and embedded C++ systems. I've successfully deployed over 50 production systems, ranging from enterprise automation platforms processing 50,000+ CAD files to real-time IoT monitoring systems managing industrial equipment across North America.
What distinguishes my approach is the intersection of engineering rigor with modern software practices. I don't just build applications—I architect systems that understand the complexities of manufacturing, quality control, and industrial processes. Whether it's developing custom LISP automation that saves engineering departments hundreds of hours, building machine vision systems with 97%+ accuracy, or creating cloud-native platforms that scale from embedded devices to enterprise infrastructure, I focus on delivering solutions that are both technically sophisticated and practically valuable.
Career Evolution
Founder & Lead Software Engineer
Blackrock Engineering
Founded full-service engineering consultancy specializing in modern web applications and industrial IoT solutions. Leading development of cloud-native platforms, machine vision systems, and embedded solutions for clients across aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing sectors.
✓Built 25+ cloud applications
✓Deployed IoT systems across 3 countries
✓Achieved 98% client satisfaction rate
Senior Mechanical Design Engineer & Software Developer
Cousins Packaging Inc.
Spearheaded digital transformation initiatives, developing comprehensive CAD automation platforms and robotic integration systems. Created custom LISP frameworks processing 50,000+ engineering assets and managed multi-million dollar automation projects.
✓90% reduction in CAD processing time
✓Designed 50+ robotic weld fixtures
✓Led team of 8 engineers
Software Engineer & Systems Integrator
Nye Manufacturing Ltd.
Architected enterprise software solutions including ERP integrations, custom reporting systems, and manufacturing automation platforms. Developed VB.NET applications with SolidWorks API integration and managed SQL Server databases with Crystal Reports dashboards.
✓Integrated Infor VISUAL ERP
✓Built real-time cost analysis tools
✓Secured $50K training grant
Engineering Systems Developer
Various Aerospace & Manufacturing
Cut my teeth in aerospace and automotive manufacturing, developing automated systems and quality control processes. Worked with industry leaders including UTC Aerospace, Dana Incorporated, and specialized manufacturing facilities.
✓Automated Boeing 747 landing gear finishing
✓Developed quality control systems
✓Reduced manual processes by 60%
Core Software Engineering Competencies
Full-Stack Development
- ▸React/Next.js Applications
- ▸Node.js APIs
- ▸Database Design
- ▸Authentication & Authorization
Cloud Architecture
- ▸AWS Infrastructure
- ▸Docker Containerization
- ▸Kubernetes Orchestration
- ▸CI/CD Pipelines
Enterprise Integration
- ▸ERP System Integration
- ▸Custom API Development
- ▸Legacy System Modernization
- ▸Data Migration
Industrial IoT
- ▸Embedded Programming
- ▸MQTT Protocols
- ▸Real-time Data Processing
- ▸Edge Computing
Automation & Tooling
- ▸Custom LISP Programming
- ▸CAD API Integration
- ▸Workflow Automation
- ▸Build Tools
Machine Learning & AI
- ▸Computer Vision Systems
- ▸Predictive Analytics
- ▸TensorFlow/PyTorch
- ▸Data Pipelines
0
Years of Software Development
0
Production Systems Deployed
0
Programming Languages Mastered
0
Cloud Applications Built
Technical Expertise
Technology Stack
Frontend
Backend
Cloud & DevOps
Specialized
Engineering Philosophy & Methodology
Systems Thinking
Every software solution exists within a larger ecosystem. I approach development with a holistic view, considering how applications interact with existing infrastructure, user workflows, and business processes. This systems perspective ensures solutions that integrate seamlessly and scale effectively.
- • End-to-end process optimization
- • Legacy system integration planning
- • Cross-functional team collaboration
- • Long-term maintainability focus
Quality-First Development
Drawing from aerospace and manufacturing experience, I apply rigorous quality standards to software development. This includes comprehensive testing, code reviews, documentation, and performance monitoring to ensure production-ready solutions.
- • Test-driven development practices
- • Automated CI/CD pipelines
- • Performance monitoring & optimization
- • Security-first architecture design
Agile & Iterative Approach
Complex engineering problems require adaptive solutions. I employ agile methodologies with rapid prototyping, continuous feedback, and iterative refinement to deliver value quickly while maintaining flexibility for evolving requirements.
- • Rapid prototyping & MVP development
- • Regular stakeholder communication
- • Incremental feature delivery
- • Continuous improvement processes
Innovation Through Constraint
The best engineering solutions often emerge from working within constraints. Whether it's optimizing for performance, working with legacy systems, or meeting strict compliance requirements, I view limitations as catalysts for creative problem-solving.
- • Resource-efficient architectures
- • Creative problem-solving approaches
- • Compliance-driven design decisions
- • Budget-conscious technology choices
Industry Expertise & Domain Knowledge
Aerospace & Defense
5+ yearsKey Projects:
- •Boeing 747 landing gear automation
- •UTC Aerospace manufacturing systems
- •Quality control processes
Technologies:
Automotive Manufacturing
8+ yearsKey Projects:
- •Dana driveshaft assembly optimization
- •Pressure testing automation
- •Contaminated oil removal systems
Technologies:
Packaging & Automation
12+ yearsKey Projects:
- •Stretch wrapper development
- •Robotic welding cells
- •Conveyorized systems
- •Film cut mechanisms
Technologies:
Heavy Equipment & Construction
15+ yearsKey Projects:
- •Hydraulic excavator attachments
- •Engine block extractors
- •Demolition equipment
- •Mining applications
Technologies:
Manufacturing ERP & Integration
12+ yearsKey Projects:
- •Infor VISUAL implementations
- •Custom reporting systems
- •Inventory management
- •Cost analysis tools
Technologies:
Industrial IoT & Monitoring
6+ yearsKey Projects:
- •Real-time equipment monitoring
- •Predictive maintenance systems
- •Environmental controls
- •Energy management
Technologies:
Professional Development & Certifications
Formal Education & Training
Engineering Technology Program
Comprehensive mechanical engineering curriculum with focus on CAD, manufacturing processes, and system design
SolidWorks Essentials Training
Javelin Technologies (Oakville) - Multi-day intensive training funded by $50K Yves Landry Foundation grant
Professional Engineer Collaboration
Certified design consultation and drawing stamping for load-lifting devices across the GTA
Continuous Learning & Development
Industry Engagement & Knowledge Sharing
Code Reviews & Collaboration
Active participant in online code review communities, contributing to best practices development and staying current with emerging technologies and industry standards.
Technical Events & Conferences
Regular attendance at in-person technical events and conferences to network with industry professionals and learn about cutting-edge developments in software engineering.
Send a Message
Ready to Build Something Amazing?
Whether you need a scalable web application, an industrial IoT solution, or complex system integration, I bring the experience and technical expertise to turn your vision into reality. Let's discuss how we can solve your most challenging software problems together.