howdy 🤠

In an episode of Invest like the Best, Sam Hinkie talks about how he looks for the digital breadcrumbs of people he's thinking of working with. I like that idea. Why not make it easier for folks? So here is all I can think of that matters when it comes to my passion for work.

I am High School Computer Science Teacher at Gonzaga College High School who is passionate about the intersection of education and technology. Previously, a software developer working on innovative automated solutions. I am an experienced customer focused leader with knowledge in multiple tech and developer backgrounds. I have experience in leadership roles at my first startup, as well as, school and youth-oriented organizations. I graduated Seattle University with a Bachelors of Science in Computer Science with a specialization in business.

I have a relational obesssion, that draws me to want to be working directly with students and customers, and leading through service.

I like to say, let's all try to be for others. I can only pray that God would change my heart to be more oriented towards serving others selflessly. But it's hard to do. I think we humans are bent towards our own self comfort. So sometimes you have to force yourself to serve and find the fruit of that along the way. I try my best to do this with my teammates and customers, whatever the work.

Summer swimming where I grew up was big. It was a team of 8 to 18 year olds, all competing on the same team, counting for the same points. These swim teams were massive with 200+ kids, plus parents and coaches. Meets involved swimming but also spirit and culture to galvanize the entire community. It was in this environment I got to work with peers to creatively out-spirit and out-pump up other teams to win meets. There was collobaration, vison, and competition that showed me the thrill of winning with people you love for something your passionate about.

go deeper.

I went to Gonzaga High School in DC and Seattle University for undergrad, both are Jesuit founded. Jesuits are big on being a person for others. I love how Jesuit education integrates all courses with theology and philosophy. I felt like I could study Computer Science but have it be directed toward serving humanity, and not just myself and my career.

go deeper.

My first job out of school was with an early stage startup based out of Seattle, Barn2Door. I started with 20 fellow employees and left at around 60. It was a wild ride. I was the first support employee and got the opportunity to build the Support department from the ground up. I worked closely with the CEO and product team to point out parts of the product that needed attention due to customer needs and the data we were seeing on the support side. I learned how to be a team player with a company that is looking to serve the common good.

go deeper.

After spending some time in the corporate tech world, I felt myself being pulled back to the intersection of tech and education. Returning to my roots, I am currently working as Computer Science teacher at my high school alma mater, Gonzaga College High School in Washington, DC. Here, I have cherished the opportunity to build relationships, develop new courses, and ensure that students take ownership of their learning.

go deeper.