About Me
Software Engineer, educator at heart, and community builder who brings curiosity, strategic thinking, and genuine human connection to everything I do
My Story
I'm a Software Engineer who discovered my love for teaching at an early age—even in 4th grade, I was helping classmates with their math homework. This passion led me through roles as a chess instructor (complete with wizard costume), a mathematics teacher at Holy Trinity Catholic School where students nicknamed me "Batman," and eventually into software engineering where I continue to find joy in making complex concepts accessible.
My teaching philosophy has always been simple: meet people where they are and show them why it matters. I remember explaining exponents through Minecraft's stack limit of 64—the kids went absolutely wild with excitement about math. Some students even came up afterward wanting to create their own lessons connecting area calculations to Minecraft blocks. This ability to bridge the gap between complex ideas and real-world applications drives my approach to software engineering.
Currently, I'm diving deep into strategic thinking through books like Modern Poker Theory and The Pickleball Mindset, while serving as a Six Zero pickleball ambassador and coaching local players. Named after Bruce Lee, I practice martial arts and embrace the philosophy of continuous improvement—whether debugging code, perfecting a serve, or volunteering at the Oregon Food Bank where my personal experience with homelessness helps me connect authentically with those we serve.
At Holy Trinity, I became so beloved by students that eating lunch with me became a coveted privilege—even kids who'd never been in my class would work to earn that opportunity. The secret wasn't just making learning fun; it was making every single student feel heard and valued. When the school needed fundraising, I didn't hesitate to dress up as Batman and run through the neighborhood, because sometimes the best solutions require a little creativity and a lot of heart.
I approach challenges with intellectual curiosity and humility—always ready to ask the right questions, adapt when presented with better solutions, and acknowledge when I've been wrong. This growth mindset, whether applied to mastering a new programming language, analyzing poker hands, or perfecting pickleball strategy, enables me to build solutions that truly serve people's needs rather than defending predetermined approaches. The best idea wins, regardless of whose it was.
What Drives Me
Educator at Heart
From helping classmates in 4th grade to teaching as a wizard chess instructor and beloved "Batman" math teacher, I believe the best solutions are the ones everyone can understand and build upon.
Strategic Thinker
From chess and poker strategy to pickleball coaching and martial arts training, I apply analytical frameworks and strategic thinking to solve complex problems creatively.
Growth Mindset
Every challenge is a learning opportunity. I'm comfortable saying "I don't know" and excited to figure it out together with the team.
Community Builder
As a Six Zero ambassador, pickleball coach, and Oregon Food Bank volunteer, I love creating environments where people feel valued and can do their best work.
Core Values
Innovation
Constantly exploring new technologies and approaches to solve problems more effectively.
Communication
Translating complex technical concepts into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences.
Intellectual Humility
Embracing curiosity, asking the right questions, and adapting when better solutions emerge.
Through My Lens
I love capturing people when their genuine emotions are shining—not when they're posing. Photography is my way of memorializing the small events that are incredibly powerful, preserving those authentic moments that tell the real story.
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Ready to Collaborate?
I'm always open to discussing new opportunities, technical challenges, and innovative projects.