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Hi! I'm Stephen.

I want to make Hearthware - a term for software crafted by a close-knit, collaborative team designed to meaningfully improve the world.

About

Hearthware.org is a work in progress, started after I found myself seeking a deeper sense of fulfillment in my work. I became a software engineer five years ago because I love solving novel problems with small, dedicated teams. While that hasn't changed at all, now I find myself wanting to feel more connected to and invested in the software I build, which could look like anything from creating tools for direct humanitarian aid or developing innovative solutions that modernize industries and improve lives.

Throughout my career, I've focused on transforming vague problems into fully fleshed-out solutions, designing greenfield projects from the ground up, and collaborating with cross-functional teams in a variety of environments: a small startup that eventually got acquired, America’s #1 audio company, and a mid-sized digital agency for enterprise-scale brands in regulated industries. I love the feeling of digging into a difficult problem in order to ask good questions that create clarity out of confusion.

Even in my free time I'm solving community-oriented puzzles, whether that means rock climbing, playing board games, or watching groups of friends play Dungeons & Dragons. My passion for connecting with others through shared complex interests is even what led me to study philosophy at a small discussion-based college, and why I became a teacher after graduating. I love being a software engineer, and I’m eager to use my problem-solving skills to create meaningful solutions that help make the world a better and more welcoming place.

Experience

  • Senior Software Engineer

    June 2023 - Present

    VShift

    Architect and develop web solutions, focusing on seamless integration with content management systems and headless platforms. Optimize website performance and collaborate with Fortune 100 clients and cross-functional teams to deliver projects from concept to market.

    TypeScriptNextReactNodeGraphQLDrupalContentfulAEM

  • Software Engineer

    February 2021 - June 2023

    iHeartMedia

    Led technical planning and collaborated with teams to translate product requirements into engineering tasks. Built and maintained full-stack features, mentored junior engineers, and optimized database performance. Developed reusable components and implemented state management to enhance application performance.

    TypeScriptReactNodeGraphQLPostgreSQLPythonAWS

  • Lead Software Engineer

    March 2020 - March 2021

    Cake

    Designed and built full-stack web applications to improve user experience and operational efficiency, resulting in significant reductions in customer support time. Implemented cost-effective solutions and worked closely with leadership in a fast-paced startup environment to iterate on features and manage all aspects of development and deployment.

    ReactNodeExpressMySQL

  • 4th/5th Grade Teacher

    July 2018 - July 2019

    Tom Field Elementary

    Led engaging lessons across all core subjects, fostering a love for learning and boosting academic performance by 15%. Collaborated with fellow educators to implement school-wide initiatives and improvements. Encouraged students to explore coding and problem-solving skills, earning recognition for Social-Emotional Learning practices.

  • Honors Geometry / History Teacher

    July 2016 - July 2018

    Chandler Preparatory Academy

    Developed dynamic lesson plans for Honors Geometry and History, leading students to achieve top standardized test scores within a network of 11 schools. Played a key role in curriculum development and provided motivational support to students writing and defending theses.

  • Tutor

    January 2014 - May 2015

    Breakthrough Collaborative

    Provided personalized instruction in SAT, AP exams, and various subjects, with a focus on helping underserved students become the first in their families to attend college. Mentored students from diverse backgrounds, guiding them to a 20% average increase in test scores, and inspiring a strong commitment to academic achievement and college readiness.

Projects

Design inspired by Brittany Chiang
Color palette Inspired by my climbing shoes