CV

About Me

I'm a full stack software engineer with experience in many industries. I choose my tools carefully to provide robust solutions. I also have a great deal of experience with Linux systems on both server and embedded with my distro of choice being NixOS. In my spare time I write microcontroller firmware using Rust.

Experience

Smart IT (2006 - 2013)

My first job was working for software consultancy primarily specialising in C#/ASP.NET SQL Server based web services, including warehouse management, loan application processing, and food delivery services.

Later I moved on more towards PHP/MySQL CMS and E-Commerce sites and JavaScript single page apps.

Also included bespoke tailoring of OpenERP systems (now Odoo).

Freelance Software Engineer (2013 - Present)

My freelance business I offered consulting and bespoke web app development. One of my specialisations was advanced frontend apps using TypeScript, WebGL and service workers to compete with native apps.

Sitedesk (2014 - 2025)

Full stack web and infrastructure engineer (AWS) originally porting a native C++/Objective C app to Progressive Web App (PWA) using TypeScript, WebGL and Service Workers. The role gravitated to general support and feature development.

Manc.JS (Voluntary) (2016 - 2019)

I took over the role of organising meetups for Manchester's primary JavaScript meetup. This included finding speakers and planing competitive coding exercises. I offered many talks on topics such as TypeScript, WebAssembly and Service Workers.

Capsule CRM (2016)

Frontend engineer working with EmberJS on a bespoke CRM system.

Spelling Shed (2019 - 2021)

Porting of rapidly developed application to modern architecture with TypeScript and Redis, and implementation of CI/CD system with Terraform. Later the role evolved to the coaching of junior developers who were joining the team.

Side Projects

Web Blocks

I wrote a code learning tool disgused as a Minecraft game to aid me as a STEM ambassador.

Home Labing

I run a fleet of servers in the home, all running NixOS and removing my dependency of cloud infrastructure.

Embedded Devices

I tinker with ESP32's and Raspberry Pi's to run various services and IoT devices i.e. sensors, lights, signage.

https://chrisdell.info/using-rust-to-build-a-1-dollar-handheld-gaming-console/
https://chrisdell.info/simulating-a-usb-midi-device-with-an-esp32-using-rust/

Solar and Battery storage

I built my own home battery and installed my own solar array to reduce my electricity costs by 90%.

Hackspace Infrastructure

I look after Leigh hackspace's server infrastructure, again using NixOS.

Hobbies

Teaching

At the hackspace I spend much of my time teaching coding and electronics to both children and adults.

Electronics

Electronics was my first passion before we got the family computer in 1995. I love tinkering microcontrollers because it intersects both my interests in software and circuits.

3D Printing and Woodworking

I like building and CAD'ing things. I have a 3D printer which I have modified with a custom designed tool head and Klipper firmware. At the hackspace I am learning how to effectively build things out of wood.

Running

I was never much of a runner but after a year of training I now participate in my local Parkrun 5K every Saturday morning.

Martial Arts

I have been regularly attending classes in Krav Maga for many years to keep fit and to increase confidence. It has helped me greatly with leaving my comfort zone.