History
I have been programming computers since 1983, when I first had access to one in 4th grade (photo right). Starting with BASIC, I also soon learned Logo, and was thrilled to be able to produce more complex graphics. I was introduced to Pascal at computer camp (photo below left). As it was the only computer course offered at the time, I took it again in high school and yet again in college because it was required. I also learned C++, along with some 8086 Assembly. More recently I have done a lot of work with XHTML, CSS, PHP, MySQL and Javascript. I am constantly learning, and feel very fortunate to be able to use the internet to learn about anything I want at my own pace.
My first computer-related job was at the local computer store during high school. This grew into a career in computer service and repair at several companies in the Burlington area as well as Middlebury. As times changed, the problems became more predictable, frequently involving virus removal. I moved on, working as a network and database administrator for a high school, maintaining the database of grades, schedules, and other critical information. I started doing professional web programming in 2001 as an employee for a web design firm in Brattleboro, VT. Since then I have mainly been doing freelancing, often working as a contractor for web design companies. I have also enjoyed jobs doing bicycle repair and carpentry.
Philosophy
I believe in efficiency. Programmers have traditionally been taught that the most efficient solution is the best one. However, many seem to have forgotten this in the modern environment of fast computers, huge storage and high bandwidth communications. I also strongly support open standards, as I believe that a resource as critical as the internet should not be controlled by a private corporation's selfish policies. Sites that are programmed with efficient, standards-based code work better and are more likely to generate good search results. Additionally, there are an increasing number of devices being used to access the internet that don't have the traditional large screen, such as cell phones. A semantic web is forming, which will allow searches with much more complexity than ever before, and it is crucial to produce sites that will work with these new standards.
I also believe in efficiency in my personal life. My girlfriend and I enjoy living an efficient, healthy lifestyle. We don't own a car, and are often seen hauling large objects around town on our bicycle trailers. We live in a duplex downtown with a large garden in the back yard where we grow organic vegetables and flowers. We enjoy being close to friends, stores and the incredible trails surrounding our town. When you spend money with me you can be confident that most of it will be spent locally.