Hey, I'm Drake!

My Journey into Tech:
I didn’t follow the typical path into tech—but then again, who says I’m typical? For over ten years, I was a professional photographer and Photoshop wizard, sharpening my creative skills and working with businesses to bring their visual visions to life. But as my business grew, I realized I needed something more—something that would help me streamline processes, improve my workflow, and provide more value to my clients. Enter web development. What started as a curiosity quickly became a full-blown passion. I enrolled in a bootcamp to dive deeper, but after months of sending out applications and getting only a handful of interviews, I realized I needed to level up my skills to be competitive in today’s job market. So, I made the decision to enroll in the Software Engineering program at WGU, where I’m currently working on my Bachelor’s of Science degree. Along the way, I’ve continued to build, learn, and grow, experimenting with new ideas, technologies, and apps in my spare time.

Balancing Life and Learning:
In addition to coding and studying, I’m a full-time stay-at-home dad, which means juggling my coursework, family responsibilities, and side projects. It’s a chaotic but rewarding experience that fuels my desire to create practical, useful tools that make life just a little bit easier. Whether I’m working on my latest app or troubleshooting parenting challenges, I bring the same focus, creativity, and determination to every task.

Passion Outside of Coding:
Beyond my screen, I’m also passionate about gardening, especially growing super-hot chili peppers. They’re not just for heat—they’re an inspiration for my projects! As a self-proclaimed “pepperhead,” I’ve started building apps and tools that center around my love for spicy food, blending my technical skills with my hobby in a way that’s both fun and functional.

Looking Ahead:
Now, I’m seeking new opportunities to bring my diverse skill set to the table and contribute to a team that values creativity, persistence, and problem-solving. As I continue to grow in my career, I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned and collaborate with others who share my passion for building innovative solutions.