Joshua Koudys - Software Engineering Lead
Seasoned software engineering leader with a proven track record in building and managing high-performing teams, designing complex distributed systems, and delivering innovative solutions that drive business impact.
Transforming Legal Tech with Rust and AI
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Rust-powered Backend
Designed and built a distributed legal tech application using Rust, a systems programming language known for its performance, safety, and concurrency. Leveraged Rust's strengths to create a highly scalable and secure backend that can run across multiple servers while managing sensitive legal data.
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Hybrid Client Architecture
Implemented a hybrid TypeScript/React client application that works seamlessly with the Rust backend. Utilized RxJS for a reducer-style state management and WebAssembly for performance-critical tasks, ensuring a fast and responsive user experience.
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AI-powered Insights
Integrated advanced AI capabilities, including OpenAI APIs, to power the application's contract review and analysis features. Developed custom machine learning models using Rust_burn to categorize legal data and provide actionable insights to lawyers and legal professionals.
Building a Web Consultancy with Cutting-Edge Tech
Embracing the New
As the Director of Qaribou Inc., I led a team that specialized in creating modern, innovative web solutions. We were early adopters of technologies like React, GraphQL, and TypeScript, building some of the first React-based websites in 2013.
Bridging Legacy Systems
Our expertise also extended to working with legacy systems and codebases. We used technologies like REST, Google Cloud Functions, and GraphQL to create headless server layers, allowing us to safely migrate and modernize outdated applications.
Geodata and Mapping
One of our areas of focus was building geospatial solutions, leveraging technologies like PostGIS and custom React components to create advanced mapping and location-based applications.
Empowering the Next Generation of Developers
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Mentoring at Lighthouse Labs
As a mentor and lecturer at Lighthouse Labs, I had the opportunity to teach and guide aspiring developers through intensive 8-week bootcamp programs. I focused on imparting strong fundamental programming skills, while also fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment.
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Curriculum Design at George Brown
At George Brown College, I designed and delivered curriculum for their Continuing Education program, drawing on resources like Eloquent JavaScript. This experience allowed me to develop my skills in relating technical concepts to non-technical audiences and creating engaging learning experiences.
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Hands-on Instruction
Throughout my teaching roles, I honed my ability to deliver engaging lectures, run hands-on coding sessions, and provide personalized feedback to help students of all backgrounds and skill levels reach their full potential.
Mastering Enterprise Software at IBM
WebSphere Support Engineer
As a Staff Software Engineer at IBM WebSphere, I gained extensive experience in supporting and scaling enterprise-level middleware applications for major clients. I worked closely with both technical and non-technical stakeholders to ensure smooth operations and successful product deployments.
Database Kernel Development
Prior to my WebSphere role, I worked as a Software Developer at IBM DB2, where I contributed low-level C code to the database kernel. This experience gave me a deep understanding of how complex enterprise software systems are architected and optimized.
Delivering Client Solutions
Throughout my time at IBM, I demonstrated my ability to travel on-site, lead short-term teams, and ensure that clients could successfully scale up and manage their busy seasons. This client-centric approach has been a hallmark of my professional career.
Education and Technical Expertise
Rust
5+ years of experience in Rust, my preferred programming language for building high-performance, reliable, and concurrent systems.
React
11+ years of experience with React, a leading JavaScript library for building user interfaces.
TypeScript
7+ years of experience with TypeScript, a superset of JavaScript that adds static typing and other features.
Machine Learning
3+ years of experience with PyTorch and integrating advanced AI/ML capabilities, including OpenAI APIs, into my projects.
Education and Certifications
Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.), University of Western Ontario
Achieved Dean's List recognition throughout my 4-year program, demonstrating strong academic performance. Took a 18-month internship with IBM between my 3rd and 4th years, gaining valuable industry experience.
Agile Methodologies and Kanban
I'm a strong believer in the principles outlined in the Agile Manifesto, and have extensive experience leading teams using Agile frameworks like Kanban. I prioritize individuals and interactions over processes and tools, and strive to create efficient, collaborative, and adaptable development workflows.
Continuous Integration and Deployment
Throughout my career, I've implemented robust CI/CD pipelines to automate the build, test, and deployment of my software projects. I've worked with tools like Bitbucket Pipelines and Travis CI to ensure reliable and consistent delivery of high-quality code.
Transforming Legacy Systems with Cutting-Edge Tech
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Legacy Modernization
As a consultant, I've developed deep expertise in modernizing legacy systems and codebases. By leveraging technologies like GraphQL, REST, and serverless functions, I've been able to create headless server layers that enable the safe migration and integration of outdated applications.
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Bridging the Gap
My experience with both legacy and cutting-edge technologies allows me to serve as a bridge between old and new systems. I'm adept at understanding the constraints and requirements of legacy infrastructure, while also implementing innovative solutions that leverage the latest advancements in software engineering.
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Delivering Seamless Experiences
By combining my technical skills, industry knowledge, and client-centric approach, I've been able to deliver seamless user experiences that bring together the best of both legacy and modern systems. This has allowed my clients to unlock the full potential of their technology investments.
