About me
I’m a software engineer and cybersecurity enthusiast based in Ireland. I have a BSc in Computer Science with a focus on Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics, and I’m currently honing my skills in contemporary software development, cloud platforms, and DevOps.
I enjoy building practical tools and applications – from web apps and desktop software to automation scripts and puzzles – and I particularly like projects where I can combine secure design, clean code, and automation.
My interest in technology began early, writing code on the ZX Spectrum, and later on machines like the Commodore 64, Apple II, and BBC Micro. Those first experiments sparked a curiosity about how systems work — a curiosity that has stayed with me throughout every stage of my career.
I spent more than three decades working in telecommunications, IT support, and network engineering, gaining a deep appreciation for reliability, problem-solving, and clear communication. After returning to study and completing a BSc in Computer Science, I transitioned fully into modern software engineering.
Today I work with Java, cloud platforms, DevOps tools, and full-stack web technologies, building systems that are robust, maintainable, and grounded in real-world experience. Whether I’m designing backend components, automating infrastructure, or experimenting in my home lab, I enjoy exploring new technologies and turning complex challenges into practical solutions.
A Return to Learning…
After decades working hands-on with technology, I reached a point where I felt my skills had become a little dated and spread too widely across many different areas.
I wanted to rebuild from a stronger foundation — and finally earn the degree I’d always intended to pursue.
I started that journey with the Software Development course at Templemore College of Further Education (TCFE). For anyone returning to education after a long break, I can’t recommend it highly enough. The teachers are excellent, the environment is welcoming, and the progression links with SETU (formerly WIT) and TUS make it a great launchpad into university-level computing.
Inspired by the Software Development course at TCFE, I applied to, and was offered a place on the Applied Computing course at Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT). During my time there, the college was upgraded to university status and became the South East Technological University (SETU). The Applied Computing degree was transformed into a common core Computer Science degree with specialist streams.
I chose the Computer Security and Data Forensics option below. I like a challenge.
BSc. Computer Science (Security and Data Forensics)
I completed a Level 7 BSc in Computer Science at South East Technological University, specialising in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics. It was a hands-on, practical programme that blended secure software development with a deep exploration of how systems work — from operating systems and networks to cloud services and digital investigations.
I studied applied cryptography, secure scripting, and forensic techniques using tools like Kali Linux, Wireshark, and Snort, and gained experience analysing both network traffic and file system artefacts. The degree also introduced DevOps workflows, cloud technologies, and full-stack web development, all built on a solid grounding in mathematics, algorithms, and systems programming.
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
Because my Computer Science pathway at SETU centred on security and digital forensics, I selected AWS Cloud Practitioner as an elective to build complementary cloud skills. This provided a strong grounding in cloud architecture, compute and storage services, IAM, and operational best practices.
BSc. (Hons) in Contemporary Software Development
I am currently studying for a Level 8 BSc (Hons) in Contemporary Software Development at Atlantic Technological University, with expected completion in May 2026. The programme builds on my previous degree by expanding my expertise in modern software engineering practices, DevOps workflows, and cross-platform application development.
My studies focus on object-oriented design, full-stack development, C# and .NET technologies, and the implementation of secure, scalable CI/CD pipelines. Through hands-on modules in .NET Core, ASP.NET, MAUI/Xamarin, cloud deployment, and automated testing, I am gaining practical experience in building performant, maintainable applications across desktop, mobile, and web platforms.
The course also emphasises engineering culture, agile processes, and software lifecycle management, and will culminate in a major independent project demonstrating technical depth, architectural thinking, and problem-solving ability.