Hans-Josef Eberth

Blockchain Developer | Cryptocurrency & Security Expert
Professional Background:
    Blockchain Engineer, IBM (2018-2023):
        Developed comprehensive implementations of blockchain technologies, from architecture design to smart contract deployment.
        Created and innovated decentralized applications (dApps) based on Ethereum and Hyperledger frameworks, using programming languages like JavaScript, Solidity, Node.js, and Python.
        Collaborated with a wide range of stakeholders, including the operations and business teams in order to ensure successful implementation of projects.
    Cryptography & Security Analyst, Cryptosoft (2014-2018):
        Aided in the design and development of secure systems for financial institutions, transactions, and data authentication.
        Applied concepts of cryptography and security technologies, including encryption methods, authentication protocols, and hashing algorithms, to protect sensitive data.
        Utilized open-source tools such as SELinux and OpenSSL to strengthen the security of blockchain networks.

Skill Set:
    Programming Languages: Proficient in JavaScript, Solidity, Node.js, Python, PHP, and C/C++ for blockchain development.
    Platforms & Protocols: Experienced with Ethereum, Hyperledger Fabric, Open Network Architecture, and Proof of Stake.
    Cryptography & Security: Skilled in encryption algorithms, hashing techniques, authentication protocols, and security tools like SELinux and OpenSSL.
    Design & Architecture: Adept in developing blockchain architectures for applications, with a focus on scalability, performance, and cost-efficiency.

Additional Interests:
    Research & Development: Active contributor to blockchain-based research projects, ranging from consensus models to decentralized finance (DeFi) solutions.
    Education & Mentoring: Mentored junior-level developers on blockchain development and have taught workshops on cryptography and security protocols.


Vesna Segebahn

Database Developer | Champion of Responsible Technology
Professional Background:
    Database Developer, Atlassian (2020-present):
        Responsible for ensuring the smooth operation and performance of the company’s databases, with a particular focus on data security.
        Developed in-house databases using SQL Server, MySQL, and MongoDB to store, manage, and analyze data.
        Assisted in the development of internal tools for data compatibility and replication.
    Database Intern, Oracle (2019):
        Developed and managed databases for a financial software application, optimizing the design and performance of the system.
        Fixed common errors in the application, such as data crashes and security vulnerabilities.
        Collaborated with the customer support team for managing queries and troubleshooting.

Skill Set:
    Languages & Platforms: Highly experienced in SQL for data extracts and manipulation, JavaScript for scripting, and Knex and Sequelize for database migrations.
    Database Tools: Advanced knowledge of MongoDB, Oracle, and PostgreSQL databases, and familiarity with the application of Artificial Intelligence to databases when needed.
    Security: Handled sensitive data securely and adopted a proactive approach to data security, patching potential vulnerabilities before there was an issue.
    Database Analysis: Performed complex analytics and testing to tune database performance and fulfill the Service Level Agreement.

Additional Interests:
    Community Involvement: Frequent contributor to the open source community, developing a number of small databases and deploying solutions to aid in debugging and the development process.
    Mentorship & Education: Regularly provide talks to the technical community focusing on the security measures of databases and how to build a successful database project.


Björn Kambs

Web Developer | Focused on Efficient Web Design Solutions
Professional Background:
    Senior Web Developer, Apple (2016-2021):
        Led a team of 5 web developers, driving best practices in web development and coding standards.
        Developed several web applications and optimized front-end performance with HTML, CSS and JavaScript.
        Interfaced with project stakeholders to craft custom solutions for each website requirements.
    Junior Web Developer, IBM (2013-2016):
        Architected and build websites for a portfolio of corporate clients, using technologies like jQuery and Ajax for interactive web design.
        Developed modular web designs with scalability in mind, treating web optimization, browser compatibility, and design aesthetics as top priorities.
        Assisted in the migration and optimization of numerous legacy websites to ensure a secure and reliable user experience.

Skill Set:
    Languages & Platforms: Proficient in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, jQuery, Ajax and PHP.
    Design & Layout: Skilled in designing highly efficient web layouts, optimizing page loading times, and ensuring responsiveness and compatibility across different browsers.
    Content Management Systems (CMS): Proficient in managing the development and maintenance of websites with popular content management systems like WordPress and Drupal.

Additional Interests:
    Open Source Development: Contributed to several popular open source projects focused on enhancing the web development user experience.
    Education: Worked with students to teach the principles of web design and development, emphasizing the importance of scalability and optimization.


Andrei Buchholz

Cloud Architect | Leveraging Data to Develop Scalable Solutions

Professional Background:
    Lead Cloud Architect, Microsoft (2018-2023):
        Lectured a team of 15 cloud engineers on the best practices of cloud infrastructure engineering and design.
        Implemented end-to-end solutions for customers, leveraging ML algorithms and data analysis to enhance scalability and security.
        Leveraged data to develop cost-effective solutions for clients, meeting stringent service level agreements (SLAs) with best practice.
    Senior Cloud Engineer, Amazon (2014-2018):
        Acted as a technical advisor to customer engineers, demonstrating the advantages of using cloud services to manage data-driven environments.
        Developed multi-cloud strategies for enterprise projects, with an eye for cost optimization and capability expansion.
        Actively promoted the use of automation tools to reduce risk and maintain availability and performance standards.

Skill Set:
    Languages & Platforms: Proficient in Python, SQL, and Bash for scripting, and JavaScript for web development.
    Cloud Services: Experienced in using major cloud services such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.
    Security Protocols: Experienced in encryption protocols, TLS/SSL, and network Forensics.
    Storage & Optimization: Experienced in using caching and ORM solutions to store and manage data and improve application performance.

Additional Interests:
    Advisor: Regular speaker and career coach for the Silicon Valley Careers program, guiding students on the different aspects of the cloud infrastructure field.
    Community Involvement: For the past 5 years, actively mentored a group of high school students about the necessary skills for a cloud architect.


Heinz-Josef Weinhold

Software Architect | Innovative Solutions for Complex Technical Problems
Professional Background:
    Software Architect and Consultant, Oracle (2016-2021):
        Designed and developed high-performance, distributed software systems for Fortune 500 companies.
        Specialized in cloud-based solutions involving technologies such as microservices, web services, and containerization.
        Configured DevOps pipelines to ensure proper delivery of applications to the client’s environment.
    Software Engineer, Microsoft (2010-2016):
        Worked on the Windows Operating System project, with responsibility for the development of key features related to system security and memory management.
        Implemented various application programming interfaces (APIs) and exposed existing internal APIs in the project to external customers.
        Provided technical support to system administrators and users through remote or on-site troubleshooting.

Skill Set:
    Programing Languages: Proficient in C++ and Java, with extensive experience developing complex software architectures.
    Platforms: Experienced in Java Enterprise Edition (EE) for distributed application development and Windows OS systems.
    AWS: Experienced in designing software architectures for cloud-based systems involving Apache, Tomcat, and Kubernetes.
    Database Management: Experienced with both Oracle and MS SQL Server for complex database design, querying, and optimization.

Additional Interests:
    Community Involvement: Frequently participates in hackathons, helping teams design better software solutions.
    Exploring different languages: Currently studying Spanish and French.
    Writing: Contributed to several technical magazines, written tutorials, and given lectures Strictly focused on the Software Engineering field.


Ingried Pruschke

API Developer with Expertise in Open Source Platforms | Work to Create Interoperable and Secure Systems
Professional Background:
    Lead API Developer, Amazon Web Services (2018-2023):
        Worked closely with a team of 10 developers, focusing on a dynamic approach to integration.
        Our team developed cloud-based APIs that connected systems for data-sharing, using tools like Scala for cross-platform scripting and Cypher for data modeling.
        Regularly liaised with business and security teams to understand the necessary data access standards and to regularly refine our systems.
    API Developer, Microsoft (2014-2018):
        Part of the Office 365 team, assisting in open source integration using JavaScript for API programming and Python for multitasking processes.
        Engineered functionality to connect systems without sacrificing speed or functionality, which, over time, resulted in improved interoperability across much of the Office 365.
        Participated in workshops, bringing awareness to security-related updates and clarifying complexity with non-technical teams.

Skill Set:
    Languages & Platforms: Experienced in JavaScript for programming, Python for scripting, and Scala for client-side task programming.
    Database Systems: Familiar with MongoDB and Cypher for data storage and modeling.
    Systems Architecture: Experienced in creating endpoint-based systems between various services.
    Security & Authentication: Knowledgeable of secure data operations procedures, tokenization methods and industry-standard authentication protocols.

Additional Interests:
    Community Involvement: Contributor to multiple open-source projects, offering guidance to users and helping the community with resources.
    Education & Training: Collaborate with tech professionals in providing workshops and other training activities on upholding security practices when building APIs.


Hans-Erich Holzapfel

Game Developer | Passionate about Creating Engaging Experiences
Professional Background:
    Lead Game Developer, Electronic Arts (2018-2023):
        Led a team of 10 developers towards producing a highly immersive online multiplayer game.
        Developed game logic and technical design documents using C++ and Python based on player feedback and UX studies.
        Worked in conjunction with a UX team to ensure a smooth user interface experience, and with a QA team to validate any game-altering features.
    Game Designer, Ubisoft (2014-2018):
        Part of the game publisher's development team, helping to shape the design of a 3D open world game.
        Optimized graphics and rendered visuals using proprietary software to ensure the best possible rendering of the game environment.
        Testing of new game mechanics to ensure the gameplay remained engaging and engaging for extended periods of time.

Skill Set:
    Development Languages: Experienced in Python, HTML, JavaScript, and C++ for scripting and development.
    Game Engines & Platforms: Skilled in the use of Unity and Unreal Engine for game design and deployment.
    Simulation & Testing: Utilize virtual gaming environment simulators to test game mechanics and dimensions.
    Physics & Animation: Team player, having helped to create detailed physics models using tools such as Havok for realistic motion and play styles.

Additional Interests:
    Moderating Online Communities: Volunteer moderator for popular online gaming platforms, including Steam.
    eSport Events: Routinely participate in organizing and setting up international eSport tournaments.


Kornelia Kruschwitz

Database Administrator | Professional Services | Insightful Problem-Solver

Professional Background:
    Database Administrator, Jumbo Corporation (2018-2021):
        Designed and implemented databases for the company's suite of customer management systems.
        Developed database solutions to ensure the reliable and secure storage, retrieval, and processing of large chunks of business data.
        Analyzed user requirements, identified and investigated data sources, and translated business requirements into database designs.
    Database Intern, Filetan Research (2016-2018):
        Developed ETL pipelines, structured data validations, implemented process optimizations and built automation tools.
        Conducted data integrity checks and troubleshooted system malfunctions.
        Collaborated closely with data team members to maintain high-quality data products and performance metrics.

Skill Set:
    Database Management: Experienced in database architecture, design, and manipulation using tools such as Oracle, SQL Server, MySQL, and PostgreSQL.
    Database Security: Applied best practices for ensuring secure data transfers, applying backup procedures, and managing access privileges.
    Business Intelligence: Employed Tableau and Power BI to provide stakeholders with meaningful insights from large data sets.
    Innovation & Optimization: Used metrics and dashboard reports to identify opportunities for improvement and automate workflows.

Additional Interests:
    Team Collaboration: Worked closely with analysts, software developers, and other subject matter experts to understand how databases can support application development and improve the user experience.
    Open Source Contributions: Regularly contribute to open source projects related to database administration and development.


Christa Möchlichen

Network Engineer with a Focus on Crew Network Design | Passionate about Objective Systems Management
Professional Background:
    Lead Network Engineer, Amazon (2018-2023):
        Managed a team of 15 engineers to design and optimize public and private networks worldwide.
        Developed an application-based system for crew management that enabled efficient network routing.
        Liaised closely with software development teams to ensure scalability of the crew network design.
    Network Analyst, Microsoft (2014-2018):
        Part of the Network Services team, providing technical support and guidance to ensure smooth network operations.
        Collaborated with internal and external teams to ensure high-level performance, availability and security of local area networks (LAN).
        Trained networking professionals on the implementation of cloud computing for business networking.

Skill Set:
    Network Design: Experienced in IP-based network architecture, troubleshooting and system optimization.
    Network Protocols: Proficient in TCP, UDP, ICMP, SNMP and other network protocols.
    Firewall Security: Skilled in designing and implementing defense systems for secure access control.
    Network Routing: Experienced in controlling data flow between different network segments.

Additional Interests:
    Industry Involvement: Fostered relationships with industry professionals in the networking field, through conferences and seminars.
    Professional Development: Actively seek out and experiment with new networking technologies.


Irmela Schlosser

API Developer | Experienced in Building Responsible Solutions
Professional Background:
    Lead API Developer, Amazon Web Services (2018-2023):
        Led a team of 10 developers in creating RESTful APIs for AWS customers. Managed API performance and security to ensure optimal speed and reliability.
        Developed custom APIs for clients using Java and Node.js.
        Liaised with front-end and product development teams to ensure API design best practices were being followed.
    Software Developer, Microsoft (2014-2018):
        Part of the Network Security team and responsible for designing monitoring tools using C#, Javascript, and HTML.
        Developed a service request system using React and Node.js that automated the process and eliminated redundant tasks.
        Engaged in team workshops, highlighting the importance of user-friendly APIs for customer success.

Skill Set:
    Languages & Platforms: Experienced in Java, Node.js, C#, JavaScript, HTML/CSS, and React.
    API Design & Development: Specialized in building customizable APIs for customers with an emphasis on performance, security, and scalability.
    Monitoring & Analysis: Implemented automated testing and monitoring tools to ensure API performance and to detect potential errors.
    Troubleshooting: Ability to identify root causes of API issues and quickly diagnose solutions.

Additional Interests:
    Open Source Collaboration: Contributed extensively to open source projects in the API development field, such as developing packages for PHP and Node.js.
    Community Involvement: Actively involved in hackathons and technology-oriented networking events, where I mentor new developers.


Margit Ernst

Front-End Developer with Knowledge of Cross-Platform Development | Passionate Advocate for UI/UX Design
Professional Background:
    Senior Front-End Developer, Amazon (2019-Present):
        Developed a variety of websites and web applications, utilizing HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
        Worked closely with the software engineering team to provide an intuitive end-user experience, as well as with the UX/UI designers to create amazing visual experiences.
        Responsible for implementing responsive web design, making sure websites render well on a variety of devices, while debugging and problem solving to ensure seamless integration with software engineering components.
    Front-End Developer, Apple (2013-2019):
        Led projects to create and maintain web applications, consistently focused on optimizing existing solutions, while working with different stakeholders to ensure efficient delivery.
        Actively contributed to the creation of complex web-based solutions, incorporating modern technologies to create dynamic user experiences, while addressing customer feedback in a timely manner.
        Employed a cross-platform approach to ensure applications ran on multiple browsers, delivering a consistent experience.

Skill Set:
    HTML & CSS: Experienced in HMTL5, CSS3, SASS, Less and JavaScript to create web-based user interfaces.
    Layout & Design: Skilled in the use of modern CSS frameworks such as Bootstrap, tailwind, UIKit, Materialize, and Bulma.
    Cross-Platform: Proficient in the development of cross-browser and cross-platform solutions.
    Side-Libraries: Knowledgeable in the use of JavaScript libraries such as jQuery, Angular, React, Vue, and Node.js to create interactive experiences.

Additional Interests:
    UI/UX Design: Volunteer at the Seattle Web Design Group, instructing others on modern design best practices for websites and web applications.
    Community Involvement: Mentor students in college by providing beneficial advice on the Front-end Development industry and modern technological trends.


Mandy Meyer

Cloud Architect with Emphasis on Responsible Analytics | Experienced with a Wide Range of Cloud Services
Professional Background:
    Cloud Architect, AWS (2018-2023):
        Developed energy-efficient, distributed cloud solutions on the AWS platform, using services such as S3, EC2, and Lambda to deliver fast and reliable cloud-based solutions to users.
        Constructed automated scripts on Terraform to spin up cloud instances with complex architectures quickly and reliably.
        Collaborated with engineering teams to architect a resource-efficient environment for ideal scalability and reliability.
    Systems Engineer, Microsoft (2014-2018):
        Part of the Azure Cloud Services team, supporting the development of cloud solutions that could match user requirements and regulations.
        Worked with the development teams to optimize the performance of the cloud environment, through virtualization, autoscaling, and other cloud strategies.
        Monitored user performance to ensure a secure and compliant use of cloud resources through the application of best practices.

Skill Set:
    Cloud Platforms: Proficient in AWS and Azure cloud architecture, leveraging services for distributed microservices-based solutions for optimal scalability.
    Infrastructure Automation: Experienced in infrastructure as code using Terraform for server provisioning and Jenkins for continuous deployment and integration.
    Script Languages: Familiar with Python, PowerShell, and Bash scripting for automating cloud activities.
    Security & Compliance: Adept in deploying secure and critical cloud solutions that meet specific compliance regulations.

Additional Interests:
    Community Involvement: Have held presentations at AWS re:Invent, advocating for responsible utilization of cloud services and resources.
    Mentorship & Education: Completed several training courses in cloud architecture to share best practices with fellow engineers.


Raymond Kallert

Business Analyst with Emphasis on Data Analysis | Advocate for Responsible Use of Data
Professional Background:
    Lead Business Analyst, Microsoft (2018-2023):
        Worked closely with a team of 10 business analysts, focusing on a data-driven approach to problem-solving.
        Our team used data mining, data modeling, and visual analytics to evaluate vast data sets and implement better data solutions.
        Regularly liaised with user experience and product management teams to understand customer behavior and to iteratively refine our models.
    Data Analyst, Google (2014-2018):
        Part of the Analytics team, assisting in data cleaning and modeling using Excel and Tableau for visual analytics.
        Analyzed customer data to suggest targeted marketing strategies, which, over time, contributed to more efficient customer acquisition.
        Engaged in team workshops, highlighting the importance of data-driven decisions in customer strategy.

Skill Set:
    Languages & Platforms: Experienced in Visual Basic for scripting, Excel for data modeling, and Tableau for data visualization.
    Data Analysis Tools: Familiar with Power BI and Marketo for marketing automation and Oracle for data querying.
    Statistical Analysis: Regularly employ techniques such as clustering, market basket analysis, and funnel tracking to validate data hypotheses.
    Visualization: Utilize tools like Matplotlib and Seaborn in Python to represent data visually, aiding clearer communication with non-technical teams.

Additional Interests:
    Community Involvement: Volunteered at Data Science for Social Good, supporting local nonprofits in understanding how data can be leveraged for their causes.
    Mentorship & Education: Occasionally mentor newcomers to the data analysis field and contribute articles to clarify foundational data science concepts for beginners.


Joanna Ackermann

Business Analyst | Data-Driven Decision Maker
Professional Background:
    Senior Business Analyst, ABC Corporation (2015-2021):
        Utilized Agile methodology for project management, establishing milestones to breakdown complex data problems into individual tasks.
        Developed models to analyze customer data, structure pricing strategies, and fine-tune marketing plans for a total of over 35 projects.
        Collaborated with key stakeholders to develop an understanding of their specific data needs and to ensure maximum efficiency.
    Data Analyst, XYZ Group (2013-2015):
        Part of the Operations team, processing daily data that amounted up to 10 million records per week.
        Automated data quality reports to speed up data processing, leading to reduced customer response time from hours to minutes.
        Participated in cross-functional team initiatives to improve data accessibility and trustworthiness.

Skill Set:
    Database Technologies: Experienced in SQL for data extraction and manipulation, Tableau for data visualization, MongoDB for data storage, and d3.js for interactive charting.
    Machine Learning Algorithms: Experienced in Linear Regression, Logistic Regression, K-Means, Decision Tree and Random Forest for clustering or classification tasks.
    Analytical Tools: Excel proficient, and have experience in using R for statistical programming and Tableau for large-scale data exploration.
    Team Collaboration: Skilled in gathering data requirements, developing analysis plans, and leading team discussions to identify potential solutions.

Additional Interests:
    Technical Writing: Contribute to Medium and other technical publications on topics related to data analytics in business, such as customer segmentation and predictive analytics.
    Sharing Knowledge: Passionate about sharing knowledge and educating others to apply advanced analytics and data science principles in practice.


Muharrem Matthäi

Creative Designer with Passion for Human-Centered Design | Advocate for Responsible Technological Solutions
Professional Background:
    Design Researcher, IBM (2018-2023):
        Established user-centered research methods based on stakeholder needs and informed design decisions.
        Conducted surveys and interviews to understand user behavior, garnering insights to create effective and ergonomic design systems.
        Collaborated closely with developers to ensure designs rooted in meaningful understanding of users' needs and feeling.
    UX Designer, Adobe (2014-2018):
        Worked with an interdisciplinary team of engineers, researchers, and product managers to understand user needs and craft intuitive user experiences.
        Developed design patterns, identifying areas of improvement from each experience and employed user research feedback to gain valuable insights.
        Facilitated user testing sessions to assess the effectiveness of the product and ensure UX guidelines were met.

Skill Set:
    Design Principles: Experience in user-centered design, user interface design, typography, information architecture, product design and user experience design.
    Design Tools: Proficient with the Adobe Creative Suite, Axure RP, Figma, Sketch, and Invision for the design and prototyping process.
    Design Theory & Methodology: Understand the different theories, methodologies and principles of design, including HCD, UX principles, and design thinking.
    Usability Evaluation: Regularly employed usability testing, interviews, and surveys to assess the effectiveness and user-friendliness of designs.

Additional Interests:
    Community Involvement: Contributed design resources and workshops to foster the creative design community.
    Education & Research: Frequently lecture students and industry professionals on the importance of effective design principles and technology's impact on society.