I am a Technical Support Specialist with a strong background in IT, software development, and hardware support. My expertise spans web development, embedded systems, and game design, with knowledge in Java, C++, Python, JavaScript, SQL, AWS, and CAD. Beyond software, I have hands-on experience in network management, data recovery, and server administration, integrating Raspberry Pi, Unraid, and Network architecture into my setups. My projects range from full-stack web applications like MI-Infrastructure to embedded systems and Unity-based game development, demonstrating my ability to tackle diverse technical challenges. Passionate about problem-solving and innovation, I continuously refine my skills in programming, database management, making me a versatile and driven technologist.
Beyond theory, I’ve applied these tools directly in my academic, professional, and personal projects. Each one has played a role in shaping my ability to design, build, and maintain real-world solutions:
I’ve used Bootstrap to quickly prototype and style responsive websites such as my personal portfolio and project showcases. Its grid system and prebuilt components let me create clean, mobile-friendly layouts efficiently.
JavaScript powers much of the interactivity in my projects, from form validation and dynamic UI updates to client-side logic. I’ve used it both natively and in frameworks like React to create engaging web applications.
GitHub has been central to version control and collaboration. I’ve managed code for projects like MI-Infrastructure, tracked issues, and coordinated with peers while maintaining clear commit histories and documentation.
I’ve designed and queried relational databases in PostgreSQL, handling structured data for full-stack applications. This includes building schemas, writing SQL queries, and connecting databases to backend services for data-driven solutions.
React has been my go-to for developing modular, component-based user interfaces. I’ve built dynamic pages that update seamlessly without full reloads, including parts of my personal portfolio, MI infrastructure project and experimental apps.
I have hands-on experience leveraging Amazon Web Services (AWS) to design, deploy, and maintain cloud-based solutions. My work has included hosting web applications, managing infrastructure resources, and applying cloud-native services to ensure scalability, security, and cost efficiency.
Deployed full-stack applications such as MI-Infrastructure using AWS services including EC2, S3, and Elastic Beanstalk. Configured environments for smooth CI/CD and reliable uptime.
Used Amazon S3 for storing static assets and media uploads. Integrated PostgreSQL databases into cloud-hosted applications, ensuring secure access and persistent storage.
Applied IAM roles and environment variables to protect sensitive keys and restrict access. Configured reCAPTCHA and HTTPS for secure application workflows.
Practiced deploying scalable infrastructure and managing DNS with Route 53 and custom domains. Used AWS monitoring tools and Agile workflows to continuously refine deployments.
At the University of Michigan–Flint, I participated in a research initiative aimed at adapting
ride-on cars to better serve children with disabilities. The project was an interdisciplinary effort,
bringing together engineering students, occupational therapists, and physical therapists to design
modifications that addressed both functional needs and therapeutic goals.
Through this collaboration, I gained experience working in large, diverse teams with different areas
of expertise and perspectives. Our work emphasized not only creating tailored solutions for individual
children but also developing standardized approaches that could be applied more broadly, ensuring
consistency, accessibility, and long-term impact for future adaptations.
These range from embedded systems to full-stack web apps and Unity games.
Sep 2024 – Present
Self-Hosted Infrastructure
Homelab Infrastructure
Designed and maintained a self-hosted homelab using Unraid, Docker, and OPNsense to gain hands-on experience in IT infrastructure, networking, and DevOps.
Outcomes: Demonstrates practical skills in network engineering, cybersecurity, virtualization, and automation.
Serves as an enterprise-grade lab environment for continuous learning and skill development.
Repo
Full-stack web app for reporting public-infrastructure issues; built with React + Express, map integration, auth, and an admin review flow.
Repo
An embedded Tic Tac Toe game implemented in C with direct hardware control for LEDs, buttons, and game logic.
A Unity action game built for a timed jam, featuring C# gameplay systems, enemy AI, UI, audio, and polished moment-to-moment feel.
Email: brendan@brendantaylor.net | LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendtaylor | GitHub: github.com/brendtaylor
Play