SQL

I completed this SoloLearn certificate as part of the same development roadmap as HTML, although SQL was already something I worked with regularly.

Much of my day-to-day involved supporting Microsoft SQL Server installations for Cabinet Vision, troubleshooting connectivity, permissions, and database issues. As I became more involved with Combit List & Label report development, I found myself writing increasingly complex queries rather than simply supporting the database.

SoloLearn's interactive exercises were a great way to reinforce the fundamentals and become more fluent writing SQL. It helped build on knowledge I already had and gave me greater confidence when developing reports and working with T-SQL.

Introduction to Python

I completed this certificate as part of the same web development roadmap through SoloLearn. While I wouldn't call myself a Python developer, the course provided a solid foundation in the language and reinforced the basics of scripting.

Python has become one of those tools that's incredibly useful for automating repetitive tasks, especially when working in Linux environments. Whether it's processing files, creating small utilities, or simplifying day-to-day workflows, having a fundamental understanding of Python has proven to be a valuable addition to my toolbox.

HTML fundamentals certificate

Back in 1996-1997 I spent countless hours teaching myself HTML (between hours of playing Diablo) using HotDog HTML Editor—a piece of software my dad had picked up from a bargain bin. It was my first real introduction to creating something on a computer from scratch, and I probably learned more by trial and error than by following any guide.

I completed this certificate a while back in part of a web development roadmap with Sololearn. While web development has become less of an interest of mine, it's use is still valuable in many IOT development projects using devices such as the esp32 for back end user interfaces for configurations.

Building a Foundation in AI

 

While I've already spent a fair amount of time experimenting with AI, I recently completed OpenAI Academy's AI Foundations course.

Much of the material reinforced concepts I had already begun exploring on my own, but that was exactly the reason for taking it. Before diving further into areas such as automation, local models, and security research, I wanted to ensure my understanding was built on a solid foundation rather than assumptions.

Artificial Intelligence feels very similar to the early growth of the Internet or the evolution of search engines. At first, they were interesting technologies that few people fully understood. Over time, they became fundamental tools that changed nearly every industry. AI is following a similar path, with organizations rapidly adapting it into products, workflows, and everyday operations.

Whether you're excited about AI or skeptical of it, its influence on technology is difficult to ignore. Understanding the fundamentals—what these models are, where they're effective, where they fall short, and how they should be applied—is becoming just as important as understanding the technologies that came before them.

For me, this course wasn't about earning a certificate. It was about taking the time to strengthen the basics before continuing to explore a field that's evolving faster than almost anything else in technology.

COVID 19 Update

After being let go just before the pandemic and outbreak of COVID 19 - I have officially been off since March 6th. While this is never great news, there are challenges ahead for everyone and I am grateful for the time spent with my kids.

During my time so far we have completely rearranged our dinning room removing any and all "dinning experiences" out of sight. We now have what we consider our "family class room" which includes a tv for remote display, 3D printer, a piano and various other instruments, a futon and enough space for all of us to work together. 

We tried to think of ways we could help our community and came across Inkscape who was looking for people to print the Pursa facesheilds. After producing aproxitely 80 - 90 assemblies, we decided to tackle another issue we were seeing on a more personal level - ear chafe from the straping of masks. We found a design that worked well and contours the head and have managed to produce 920 to date.

The time together as a family thinking of ways we can utilize tools available to us to help others has been a real eye opener and humbling experience for everyone and couldn't have been done without the support of friends and family who contributed to our efforts through donations. With this support we've been able to offer this small token of appreciation to all those who were still able support their communities, free of charge.