Cinque Terre

Alex Grant

Computer Programmer

   

About Me

At this point in time

Greetings! I've successfully completed my four-year journey at Tallaght University, earning an Honors Bachelor Degree in Computer Science. Throughout this transformative academic experience, I immersed myself in a rich curriculum that covered an extensive array of software development tools and languages. My proficiency extends across diverse programming languages, including Java, CSS, HTML, C++, C, and Python. I've honed my skills using tools such as NetBeans and VS Code

Delving into web development with frameworks and leveraging Notepad++ for coding efficiency. Additionally, I've explored essential aspects of computing, from database management using SQL Developer to understanding computer architecture through Logisim. Operating system fundamentals, including MS DOS and PowerShell scripting, have been integral to my educational journey. I've also delved into object-oriented system analysis with Rational Rhapsody.

The challenges of Java programming in the first semester not only broadened my skill set but also fueled my passion for programming. Overcoming these challenges was immensely satisfying, solidifying my commitment to this dynamic field. My journey at Tallaght University has been marked by a profound growth in my love for coding and problem-solving. As a hardworking individual, I thrive both independently and within a collaborative group setting. Team-leading skills acquired through numerous assignments showcase my ability to navigate challenges effectively. I firmly believe that challenges are opportunities for learning and growth, and this mindset has been a driving force in my academic endeavors. Since 2010, my career path has been centered around my passion for computing.

Starting at the Digital Hub for two years and progressing to Crumlin College for another two, I've built a foundation that has led me to IT Tallaght. Now, on the verge of obtaining my degree, I am excited to leverage my skills and knowledge to fulfill my goal in the dynamic field of computer science. While my initial aspiration was to be involved in sports, my journey in science and computing has reshaped my career path. Through numerous challenges, I've persevered, continuously seeking solutions and expanding my knowledge. My skills have largely been honed through education, and I am now prepared to contribute meaningfully to the world of technology.

Digital Hub

The first step was a FAS course to get young adults back into education at this time I was unenployeed and I have not been in education in a number of years leading up to this point this course was the building blocks to my current success, this was another two year course with nine subjects in total over the two years the modules included. Animation, Editing for TV and Film, Communications, Music Technology, Radio Program Production, computer Literacy, Video Expression, and Personal Effectiveness.

Crumlin College

Before I attended ITT, I studied Information Technology in Crumlin College completing modules such as, System Maintenance, Relational Database, Object orientated Programming, Windows Programming, Data Communications, Networks, Web Authoring, Database Methods, Computer Architecture and systems, and Communications. This was a big challenge for me, as I have never studied any high-level computer programming before. It was not long after the first year in Crumlin College that I realized that I could possibly move forward as a computer programmer and have a career in this feild. This was the second stage on my path to Institute of Technology Tallaght.

I enjoyed this course and the two main subjects I liked was Radio Program Production and Animation. In the course, we had to be able to create an hour-long set for live radio for the Digital Hub 94.3 FM radio station. My job was the sports section I would give the listeners a breakdown of the games that have been played, live scores and up and coming matches. For my animation project, I created an animation rugby team lip syncing Irelands Call anthem. This course is really, what got me on the path to where I am now.

Thank you for taking the time to explore my journey and aspirations. I am eager to embrace new opportunities and make a positive impact in the feild of computer science.

--Innopharma Education

2023 - 2024

Certificate in Information Technology for Process Digitisation

Technology Management

  • IT Tallaght

Tallaght University Dublin

2015 - 2019

Bachelor of Science (Honours)

BS in Computing with Information

Technology Management

  • IT Tallaght

Crumlin College of Further Education

2012 - 2015

Networks and Software Systems

VTAC Level 5, 6

  • Crumlin College

Digital Hub

2009 - 2011

Digital Media & Production

VTAC Level 3, 5

  • Digital Hub

Scoil Eoin

1999 - 2005

Leaving Cert (LCA)

Junior Cert

  • Scoil Eoin

Tallaght University Dublin Results

Summary

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Computing with Software Development
Stage Passed GPA Credits Credits Required
Stage 1 Y 3.17 60 60
Stage 2 Y 3.23 60 60
Stage 3 Y 2.38 60 60
Stage 4 Y 2.46 60 60
240 240

In the tables below there are (W & S) letters beside each subject for winter and summer examination

4th Year

Subject Grade
W Enterprise Application Dev 1 C
W Information Management B-
W Algorithms & Computation D
W Security for the Cloud and IoT B-
S Architecture on Public Cloud B-
S Enterprise Performance Arch C+
S Enterprise App Development 2 C
S Computational Theory B-
4th Year Project C+

3rd Year

Subject Grade
W Web Application Development C+
W Operating Systems B
W Cloud servs and distrib comp B
W Advanced Databases B-
Data Structures and Algorithms D
Data Analysis D
Work Experience COMPLETED

2nd Year

Subject Grade
W Software Development 3 B
W Software Qual Ass And Testing B
W Networking 1 B+
W Database Design and Programmin B-
W Discrete Mathematics 2 B
W Web and Mobile Design and Devel. B
S Software Development 4 B+
S Project A
S Networking 2 B+
S Management Science B+
S Object Oriented Analy and Desi C+
S Information Security B+

1st Year

Subject Grade
W Software Development 1 C+
W Computer Architecture B
W Fundament of Interface And Web B
W Business AndInformation Sys A
W Discrete Mathematics 1 B
W Learning to Learn at 3rd Lvl B
S Software Development 2 B
S Object Oriented System Analy A
S Social Media Communications B
S Statistics C+
S Database Fundamentals B+
S Operating Syst Fundamentals B+

Work Experience

Bank of America Merrill Lynch

In the second semester of my third year, we were mandated to seek an internship, and I successfully secured a placement at Bank of America Merrill Lynch. Within the organization, I was assigned to the operations team situated on the 5th floor, specifically designated as the Brexit team. Our primary objective was to prepare for a hard Brexit, meaning the bank aimed to compile comprehensive information on companies from Great Britain by the time Brexit was finalized.

During my tenure at the bank, I held dual responsibilities, one of which involved working on an in-house project. This project centered around developing a dashboard implemented in ITRS, for mentoring systems and utilizing a Unix command line and basic scripting code base. The project involved collaboration with five other interns, and our team manager, an employee of the bank, oversaw the distribution of workload to ensure progress.

On a day-to-day basis, my role entailed constructing queries using SQL and SPARQL, all of which were focused on Brexit-related data. Following the construction of these queries, I proceeded to create a Scala class and integrated the queries into it. Given the extensive size of the database, the Scala class was specifically designed to handle big data efficiently. Before deploying the class to production (PROD), it underwent thorough checks at two different stages to ensure accuracy and functionality.

Technologies used

ITRS, SQL, SPARQL

Scala, Jenkins, Quartz

Intellij, Jira, Babun

Amazon Web Services

In my role as a Cloud Support Engineer at Amazon, I engaged with enterprise clients, guiding them through the utilization of AWS services and facilitating the seamless transition of their business and infrastructure into the cloud. As clients navigated the intricacies of AWS services, I played a pivotal role in addressing challenges that arose, leveraging my expertise to educate them on optimal service utilization. Beyond troubleshooting issues, my responsibilities extended to providing comprehensive solutions for any challenges encountered during their cloud journey.

A key aspect of my role was not only resolving immediate issues but also fostering a deeper understanding of AWS services, empowering clients to navigate independently. This required a combination of problem-solving prowess, critical thinking abilities, and a robust technical know-how of the specific domains under my purview. I consistently demonstrated a proactive approach to problem resolution, ensuring clients received the highest level of support and guidance throughout their cloud experience.

Moreover, my tenure as a Cloud Support Engineer involved staying abreast of evolving technologies and industry best practices, contributing to a dynamic and innovative work environment. This commitment to continuous learning further enhanced my capacity to deliver effective solutions and elevate the overall customer experience.

4th Year Project

Junior Manager

My project involves creating a hybrid mobile application compatible with both Android and iOS. Specifically, I developed a Junior Manager App designed to assist team managers in forming and selecting soccer squads for youth teams. In youth football management, the focus isn't on high-intensity training but rather on imparting fundamental skills such as passing, shooting, and attacking. Having six years of experience in coaching junior football, I recognized the challenges of using paper-based methods in Ireland's unpredictable weather conditions, inspiring the creation of this app.

The app simplifies the process for managers by allowing them to sign up and create player squads. When a manager adds a player, the app automatically generates an account using the provided email, complete with a pre-set password. Managers can then easily search, edit, and view all players' details. Additionally, I implemented a five-star rating system covering six categories: passing, shooting, defending, attacking, goalkeeping skills, and general skills. This system provides an overall average rating for each player's training session.

Another notable feature of the app is a communication feed, akin to a Facebook post, facilitating interaction between players and managers. This feature enables posting, commenting, and liking within the application. I introduced this functionality to allow managers to share messages about upcoming training sessions and matches. Players can respond, indicating their availability. This addresses the challenge of uncertain squad availability, a problem I encountered when discovering on the day whether I had a full team for training or matches—sometimes too late.

Project walkthrough

Skills

HTML5
80%
CSS3
70%
C#
50%
C++
60%
Java
85%
SQL
80%
Networks
77%
Python
50%

Intrests