Studies
I studied HND Software Development and BSc Computer Science, graduating in the year 2000. Most of my development studies involved using the Delphi IDE (Turbo Pascal), with some C++ and Java in the mix. As a result of a degree project, I ended up being offered work by a business continuity software company called Criticall Limited.
Software Development and Databases
While working for Criticall, I was key in developing full-stack web applications to manage emergency incidents, such as nuclear accidents, chemical spills, UK-wide power failure management (black start incidents), and terrorist attacks. Our team built a notification engine named Nerv8, using Java, while the incident management was made with PHP, HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Databases for the system included Microsoft SQL Server and, for some solutions, MySQL.
I also developed a lot of Windows native applications using Delphi for customer solutions and front-end interfaces, as well as building server network applications with TCP/IP socket protocols transferring encrypted data across large distances (called Fast Data Stream or FDS).
Hebridean Software
In 2005 I became a freelance developer trading as Hebware. I was still working with my previous employer in a data management and development consultancy role and with local businesses and the community.
Lecturing
In 2007 I found myself supply lecturing at the Lews Castle College in Stornoway, and by 2012 I was lecturing full-time.
My subjects included:
- Software development (Windows, Web and Android)
- Relational database design
- Normalisation
- Database diagrams
- SQL using MySQL
- Creative digital media
- (Raster and vector image editing and creation,
- Audio editing and DAW’s
- Video editing
- Games design and development
I taught games development studies (using Construct 2, then Construct 3) both to school children and entry-level classes as a way to engage and encourage young people to take up software development. - Office Applications
ECDL and SQA subjects with Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and Publisher.
2023 – Present
In June 2023 I stepped back from teaching and am currently focused on personal software projects, exploring current development technologies, and any other work that comes along.