My Journey into Tech: From Childhood Curiosity to Software Engineering
Hey there! I'm Xavier, and I've always been fascinated by how things work. As a kid, I was glued to the TV whenever characters in cartoons like The Flintstones would invent something new. There was something magical about seeing ideas transform into reality, even in animated form. I wasn't just a passive observer, though – I'd take apart electronic devices around the house (much to my parents' dismay!), examine their inner workings, and then reassemble them. This curiosity about the "how" behind everything has been the driving force throughout my entire life.
From Electronics Workshop to Biology
In high school, I jumped at the opportunity to join a three-year electronics workshop. Learning about circuits, components, and how to build small electronic projects was like discovering a new language – a language that explained how the world around me functioned. When it came time for university, I chose to study natural sciences with a focus on biology. Why biology? Because I wanted to understand how everything worked, not just machines but living systems too.
Life took an interesting turn when I realized biology jobs were scarce. Being practical, I completed a one-year program in medical technology, which built upon my biology background while offering better employment prospects. For the next eight years, I worked as a Medical Technologist, developing crucial skills in patient communication, teamwork, and problem-solving under pressure – especially during critical times like Hurricane Maria and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Maker's Spirit Never Sleeps
Throughout those years in healthcare, my passion for creating and tinkering never diminished. It was my constant companion, my creative outlet after long shifts in the lab. I invested in a 3D printer and dove into the world of Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and various sensors and modules. My first real experience with programming came around 2017 when I started coding in C++ for Arduino projects. There's something incredibly satisfying about writing code that brings physical objects to life!
Google, Stack Overflow, and various forums became my classroom. I learned to search effectively, adapt solutions to my needs, and troubleshoot when things inevitably went wrong – skills that would prove invaluable later in my software engineering journey.
From Pandemic Pivot to Digital Creation
When the pandemic hit in 2020, I found myself with time to explore new avenues. I launched two different convenience stores on Shopify, built a WordPress website with a blog for a smart film business called Etereovista.com, and discovered I had a knack for creating digital experiences.
From 2022 onwards, I began creating websites for clients. Though I started with low-code platforms, these projects taught me the fundamentals of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, domains, DNS configuration, marketing automation, and SEO. I built sites for all kinds of businesses – a coffee brand (barismoconcafepapamin.com) with an accompanying course academy, a chiropractic clinic (vivalasaludclinic.com), a plumber (plomeriesm.com), and many others.
The Formal Leap into Software Engineering
In 2024, I made the decision to formally pursue my dream of becoming a software engineer. During this journey, I realized cybersecurity was a natural extension of my interests – after all, it's about understanding how systems work and how they can be protected.
Looking back, I can see that my path wasn't linear, but every experience contributed something valuable. From the care and precision needed in medical technology to the creative problem-solving of my maker projects, from client communication in website development to the technical skills gained through self-teaching – it all prepared me for where I am today.
Why I Love What I Do
What drives me is the endless opportunity to create. Software engineering is modern-day invention – it's bringing ideas to life through code. I love the constant learning this field demands; there's always a new technology, language, or framework to explore.
My background has given me a unique approach to problem-solving. In medical technology, errors aren't an option – you develop a methodical, detail-oriented mindset. When troubleshooting complex systems, I draw on this experience, breaking down problems systematically until I find the root cause.
I also bring strong collaborative skills from my healthcare days. Clear communication was essential when dealing with patients and medical staff during critical situations. This translates perfectly to software development teams, where conveying complex ideas clearly and working together toward solutions is crucial.
Looking Forward
As I continue growing as a software engineer with a focus on cybersecurity, I'm excited about creating solutions that make a difference. I believe my diverse background allows me to see problems from multiple angles and design solutions that are technically sound while remaining human-centered.
I'm particularly interested in the intersection of hardware and software – IoT systems, secure embedded devices, and applications that bridge the digital and physical worlds. My journey from taking apart electronics as a kid to building secure software systems feels like a natural evolution.
If you're looking for a software engineer who brings creativity, adaptability, strong problem-solving skills, and excellent team communication – along with a unique perspective shaped by diverse experiences – I'd love to connect!