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Brian Hiatt
CTO at COVIDCheck Colorado
Professional Background
Brian Hiatt is a seasoned full stack developer with a deep-seated passion for leveraging technology to create social impact. His current role as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at COVIDCheck Colorado exemplifies his commitment to public health and safety. In this capacity, he is instrumental in orchestrating efforts to facilitate fast, accurate, and affordable COVID-19 testing, thus playing a pivotal role in guiding Colorado back to work and school safely amid the pandemic. Brian has spent over 15 years honing his skills in web and application development, collaborating with hundreds of organizations to bring their digital ideas to life. His expertise spans a rich spectrum of technologies including Javascript, React, Python, PHP, HTML, CSS, LAMP/LEMP, and AWS.
Before engaging with COVIDCheck Colorado, Brian demonstrated exceptional skill as a Senior Software Engineer and Software Architect at Shift Research Lab. His technical acumen and strategic thinking were crucial in creating software solutions designed to enhance research capabilities in social sciences. His innovative approach led to the development of robust applications that improved data collection and analysis processes.
Brian is not only a talented developer but also a founder who has taken the mantle of leadership at various organizations. He co-founded Open.Media as CTO, where he pioneered efforts to harness media technology for social change and civic engagement. His entrepreneurial spirit continued with Civic Pixel Ltd., where he served as the Lead Developer, creating impactful software that addressed community needs.
Education and Achievements
Brian's educational journey began at the University of Colorado Boulder, where he pursued a Bachelor's Degree in International Relations and Affairs. This academic background instilled in him a global perspective and a profound understanding of the social ramifications of technology. The fusion of his studies and his technical expertise positions him as a unique figure in the tech landscape, where he effectively bridges the gap between technology and societal needs.
He has also made noteworthy contributions to the community through various roles and speaking engagements. Notably, he served as the Local Track Chair for the Nonprofit/NGO Track at DrupalCon Denver 2012, showcasing his dedication to sharing knowledge and fostering growth within the tech community. Furthermore, as Division Manager and Senior Developer at Open Media Foundation, Brian played a key role in developing strategic initiatives that empowered local media and nonprofit organizations to thrive in the digital age.
Achievements
Brian's career is punctuated by a series of accomplishments that attest to his expertise and ability to make a lasting impact:
- COVIDCheck Colorado: Leading efforts in the development of a vital COVID-19 testing solution for the state of Colorado, ensuring safe access to communities.
- Shift Research Lab: Serving as a Senior Software Engineer and Software Architect, Brian's contributions significantly enhanced research methodologies.
- Open.Media: As a co-founder and CTO, he was integral in using technology for social justice and community engagement.
- Civic Pixel Ltd.: Founded to provide civic technology solutions that address community challenges with innovative software.
- Local Track Chair, DrupalCon Denver: Contributed to the nonprofit sector by steering educational workshops and panels, enhancing the ecosystem for tech enthusiasts and nonprofit organizations.
- Open Media Foundation: His leadership as Division Manager paved the way for empowering local media through technological advancements.
Brian Hiatt continues to be a driving force in technology, demonstrating how strategic development can align with social impact. With his extensive background, innovative mindset, and dedication to community enhancement, Brian is an influential figure in the realms of software development and public health.
