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Colin Frankish
Software Engineer - Full Stack Developer
Professional Background
Colin Frankish is a talented full-stack engineer with over 3.5 years of commercial experience, primarily focused on Ruby on Rails development. His extensive skill set encompasses a range of technologies that are pivotal in today’s fast-paced software development environment. Colin has made significant contributions in building and optimizing web applications, particularly in the healthcare sector, where he played a vital role in the development of a Back Office application for a care provision company. With a passion for creating efficient, user-friendly solutions, he effectively utilized Ruby on Rails, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and various other technologies to streamline healthcare administration processes.
In addition to his role at Vida Care, Colin has honed his skills at So Energy as a Software Engineer, where he continued to develop his full-stack capabilities using Ruby on Rails. His previous positions include notable roles at BCSG, where he began as an intern and grew through the ranks to become a Ruby Developer. This trajectory reflects his dedication to learning and growing within the tech landscape.
Prior to venturing into the tech industry, Colin accumulated 15 years of experience in the travel industry, where he advanced through various managerial positions within major companies, including Travelbag and Corporate Traveller UK. His experience spanned teams and departments, focusing on project delivery, sales, marketing, and recruitment, making him both a competent developer and an exceptional leader who understands the importance of collaborative teamwork and project management.
Education and Achievements
Colin graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in History and Politics from Newcastle University, where he achieved a 2:1 classification. His educational journey began at Scarborough Sixth Form College, laying a strong foundation for his future endeavors. Colin’s background in the humanities has equipped him with critical thinking and analytical skills that he effectively applies in his tech career, allowing him to approach complex problems with a unique perspective.
In addition to his formal education, Colin further advanced his programming knowledge at Makers Academy, a leading coding boot camp that fosters practical learning to prepare individuals for careers in software development. His commitment to continuous learning and improvement showcases his passion for technology, and he actively seeks opportunities to expand his skill set and expertise in Ruby/Rails-focused roles.
Technical Skills
Colin’s technical prowess is notable, with a primary focus on:
- Ruby & Rails (4 and 5): Extensive experience in developing applications tailored for client needs.
- HTML/HAML/SLIM & CSS/SCSS: Proficient in creating responsive and visually appealing front-end designs.
- JavaScript, ES6, jQuery & ReactJS: Strong capabilities in implementing dynamic user interfaces and enhancing user experiences.
- Database Technologies: Hands-on experience with MySQL and PostgreSQL, ensuring robust data management.
- Agile Methodologies: Proficient in leveraging Agile techniques alongside tools such as JIRA and Zenhub for effective project management.
- DevOps & Deployment: Skilled in using Git/GitHub, Heroku, CircleCI, and Capistrano for version control and deployment processes.
Colin also possesses secondary skills in CoffeeScript, Middleman (Rails), Cucumber, as well as some exposure to advanced technologies such as AWS, Docker, and various programming languages including Sinatra, Clojure, and PHP/Laravel. His diverse technical toolbox enables him to adapt easily to different challenges and projects, making him a valuable asset in any development team.
Future Aspirations
Colin is actively seeking mid-senior level Ruby/Rails-focused roles that offer opportunities for continuous learning and skill enhancement. His commitment to professional growth indicates a clear dedication to becoming the best developer he can be while maintaining an openness to roles that may blend his previous management experience with his technical skills in the future. As he progresses in his career, Colin looks forward to tackling complex projects that resonate with his strong belief in the power of technology to improve everyday processes and experiences.
In conclusion, Colin Frankish emerges as a well-rounded full-stack developer whose journey from the travel industry to software engineering showcases his adaptability and commitment. With significant technical expertise and a rich background in management, he stands poised to make impactful contributions in the tech industry, all while pursuing opportunities that align with his desire for personal and professional advancement.
