Nick Dirschel

Full stack developer with expertise in Ruby on Rails, JavaScript, and modern web technologies. Lead Developer at Parsons Corporation.

Summary

Full-stack developer specializing in Ruby on Rails, JavaScript/TypeScript, and React/Next.js. Experienced in API development, cloud infrastructure, and CI/CD automation, with a focus on building secure, scalable web applications that deliver measurable impact.

Experience

Lead Software Engineer | Parsons Corporation

December 2024 - Present

  • Develop a Rails 8 learning management system integrating Next.js course applications with automated TypeScript client generation, milestone-based progress tracking, and role-based dashboards for students and administrators
  • Engineer a virtual machine management platform with integrations across AWS, Google Cloud, DigitalOcean, and Vultr
  • Architect a secure communications platform with end-to-end automated provisioning of database, messaging server, web infrastructure, SSL/TLS, and firewall hardening using Node.js and React
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and deliver user-centric, intuitive web applications
  • Design and integrate scalable, modular, full-stack solutions aligned with business and user needs
  • Administer and optimize Linux-based systems for reliable hosting, deployment, and monitoring
  • Ensure secure connectivity and data protection through technologies like WireGuard VPN and other privacy-focused protocols

Technologies: Ruby on Rails, Next.js, Node.js, React, TypeScript, AWS, Google Cloud, DigitalOcean, Vultr, WireGuard VPN, Linux

Software Engineer | UMass Transit Services

November 2021 - Present (Part-time since 2024)

  • Maintain and modernize a Rails-based transit operations platform powering employee management, scheduling, vehicle maintenance, and training workflows
  • Maintain and modernize a Rails-based parking management system integrating T2 Flex/Iris APIs with SOAP web services, automated entity synchronization across multiple data sources, and role-based access control for parking enforcement and permit administration
  • Overhaul test suite for app to increase reliability and reduce bug introduction
  • Collaborate directly with operations staff and end users to troubleshoot, triage in-app feedback, and iterate product improvements

Technologies: Ruby on Rails, T2 Flex/Iris APIs, SOAP web services, Database Management, System Administration

Full Stack Developer | Newspaper Industry

2024

  • Developed and maintained a fully featured CMS using PHP
  • Built multi-platform publishing system with Ruby on Rails and Vue.js
  • Collaborated on content management and distribution systems

Technologies: Ruby on Rails, PHP, Vue.js, CMS Development

Technical Skills

Programming Languages

  • Ruby - Advanced (Rails framework)
  • JavaScript (ES6+) - Advanced (Node.js, React, Vue.js)
  • TypeScript - Advanced (Angular, React applications)
  • Go - Intermediate (Backend services)
  • SQL - Advanced (PostgreSQL, MySQL, database design)
  • HTML5/CSS3/SASS - Advanced (Responsive design)
  • Python - Intermediate (Web applications, automation)
  • C++ - Intermediate (Systems programming)
  • Java - Intermediate (Object-oriented development)

Frameworks & Technologies

  • Ruby on Rails
  • React.js
  • Next.js
  • Angular
  • Vue.js
  • Node.js
  • Bootstrap
  • jQuery
  • Linux Server Administration

Tools & Platforms

  • Git/GitHub
  • Docker
  • PostgreSQL
  • MySQL
  • Redis
  • Linux/Unix systems
  • macOS
  • Bash scripting
  • Database design and optimization
  • Web application security
  • RESTful API development

Cloud & DevOps

  • AWS (EC2, S3)
  • Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
  • DigitalOcean
  • Vultr
  • CI/CD
  • WireGuard VPN
  • SSL/TLS configuration
  • Firewall hardening

Education

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering University of Massachusetts Amherst | September 2016 - May 2020

  • Focus on embedded systems engineering
  • Computer software design
  • Strong foundation in multiple programming languages
  • Hardware and software integration

Projects

TimeDash - Time Tracking Application

Source Code | Details

Web app with Rails API and Angular frontend for managing weekly work hours.

  • Features: Multi-position shift tracking, hourly rate management, company organization, detailed reporting
  • Technologies: Ruby on Rails, Angular, TypeScript, OpenAPI, rswag, Bootstrap, SQLite
  • Innovation: Contract-first development with automated TypeScript client generation from OpenAPI specs

Maintracker - Vehicle Maintenance Tracker

Live Site | Details

Full-stack Rails app for vehicle maintenance tracking, including fuel and service history logging.

  • Features: Fuel logging, maintenance records, expense tracking, MPG calculations
  • Technologies: Ruby on Rails, Bootstrap, SQL, Linux deployment
  • Impact: Helps users track vehicle expenses and maintenance history

3D Printing Design Portfolio

View Projects

Custom 3D designs solving everyday problems, showcasing problem-solving and design thinking.

  • Created functional household items using CAD software
  • Published designs on Thingiverse with positive community feedback
  • Demonstrates practical application of engineering principles

Awards

DRIVE Award - Pending

  • Recognition for exceptional performance and contribution to team goals

Professional Philosophy

I believe in writing clean, maintainable code that solves real problems. My experience spans from embedded systems to full-stack web development, giving me a unique perspective on both hardware and software challenges. I’m passionate about building systems that are not only functional but also elegant and user-friendly.

What Interests Me

I’m drawn to opportunities that combine technical challenge with meaningful impact:

  • Modern Technologies - Working with current frameworks and best practices
  • Code Quality - Environments where clean, maintainable code is valued
  • Team Collaboration - Organizations that prioritize knowledge sharing and growth
  • Work-Life Balance - Companies that support sustainable career development

Contact

For inquiries related to this portfolio or professional opportunities:

References available upon request