Hey, I'm Dillian! 👋
I'm a technology enthusiast, lifelong tinkerer, and former operations manager with a knack for figuring out how things work. Whether I'm writing code, building something from scratch, or taking apart a perfectly functioning piece of technology just to see what's inside, I'm usually working on something.
I spent nearly a decade at Menards working in operations management, logistics, and construction sales, where I learned a lot about leading teams, solving problems, and keeping things running when the day inevitably doesn't go according to plan.
Somewhere along the way, my interest in technology turned into something much bigger. I graduated from The Software Guild's full-stack Java bootcamp in 2022, and I'm currently pursuing my bachelor's degree in Computer Science at Western Governors University with anticipated graduation in September 2027.
While I enjoy programming, my interests go well beyond what's happening on a computer screen. I'm fascinated by network infrastructure/servers, small electronics, automation, smart-home technology, and the systems that keep everything connected and running. There's something incredibly satisfying about understanding how all the pieces fit together.
These days, I'm looking to bring my operations management experience and technical education together in a career where I can continue learning, solve interesting problems, and get my hands on some cool technology.
And when I'm not doing any of that? There's a good chance I'm spending time with my family, working on another project around the house, or convincing myself I definitely need one more gadget.
Thanks for stopping by!
I've spent much of my career leading teams, coordinating operations, and solving the kinds of problems that don't always come with an instruction manual.
Along the way, I developed a passion for technology, completed an intensive software development bootcamp, and began pursuing my bachelor's degree in Computer Science. I'm especially interested in the intersection of technology, infrastructure, customer experience, and hands-on leadership operations.
Western Governors University (WGU)
Building a foundation in computer science, software engineering, networking, security, and technical problem-solving.
The Software Guild
Completed an intensive development program focused on Java, Spring, relational databases, web applications, and collaborative software development.
Foundational knowledge of Linux operating systems, command-line concepts, system administration, and open-source technologies.
Progressive Insurance | Remote
Menards | Chillicothe, Ohio
Menards | Chillicothe, Ohio
Menards | Chillicothe, Ohio
A collection of things I've built while learning, experimenting, and occasionally wondering why something that worked five minutes ago suddenly doesn't.
A Java and Spring Boot web application that lets users report, browse, and manage superhero sightings. Features a Thymeleaf interface, MySQL database, and full CRUD functionality.
An interactive vending machine simulator that retrieves inventory through a REST API. Users can insert money, purchase products, and receive calculated change, with error handling for unsuccessful transactions.
A Spring Boot API for a Bulls and Cows-style code-breaking game. Generates hidden four-digit codes, evaluates guesses, and tracks game progress, round history, and match feedback.
Smaller applications, APIs, and programming exercises that helped me build my development skills.
A contact management application with a web interface for creating, viewing, updating, and deleting contacts through an API.
A weather application that retrieves current conditions and five-day forecasts for cities around the world using the OpenWeatherMap API.
A single-page application for managing a DVD collection. Supports adding, editing, searching, and deleting records through a REST API.
A Spring Boot API that retrieves to-do records from a MySQL database and returns JSON responses. Endpoints were tested using Postman.
A relational database designed to manage hotel guest reservations, including SQL scripts for creating database structures and managing data.
A business application for managing flooring customers and orders, with file-based data storage and configurable product and tax information.
A console-based vending machine simulator built using MVC architecture, service layers, data access objects, and JUnit testing.
A Java console application for maintaining a DVD collection using MVC architecture, CRUD operations, service layers, and JUnit tests.
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