Hi there! My name is Derek Nguyen, a results-driven software engineer with a Master's in Computer Science and a background in AI/ML. I'm a full-stack developer with over 2 years of experience building end-to-end applications and scalable software solutions.
Experience
2024 — Now
2024 — Now
San Jose, California, United States
As a Software Engineer at ScreenBeam, I spearhead the development of innovative solutions for educational technology. I architected and implemented an advanced automated testing framework leveraging Selenium and network discovery protocols, enabling efficient parallel testing of Chromium extensions across multiple devices. This implementation significantly reduced QA bug detection time by 75%, streamlining our development pipeline. I also designed and developed a comprehensive web filtering system capable of processing over 35,000 URLs, incorporating features like wildcard domain blocking and custom filtering rules. I integrated machine learning models to build a database of web threats for real-time detection.
Responsibilities:
• Design and implement automated testing frameworks for quality assurance
• Develop and maintain web filtering systems for educational institutions
• Integrate machine learning and threat detection systems to enhance web security and content filtering capabilities
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve product capabilities
2024 — 2024
2024 — 2024
San Jose, California, United States
As a Machine Learning Specialist at OutlierAI, I play a pivotal role in advancing the capabilities of our Generative AI technology. My responsibilities encompass evaluating Generative AI code generation and ensuring consistency in model outputs. Additionally, I am deeply involved in the training of GenAI models through human feedback, leveraging insights to refine and optimize model performance. Beyond this, I engage in prompt engineering to formulate effective stimuli for model training and evaluation. Furthermore, I meticulously review code responses generated by the model and evaluate them against human feedback, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of our AI-driven solutions. Lastly, I actively review and assess the feedback provided by other team members to validate code evaluations and maintain high-quality standards.
Responsibilities:
• Evaluate Generative AI code generation for accuracy and consistency
• Train GenAI models by incorporating and analyzing human feedback
• Engage in prompt engineering to create effective stimuli for model training and evaluation
• Review code responses generated by the model and compare them with human feedback to validate accuracy and reliability
• Assess feedback provided by other team members to ensure the accuracy and quality of code evaluations
2023 — 2024
2023 — 2024
San Jose, California, United States
As a Software Engineer Researcher at Karuna Labs, I am researching the integration of reinforcement learning techniques into our virtual reality (VR) training modules. My primary responsibilities include conducting in-depth research within the C# and Unity codebase to identify opportunities for implementing reinforcement learning algorithms. Leveraging my expertise in these areas, I provide strategic recommendations for enhancing our training modules to optimize user engagement and therapeutic outcomes.
Responsibilities:
• Initiated the facilitation of machine learning integration into existing VR training modules by conducting comprehensive research within the C# and Unity codebase, identifying key opportunities for model training and optimization.
• Currently in the process of implementing reinforcement learning techniques into VR training modules, aiming to enhance the adaptability and effectiveness of therapy programs for pain management and rehabilitation.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop and deploy initial machine learning models for personalized user feedback and adaptive training regimens, laying the foundation for improved user engagement and treatment outcomes.
• Conducted preliminary performance evaluations and analysis of implemented machine learning algorithms, providing valuable insights for further refinement and optimization of VR therapy solutions.
• Actively engaged in ongoing research and development efforts to stay abreast of the latest advancements in machine learning and virtual reality technologies, ensuring the continued innovation and enhancement of our products and services.
2022 — 2022
2022 — 2022
San Jose, California, United States
As a Data Analyst at SIMONTEX, I assumed a pivotal role in the organization, where I utilized advanced analytical techniques, including machine learning and predictive modeling, to extract actionable insights from complex datasets. My responsibilities encompassed leveraging predictive analytics to forecast future networking market trends, executing comprehensive data analysis to facilitate strategic decision-making, and conducting in-depth research on established and prospective clients to identify high-impact marketing channels. Through meticulous management and analysis of large datasets, I contributed to driving revenue growth and optimizing operational efficiency.
Achievements:
• Applied machine learning algorithms and predictive analytics techniques to develop models forecasting future networking market trends, resulting in a 4% increase in revenue potential.
• Conducted in-depth data analysis utilizing advanced statistical methods and data visualization tools to manage and derive insights from large datasets, enabling strategic decision-making processes.
• Implemented predictive modeling techniques, including regression analysis and time series forecasting, to identify key factors driving revenue growth and optimize resource allocation.
• Leveraged data mining methodologies to extract actionable insights from complex datasets, leading to the identification of high-impact marketing channels and strategies for targeting established and prospective clients.
• Developed and deployed machine learning models for customer segmentation and targeted marketing campaigns, resulting in improved customer engagement and conversion rates.
2021 — 2021
2021 — 2021
Irvine, California, United States
As a Software Engineer at Vusar, I led the development of new iOS features that increased user downloads by 5% and improved accessibility of AR technologies. Employing agile methodologies, I conducted thorough code reviews, testing, and debugging to enhance application performance. Collaborating with cross-functional teams, I implemented the Firebase platform for efficient data management and UI design, while ensuring seamless integration through continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines. Guiding applications through the software lifecycle, I ensured a superior user experience. Additionally, I engineered advanced AR features and optimized performance, spearheading initiatives to streamline development processes.
Achievements:
• Engineered advanced AR features using frameworks such as ARKit and SceneKit, pushing the boundaries of immersive experiences and positioning Vusar as a leader in AR innovation.
• Optimized application performance and resource utilization through the implementation of efficient algorithms and data structures, resulting in a 20% reduction in app loading times and improved overall responsiveness.
• Collaborated with UX/UI designers to prototype and iterate on design concepts, incorporating user feedback and usability studies to refine and enhance the user interface and interaction design of mobile applications.
• Implemented scalable backend systems and APIs to support mobile application functionality, ensuring high availability, scalability, and security of user data and application resources.
• Spearheaded initiatives to streamline development processes and enhance team productivity, including the adoption of agile methodologies, automated testing frameworks, and continuous integration/delivery pipelines.
Education
University of Southern California
Master of Science - MS
UC Irvine