The Early Code Days

My coding journey began in 1982 with a Commodore 64, typing BASIC programs while my brother jumped off beds playing Superman. That pressure-filled environment became the foundation of my development philosophy: code must work under any conditions.

From BASIC to Linux (1982-1995)

Throughout the 1980s, I tinkered with computers whenever possible, always seeking ways to break apart operating systems and understand their inner workings. By 1995, I was running Linux and hosting Quake II servers at the local ISP, chasing those perfect low-ping frags. When my dad sent me my first hyperlink through AOL instant messages, it opened a new world: HTML and the early web.

The Web Revolution (1995-2001)

I started building HTML websites in 1995, evolving quickly from Perl/CGI scripting to PHP by late 1999. I was creating database-driven websites while juggling between Microsoft ASP (for military projects) and PHP on Linux (for personal passion projects). Linux became my obsession. I built PHP servers at home, developed client websites during leave, all while maintaining my duties as a combat airman, husband, and father.

Dual Platform Mastery

While serving, I administered Windows systems by day, building ASP websites for squadron operations, creating forms and survey systems, and maintaining interactive feedback platforms for commanders. By night, I was deep in Linux, building custom PHP applications and hosting infrastructure from my spare bedroom. This dual-platform experience gave me unique insights that most developers never gained.

From that first BASIC program on a Commodore 64 to hosting enterprise clients on custom infrastructure, this journey taught me that elegant code isn't just about clever algorithms. It's about building systems that scale, adapt, and survive in production under any conditions.