Russell Headshot

Russell Fair

770.401.9039

KJ7LNP

Software engineer, instructor, maker

Career Objective

Be amazing, be myself, make an impact.

Professional Experience

Principal Engineer2019 - current

RFAIR, INC — Boise, ID (remote)
  • Lead development of web applications on behalf of enterprise clients.
  • Facilitate Agile project management and ceremonies.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders on a variety of complex projects.

Platform Architect2017 - 2019

XWP — Victoria, Australia (remote)
  • Oversee the development of custom web applications on behalf of enterprise clients.
  • Mentor a small team of developers.
  • Speak on behalf of XWP at conferences.

Director of Engineering2016 - 2017

Toptal, LLC — San Francisco, CA (remote)
  • Help Toptal clients find top freelance software developers.
  • Interview and assess prospective new developers.
  • Speak on behalf of Toptal at conferences.

Director of Technology 2015 - 2016

The Friends School of Atlanta — Decatur GA
  • Manage school network, servers, website and critical infrastructure.
  • Create the "Innovation Lab" a S.T.E.A.M. makerspace.
  • Teach CAD, programming, computer science topics to K-8 students.

Special Projects Manager 2014 - 2015

University System of Missouri — Columbia MO (remote)
  • Manage development for School of Journalism websites.
  • Lead development of custom WordPress plugins and themes.
  • Oversee complex data and server migrations.

Lead Developer 2012 - 2014

Cheri Media Group, Inc. — Los Angeles CA (remote)
  • Work with designers and developers to ensure quality and timely project completion.
  • Develop custom web applications for music media websites.
  • Design, deploy and manage server infrastructure.

Web Developer & Consultant 2007-2012

Q21.CO, LLC — Atlanta GA
  • Manage and contribute to web development projects.
  • Draft proposals, estimates, presentations and technical documents.
  • Plan and execute social media, email marketing and SEO campaigns.

Volunteer Experience

Organizer 2018-2020

WordCamp Boise, Boise, ID
  • Organize Boise's first annual WordCamp conference.
  • Manage team communication systems.
  • Recruit and train volunteers.

Communications Manager 2014 - 2016

Decatur Makers, Decatur GA
  • Create website for community makerspace.
  • Organize and promote community events.
  • Organize successful Kickstarter and other fund raising campaigns.

Technology Instructor 2012 - 2016

Smoke Rise Prep, Tucker GA
  • Teach introduction to computer science classes.
  • Lead HTML, FIRST Robotics, and outdoor conservation clubs.
  • Manage Google Apps for Education account.

Organizer 2011 - 2015

WordCamp Atlanta, Atlanta GA
  • Manage annual event with more than 500 attendees.
  • Oversee speaker selection and programming decisions.
  • Solicit advertisers to offset event costs.

Education

Fine Arts Major2002 - 2003

Webster University, St. Louis MO
  • Studies scenic design, stage management and technical direction.
  • Managed theatrical production crew of 6 student.
  • Internship as Information Technology assistant.

Relevant Skills and Proficiencies

Development Skills and Qualifications

  • Experience working with and in Agile teams.
  • Expert understanding of programming languages including PHP, Javascript, HTML and CSS.
  • Basic understanding of programming languages including Python, JAVA, Ruby and Coffeescript.
  • Accustomed to CSS preprocessors such as LESS and SASS.
  • Proficient with version control tools including GIT and SVN.
  • Familiar with modern server tools such as Linux, Unix, OpenStack, Varnish and Memcached.
  • Extensive experience using WordPress and other open source content management systems.

Professional Strengths and Abilities

  • Certified Facilitator in the LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® Method.
  • Professional speaking engagements at industry events and conferences nationwide.
  • Ability to perform in high-energy, constantly changing environments.
  • Detail oriented and capable of executing multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Continually evaluating my own performance and have a strong desire to succeed.

Maker Skills

  • Amature radio (HAM) Technician license.
  • Woodworking and basic carpentry.
  • Welding and metalworking.
  • Robotics and electronics prototyping.

Contributions

Public Speaking

  • Competent Communicator Toastmaster.
  • West Coast Art and Frame National Conference.
  • Education Market Association EDexpo.
  • Superior Technology for Teachers Conference.
  • Hackfort.
  • Environmental Educators Association of Georgia Annual Conference.
  • Numerous WordCamp presentations including: Asheville, Atlanta, Nashville, Savannah and St. Louis.

Contributions, Recommendations and Reviews