Transform your Ideas into Robust Web Solutions
I specialize in building custom web applications for both small startups and large enterprises, delivering scalable and efficient solutions that meet diverse business needs. By leveraging my expertise in Ruby on Rails, Hotwire/Turbo and Stimulus, I ensure robust, high-performance applications that drive growth and streamline operations.
Hi I'm Darren
I'm a software engineer with over 18 years of experience building reliable, no-nonsense web applications. I live in Ucluelet, British Columbia, on Vancouver Island, where the rugged coast and wild forests keep me grounded. Outside of coding, I'm usually out on the water—surfing or fishing—or hiking through the coastal mountains and forests around here.
Alongside my work as a software engineer, I hold a commercial vessel SVOP (Small Vessel Operator Proficiency), SDV-BS (Small Domestic Vessel Basic Safety), ROC-M (Restricted Operator Certificate - Maritime), and Marine First Aid and CPR training. Living in Ucluelet on Vancouver Island, I put these to use on my boat, occasionally running ocean guided adventures. Whether it's navigating the coast for fishing trips or showing folks the raw beauty of the Pacific waters, I enjoy sharing the experience with others when I'm not tied up with coding.
I also built our family home with a bit of help from a few friends!
Get in touchWork with the best toolkit
These are the tools I use to build next generation web applications
Github
GitHub is a web-based platform that provides version control using Git, enabling developers to collaborate on projects, share code, track changes, and manage software development. It also offers features such as issue tracking, project management tools, and continuous integration to streamline the development workflow.
Ruby on Rails
Ruby on Rails, often simply called Rails, is a web application framework written in Ruby that follows the Model-View-Controller (MVC) architecture. It emphasizes convention over configuration, making it easier to develop and maintain web applications by streamlining repetitive tasks and promoting best practices.
Tailwind CSS
Tailwind CSS is a utility-first CSS framework that provides a collection of low-level utility classes to build custom designs directly in your markup. It emphasizes a more streamlined and efficient approach to styling by enabling developers to compose complex designs without writing custom CSS.
Heroku
Heroku is a cloud platform as a service (PaaS) that enables developers to build, run, and scale applications in various programming languages. It simplifies deployment by handling infrastructure, servers, and scaling, allowing developers to focus on writing code.
Postgres
PostgreSQL, or Postgres, is a robust open-source relational database management system known for its advanced features, scalability, and SQL compliance. It supports diverse data types, performance optimization tools, and strong data integrity, making it ideal for complex and high-traffic applications.
Artificial Intelligence
AI for coding refers to the application of artificial intelligence techniques to assist and enhance software development processes. These AI tools can automate repetitive tasks, provide code suggestions, identify bugs, and optimize code, thereby improving efficiency and accuracy.
My Services
I provide a comprehensive range of services focused on Ruby on Rails development, including consulting, performance optimization, security enhancements, and scalability solutions. Additionally, I specialize in leveraging Turbo/Hotwire and Stimulus to create highly interactive and efficient web applications.
Web Applications
After 17+ years of writing web applications, I bring a deep understanding of the entire development lifecycle, from initial concept to deployment and maintenance. My expertise spans front-end and back-end technologies, ensuring seamless integration and performance. Leveraging frameworks like Ruby on Rails and tools such as Turbo/Hotwire and Stimulus, I craft robust, scalable, and interactive web applications tailored to meet diverse business needs.
API Backend Architecture
With years of experience in API backend architecture and programming, I possess extensive knowledge in designing and implementing scalable, secure, and efficient backend systems. My expertise includes creating RESTful APIs, ensuring seamless data exchange and integration with various services. Utilizing modern frameworks and best practices, I develop robust backend solutions that drive performance and reliability for diverse applications.
Project Consulting
Consulting and rescuing from poorly written applications, I specialize in assessing, refactoring, and optimizing existing codebases to enhance performance, security, and maintainability. My expertise lies in identifying critical issues and implementing effective solutions, ensuring that applications not only meet current business needs but are also scalable for future growth. Through strategic consulting, I guide projects to successful completion, transforming problematic applications into robust, efficient, and reliable systems.
Ruby on Rails and Ruby Gem Upgrades
Developing in Ruby on Rails since 2007, I specialize in upgrading Rails applications and Ruby gems to ensure compatibility, security, and optimal performance. I meticulously handle dependency management, resolve conflicts, and implement the latest features to keep your applications up-to-date and efficient. Additionally, I focus on automating future gem upgrades, streamlining the process to minimize downtime and maintain the stability and reliability of your applications.
Landing / Coming Soon Pages
Need something quick? I can craft simple, elegant "coming soon" and landing pages to quickly establish an online presence. With a focus on clean design and clear messaging, I create pages that effectively capture visitor interest and convey key information. Whether you're launching a new product, service, or website, my streamlined approach ensures a fast, professional online debut that sets the stage for future growth.
eCommerce Solutions
For eCommerce and online sales applications I can build online stores using Shopify or Wix, I can create robust, user-friendly platforms designed to drive sales and enhance customer experience. My expertise includes integrating secure payment gateways, managing product inventories, writing custom shopify themes and optimizing for both mobile and desktop users. By leveraging the powerful features of Shopify and Wix, I build scalable and reliable eCommerce solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of your business.
Explore some of the recent projects I've worked on.
Inventory & Quoting Software
This application leverages Stimulus and Hotwire/Turbo to deliver a snappy, real-time user experience—think instant page updates and dynamic interactions without full reloads—perfect for tracking stock levels, updating product details, and managing warehouse flows. A standout feature is the integrated client quote builder, allowing users to effortlessly generate professional, customizable quotes by pulling real-time inventory data, complete with pricing and availability, all within a seamless interface. To top it off, the app includes robust signup and login functionality, ensuring secure access with user authentication powered by Rails' built-in tools like Devise or a custom solution, tailored to handle roles for admins, staff, and clients. Deployed with ease thanks to Rails 8's streamlined tooling, this system is a powerhouse for businesses aiming to simplify inventory chaos while impressing clients with polished, instant quotes.
A Ruby gem that uses AI (Claude) to automatically generate test files for your Rails application code.
def self.generate_test(source_code, framework, file_path)
client = Anthropic::Client.new(
access_token: SpecGuardian.configuration.api_key
)
# File type detection
file_type = detect_file_type(file_path)
# Create the prompt
prompt = create_prompt(source_code, framework, file_type)
model = SpecGuardian.configuration.ai_model
max_tokens = SpecGuardian.configuration.max_tokens || 20_000
# Make API call
response = client.messages(
parameters: {
model: model,
max_tokens: max_tokens,
messages: [
{
role: 'user',
content: prompt
}
]
}
)
# Extract and return the test code
response['content'][0]['text']
end
Aumni Inc. is a company that specializes in providing an investment analytics platform for the private capital markets, including venture funds, family offices, university endowments, and corporate venture firms. Utilizing a combination of artificial intelligence and human expertise, Aumni's platform extracts and analyzes critical deal data from dense legal agreements, offering comprehensive insights into the financial and legal positions of investments. This platform has analyzed an extensive range of private capital data, representing investors with over $1 trillion in assets under management, enabling faster and more informed investment decisions.
I was one of the first and undoubtedly key engineers at Aumni, joining the team right from the start. Over 5.5 years, I played a key role in scaling the company from its early days to becoming a pivotal player in investment analytics for private markets. My contributions were instrumental in driving the growth and development of Aumni's platform, leading up to its acquisition by JPMorgan in 2023, which marked a significant milestone in the journey.
I've built, own, and run an exhilarating ocean adventure business on the stunning west coast of Vancouver Island, where the rugged beauty of the Pacific meets the thrill of exploration. My venture includes a unique Airbnb offering, where guests can immerse themselves in the serene ambiance of the oceanfront, providing them with not just a place to stay but an experience to remember. Complementing this, I operate a 22.5-foot custom aluminum boat, meticulously designed for durability and performance, perfect for guiding adventurers through the pristine waters. This boat serves as the vessel for unforgettable ocean adventures, from whale watching to exploring hidden coves and guiding fishing expeditions, all while sharing my deep knowledge of the local marine environment. My business isn't just about providing services; it's about creating a connection between my guests and the natural wonders of Vancouver Island, ensuring they leave with stories of the sea and memories that last a lifetime.
A fun and simple Alfred.app Workflow I wrote to quickly check your stock gains right in the Alfred search bar.
#!/usr/bin/ruby
require 'logger'
logger = Logger.new(STDOUT)
start = ARGV[0]&.to_f
finish = ARGV[1]&.to_f
investment = ARGV[2]&.to_f
increase = finish - start
percentage = (increase / start) * 100
gain = (investment * percentage) / 100
up_down = percentage.negative? ? 'decrease' : 'increase'
gain_loss = gain.negative? ? 'loss' : 'gain'
puts "A $#{sprintf('%.3f', investment)} investment"
puts "at $#{sprintf('%.3f', start)} per share\n"
puts "that #{up_down} to $#{sprintf('%.3f', finish)} per share\n"
puts "is a #{sprintf('%.3f', percentage)}% #{up_down}\n"
puts "giving you a #{gain_loss} of $#{sprintf('%.3f', gain)}"
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