Photo of Richard Paul

Hi, I’m Richard — a software engineer and educator with a Master’s in Computer Science from UMass Amherst and hands-on experience across DevOps, full-stack web development, cloud architecture, and CS education. I’ve done everything from building automation tools, managing infrastrucute, and teaching algorithms to middle schoolers. My goal is to work on technology that has a real-world impact, making sure the technology scales and functions seamlessly so the user doesn’t have to worry about the details under the hood.

Having expierence both in teaching and engineering, I’ve learnt to solve problems with code while communicating clearly with both technical exports and novice learners. For my personal projects, I have a strong interest in computer players for my personal favorite games, which fits well into my interests in software engineering, simulation, gaming, statistics, LLMs and user interface design. Games that I have personally created tools or AIs for include: Blood on the Clocktower, Diplomacy, War of the Ring, Stardew Valley, Twilight Imperium, Lorcana, and Adventure Capitalist.

🧠 Background

I hold both a B.S. and an M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where I focused on Python development, cloud computing, and applied machine learning. During this time, I served as President of the UMass Board Game Club and developed a strong interest in creating engaging educational experiences — both in the classroom and through software.

💼 Work Highlights

  • Computer Science Teacher, Salem Academy (2025)
    Taught AI, ML, and Web Design to over 70 students; boosted AP CS enrollment by 4x. Created inclusive, custom curriculum using Code.org and JavaScript.

  • Freelance Web Developer, J Barrett & Company (2024)
    Built a React/Flask scheduling app that automated internal workflows and saved 5+ hours weekly for real estate training sessions.

  • Software Engineer Intern, FIRST Robotics (2023)
    Designed automated CI pipelines and testbeds to streamline robotic control software QA using GitHub Actions and Android Espresso.

  • Technical Intern (DevOps), Cisco (2022)
    Managed Jenkins pipelines and built internal web tools to support network switch development teams. Strengthened system reliability and testing access.

  • QA Automation Engineer Intern, Mutualink (2021)
    Automated REST API tests using ReadyAPI and custom scripts, increasing test coverage and accelerating deployments in secure comms systems.

  • Substitute CS Teacher, Ipswich Middle School (2023–24)
    Delivered interactive lessons on web and game development. Stepped in midyear and adapted on the fly to engage diverse learners.

🔧 Technical Toolkit

  • Languages: Python, JavaScript (ES6+), Java, TypeScript, C, C++, Bash, SQL
  • Frameworks: React, Node.js, Express, Flask, Spring Boot, Next.js, Angular
  • Cloud & DevOps: AWS (EC2, Lambda, S3), Docker, Kubernetes, Jenkins, GitHub Actions, Terraform
  • Databases: MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, DynamoDB, SQLite
  • Testing: pytest, JUnit, Selenium, ReadyAPI, CI/CD pipelines
  • Tools: Git, Jira, Trello, Google Classroom, Code.org

🏆 Leadership & Recognition

  • Eagle Scout, BSA
  • President, UMass Board Game Club (2022–24)
  • Captain, High School Robotics Team
  • President, High School Math Team
  • ARML Alternate Division High Scorer (2018)

📍 Location & Availability

I’m based in the Greater Boston area and available immediately. I’m open to in-person or hybrid roles in the U.S. or U.K.
I’d would love to talk more if you’re interested in creating something!