About

Full-Stack Software Engineer | Puzzle Solver | Creative Collaborator

I'm thrilled by puzzles. Not jigsaw puzzles—although when one is before me, I get carried away—but real-life puzzles. Untangling string lights is more delightful than the actual holiday decorations. The best puzzles are the ones that, once solved, make someone's life genuinely easier.

As a software engineer, this translates to a passion for helping people meet their needs efficiently.

My name is James Valeii. I write PHP, Python, and JavaScript.

I'm currently the PHP Developer for goop. My team is fantastic. I am proud of our work.

My tech journey began at fifteen, during a week-long summer camp. We created simple websites using HTML and CSS. I felt that I had a license to explore software. I continued writing code, cracking video games, and configuring PCs.

What I Do

I'm a full-stack developer with expertise across multiple languages and technologies. My core toolkit includes PHP, SQL, jQuery, JavaScript, Python, and BASH scripting. I also have front-end skills in HTML, SASS, and CSS. I work extensively with containerized applications using Docker, Composer, and WebPack. I'm proficient in version control using GIT and SVN for collaborative development.

While I'm comfortable across the entire stack, I specialize in backend development. I particularly focus on creating and managing content management systems (CMS) that are actually user-friendly and intuitive to use.

My favorite projects yield software that automates data management, streamlines user interfaces, and renders data in unique ways. I also bring expertise in SEO, database migration, AI integration, and decentralized networks, including the fediverse and crypto technologies.

My Journey

While in college, I worked in many environments. I did construction, landscaping, greenhouse and farm labor. I worked in food service, from waitstaff to kitchen. I was an art museum security guard. In nonprofits, I served as marketing specialist, fund development coordinator, program director, and community organizer. I even worked as a Pacific Ocean salmon seiner deckhand and boat cook. Each role taught me something valuable about how people work and what they need from technology.

I earned my Bachelor of Science from Western Michigan University with dual majors, Urban & Regional Planning and Rhetoric in Writing. I developed competency with ArcGIS mapping software. I honed my technical and creative writing skills through courses that delved into print and digital marketing.

Seeing nonprofits overcharged for basic services, I founded Boiling Pot Media in May 2014, a marketing agency that thrived for seven years. We focused on creating self-service WordPress solutions and educational programs that helped organizations take control of their digital infrastructure.

Boiling Pot Media provided hosting, social media management and automation, customized newsletters, e-commerce, and web forms with specialized utilities. I also developed educational content and programs to help nonprofits take charge of their digital infrastructure.

What Makes Me Different

My wide range of professional experiences gives me a unique edge in understanding the conditions and challenges that prospective software users face. I can anticipate pain points because I've likely experienced them myself. This perspective allows me to design systems that improve users' lives rather than adding complexity.

I'm known for being kind, patient, and collaborative. People generally find it easy to work with me. I tend to keep workspaces jovial. I am calm during a crisis. I believe in a cooperative mindset and the open-source ideals—cooperation has been a through line in my entire life.

I'm one of the cofounders of Kalamazoo Collective Housing, Kalamazoo's first housing cooperative. I helped with marketing, policy documentation, fundraising, board service, and property renovation.

I contribute answers on StackOverflow when I can and like to contribute to open-source projects. My open source projects include: Toggle Admin Toolbar.

Beyond the Code

When I'm not solving technical puzzles, I'm creating in other mediums. I draw with charcoal, write poetry and fiction, and take photographs. Art and code aren't separate worlds for me—they're creative outlets, problem-solving tools, and modes of communication.

I'm a parent to three incredible children who constantly inspire me with their curiosity and creativity. I'm also married to someone whose keen mind, beautiful smile, and contagious laughter helped me find direction and purpose in life.

You might find me out on long runs, where I do some of my best thinking about complex problems. There's something about the rhythm of running that helps untangle even the most stubborn puzzles.

Let's Connect

I closed Boiling Pot Media in 2021 to focus my energy on being an excellent software engineer. Although I'm not currently seeking employment opportunities, I'm always open to meaningful connections. People who value creativity, thoughtful problem-solving, and being a positive force in the world are always welcome to reach out. So - say hello!