About me
Welcome to my website! I'm a Belarusian-born Israeli who now resides in Canada. My diverse background has allowed me to develop a unique perspective and skill set.
After earning a diploma in computer engineering from college, I was selected for a military program where I worked on an Air Force project while completing my studies. I then spent three years working in an R&D team, where I focused on planning, building, installing, and supporting digital hardware systems using VHDL coding.
In 2016, I moved to Canada and pursued a degree in Computer Engineering at the University of Waterloo. I graduated in 2022 and am now working in the back-end and full-stack fields. I enjoy working on embedded and software projects, making music, and staying active with sports. With fluency in three languages and a strong work ethic, I'm excited to continue growing my skills and making an impact in my industry.
My Skills
JavaScript / Python / Kotlin / SQL / React / Node.js
Java / TypeScript / HTML / CSS / Spring Boot
C# / .NET / MongoDB / Git / Embedded Systems
Angular / Linux / Docker / Digital Hardware
C / Django / Redis / AWS / Android / FPGA
C++ / Rust / Bash / Verilog / Neo4j / Azure
Artiom Tsimkin
Skills
- Experience with C, C#, Python, Kotlin, and Java through different projects.
- Working knowledge of TypeScript, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.
- Used SQL and NoSQL in MySQL, SSMS, Redis, MongoDB, and Neo4j databases.
- Studied web development and worked on web projects.
- Languages: English, Hebrew, and Russian.
- 3 years of working with FPGAs, VHDL, and digital hardware for the military.
- Experience with embedded systems, ARM, MSP, Verilog, digital design, and Assembly.
- Worked with Linux, Git, Jira, Docker, AWS, Azure, REST API, GraphQL, React, Angular, .NET, Spring, Node.js, Django, Kotest, Selenium, Kafka, NATS.io, Grafana, Swagger, Bootstrap, and more.
Experience
JULY 2022 – FEBRUARY 2023
Software Engineer / Qohash, Quebec City, QC
- Worked on replacing the AWS Kinesis streaming technology with Apache Kafka, resulting in a 20% improvement in startup and operation times, maintainability, testing, and reduced annual costs.
- Implemented a real-time record interceptor in Kotlin to efficiently manage multi-tenancy for the application and added visual metrics and monitoring using Grafana, thereby improving system performance.
- Migrated multiple projects to Spring Boot 3, enriching functionality while maintaining backward compatibility.
- Contributed to enhancing the coverage of unit, integration, and end-to-end testing with Kotest and Karate.
SEPTEMBER 2021 – DECEMBER 2021
Full-Stack Developer / Entripy Custom Clothing, Oakville, ON
- Developed full-stack features of a web application using TypeScript, Angular, and RESTful services, including implementing a responsive UI design and integrating third-party libraries to enhance functionality.
- Improved testing coverage by writing C# unit tests and end-to-end tests with SpecFlow and Selenium, resulting in a 10% reduction in reported bugs in production.
- Supported the CI/CD pipeline and maintained Azure Service Bus functions.
NOVEMBER 2020 – DECEMBER 2020
Application Developer / QBuild Software, Markham, ON
- Delivered front-end features using Kendo UI for jQuery and tackled the technical debt of a corporate legacy application, significantly boosting overall performance and user experience.
- Resolved critical bugs and implemented new features by developing back-end functionality using C# and SQL.
SEPTEMBER 2020 – OCTOBER 2020
Web Developer / 416 Automation, Mississauga, ON
- Designed and implemented Windows Services to remotely monitor disk space usage on a production line, proactively alerting on-site engineers to ensure continuous operation of critical equipment.
- Utilized ASP.NET Core Razor Pages to maintain a test result web application, including building helpful menus, demonstrating expertise in web development and user experience design.
JANUARY 2020 – APRIL 2020
Software Developer / Clearpath, Kitchener, ON
- Designed and developed a robust testing manager using Python and ROS for self-driving robots, resulting in significant time and cost savings by reducing production testing and field maintenance efforts by hours.
- Implemented a plugin manager to ease the process of adding new tests, improving scalability and maintenance.
- Developed a custom UI to facilitate remote testing and real-time status updates for maintenance personnel, enabling streamlined and efficient management of testing processes.
MAY 2019 – AUGUST 2019
Embedded Software Engineer / Redline Communications, Markham, ON
- Upgraded the S-parameter test set of a network analyzer to utilize an ARM Cortex-M4 processor, enabling customization in functionality and achieving high-performance precision at a low cost.
- Added USB interfacing to the ARM board and built a CLI in C to operate the RF components, set converter thresholds, configure SPIs, and write to Flash memory, enabling test engineers to run complex tests with ease.
SEPTEMBER 2018 – DECEMBER 2018
System Support Technician / Ministry of the Attorney General, Toronto, ON
- Developed a security application in C# to assist with transferring information securely company-wide using a custom encryption algorithm.
- Developed PowerShell scripts to automate procedures and backups, speeding up workflows by up to 200%.
- Used Batch to develop an automatic backup tool to reduce the need for manual backups.
JANUARY 2018 – APRIL 2018
Software Quality Assurance Analyst / Ministry of Education, Toronto, ON
- Managed and executed test scripts using SQL in an Oracle database to ensure smooth daily deployment.
- Used ALM, UFT, PL/SQL, Toad, IBM Cognos, and virtual machines to test applications on the front-end, back-end, and database sides.
JULY 2013 – JUNE 2016
FPGA Design Engineer / Israeli Air Force, Israel
- Developed VHDL code in ISE for Xilinx Virtex FPGAs and verified functionality using test benches, demonstrating expertise in digital design and simulation.
- Collaborated with senior engineers to design circuits in OrCAD, constructed wire-wrap prototypes, and tested them on mockup systems, ensuring reliable operation in high-stakes military environments.
- Contributed to hardware and software projects in a diverse team, communicating effectively with experts in various domains, to enable secure and seamless communication between air, land, and satellite assets.
- Proficiently utilized electronic tools such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, signal generators, and logic analyzers to test and repair circuits, demonstrating hands-on experience with electronics testing and troubleshooting.
Education
SEPTEMBER 2017 – APRIL 2022
Bachelor of Applied Science / Computer Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON
- $2000 President’s Scholarship of Distinction.
- Excellent academic standing with a full course load while being ranked in the top quarter.
SEPTEMBER 2011 – JUNE 2013
College Diploma / Computer Engineering, Kinneret College, Israel
- Graduated with an overall A+ average while working on a project for the military: a communication board with voltage and data converters, RAM, LCD and controlled by Spartan 6 FPGA for the Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk military helicopter.
- Was chosen to assist a team with building a robot for the FIRST Robotics Competition.
Projects and more
- Created a responsive culinary app that suggests recipes based on what is available in the fridge.
- Developed a dynamic MERN app, showcasing movies with detailed info, streaming, and telemetry.
- Built an Android app with friends that matches people for video dining based on interests.
- Developed a recipe app with a friend, simplifying household favorite management.
- Crafted an encryption app in C# for Windows, featuring a custom algorithm.
- Created a full-stack employee records app for efficient management.
- Worked on an Android Truth Or Dare game with friends.
- Developed a library manager in Python using large Kaggle datasets.
- Constructed a JavaScript tool that reminds employees to record their temperature during COVID.
- Designed a Batch tool for background file backups.
- Created a PowerShell script to manage server restarts and shutdowns.
- Built a JavaScript game similar to SkyRoads.
- Designed and created this responsive personal website.
- Developed a Windows service for disk space monitoring and email notifications.
- Created a mobile game where players earn points by swinging their devices.
- Assembled a Raspberry Pi-powered smart mirror that displays widgets.
- Developed a car toy that follows the user during a hackathon.
- Made a toy that shows the temperature when the user claps.
- Designed an embedded system that manages a greenhouse over a CLI.
- Built a touch-display clock using a Discovery board by ST.
- Constructed a device that flips pages as the user reads for a hackathon.
- Created a Simon Says game with lights and sounds for a programming course.
- Built a small board to control lights in drawers and shelves.
- Installed a GPS module, a touch screen, reverse sensors, and fancy lights on my car.
- Developed a simple 5-stage pipeline RISC-V processor in Verilog.
- Worked on a wireless robot during a university competition.
- Grade 12 project: a robot with an arm that avoids obstacles and picks things up.
- Grade 11 project: light-sensitive car counter for a parking lot.
Software
Feed Me
JavaScript, React, Python, Django, Redis, SQLite
Feed Me transforms home cooking into an enjoyable and effortless experience. Featuring 12,000+ recipes and 1,000+ ingredients, the app offers base items and a unique matching threshold feature. Discover exciting dishes based on what's in your fridge, and elevate your culinary adventures with ease!
Movie Board
JavaScript, React, Node.js, MongoDB
A dynamic movie website designed to immerse users in the world of cinema. This platform offers a multitude of features, including access to trending movies and TV shows, detailed movie searches, recommendations for similar films, streaming options, and comprehensive movie information. Users can explore genres, overviews, trailers, cast, reviews, and more. Additionally, Movie Board provides telemetry data, displaying visitor statistics for the past month.
dineShare
Python, JavaScript, Kotlin, Android, Node.js, Flask, AWS
As part of a fourth-year design project, my team and I introduced dineShare, an Android-based social dining app that served as a beacon of connection during the challenging times of COVID-19. My specific contribution to this project involved developing a Python-based optimization engine. This engine intelligently matches users for conversations based on their selected interests, fostering meaningful interactions in the best possible way.
RestRo
JavaScript, Java, Spring, MySQL, Docker
This feature-rich platform offers a seamless experience for recipe enthusiasts. Users can effortlessly list, update, add, and delete recipes, catering to their culinary creativity. RestRo goes beyond language barriers by providing support for multiple languages. It encompasses an array of essential fields, including comments, descriptions, ingredients, instructions, and more, to enhance the cooking journey for users worldwide.
Crypto
C#, Windows Forms
Developed a robust text encryption and decryption tool for secure information transfer. Features include user login, clear instructions, text file export, and support for three encryption methods.
Employeezee
JavaScript, React, Node.js, MySQL, Docker
This versatile tool empowers users to effortlessly create, display, update, and delete employee records. Employeezee incorporates intuitive validation and confirmation features for smooth and efficient record management.
Truth Or Dare
Java, Android
Collaboratively developed a popular Android party game for up to 15 players. This app offers audio support, a dynamic scoreboard, and extensive customization options for hundreds of truths and dares.
Library Management
Python, SQL
Designed and built a powerful library management tool that handles books, checkouts, authors, publishers, user data, addresses, late returns, and more.
TempTracker
JavaScript, Google Apps Script
Developed a user-friendly reminder system for employees to record daily temperatures during the COVID pandemic. Features include direct links to Google Sheets, reminder tracking, and automated end-of-day reports to management.
AutoDoc
Batch, Windows
A background backup tool that empowers users to schedule folder backups with precision. It intelligently handles missing folders, path errors, duplicates, and provides comprehensive logs.
Server Manager
PowerShell, Windows
Engineered a script to monitor server statuses on the network, providing real-time updates, change timestamps, and the capability to restart or shut down servers as needed.
BlockRide
HTML, CSS, JavaScript
A thrilling game reminiscent of SkyRoads, challenging players to navigate 10 levels while evading flying obstacles.
CalculatoR
C#, Windows Forms
A classic calculator app with common functionality for Windows users, combining functionality with aesthetics.
This Website
HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Bootstrap
Revamped my personal website, harnessing JavaScript and Bootstrap for responsiveness, enhanced aesthetics with Google Fonts, integrated a map, and introduced captivating animations.
Embedded
Magic Mirror
Python + Raspberry Pi
Crafted a smart mirror using a two-way glass overlay on a Raspberry Pi-powered monitor. This innovative mirror displays real-time information, including the time, weather updates, latest news, and daily motivational quotes.
Prototype for a military communication board
VHDL + Spartan FPGA
In my second year of college, I contributed to a significant project at a military base. I played a pivotal role in designing a board later mass-produced and installed on military aircraft. The board featured an FPGA running on VHDL code, voltage and data converters, RAM, and an LCD.
Automated RF Test Station
C + ARM Cortex-M
During my third work term, I developed an automated RF test environment. A user-friendly CLI offers functionality to efficiently measure the S-parameters of boards and components, streamlining the testing process.
Maintenance Server
Python, ROS
During my fourth work term, I developed a Python-based testing service, integral to the ROS system of self-driving robots. This service revolutionized the assembly and field maintenance processes by executing both manual and automated tests on the robot's hardware. Its efficiency not only saved valuable time but also enhanced the reliability of the robots.
TeslaToy
C + Arduino
During a hackathon event, I collaborated with two friends to transform a conventional toy into an interactive user-following car. The car utilized GPS and accelerometer data from the user's phone to autonomously track and follow them, controlled by an Arduino.
Tempocute
C + Arduino
This charming gadget displays temperature in both Celsius and Fahrenheit when clapped twice. Powered by A4 batteries, it adapts its display color based on ambient light conditions, combining functionality with a touch of whimsy.
Greenhouse Watcher
C + MSP430
As part of a school project, a friend and I designed an agriculture monitoring system for greenhouses. This system managed temperature and soil moisture in different zones by controlling ventilation and aggregation motors. Data was displayed on an LCD, and the system could be controlled via a CLI. We also designed and ordered a custom PCB for the final prototype.
TouchClock
Java
Crafted a touch-controlled clock using the ST Discovery board and their GUI software, offering an elegant and interactive time-telling experience.
Flipper
C, Java + Arduino, Android
During another hackathon, a friend and I engineered a device that flips book pages as the user reads. Controlled by the user's voice commands or an Android app, a simple "Forward" or "Backward" would trigger page turns, offering a unique reading experience.
Simon Says
C++ + Omega2
As part of a programming course, two friends and I developed an engaging Simon Says game. Featuring vibrant lights, captivating sounds, and ten challenging levels, the game also analyzed and presented statistics on the performance of different player groups.
Lightus
Hardware
In college, I designed a small board to automatically illuminate dark drawers and shelves when opened. Integrated with LEDs and sensors, it sensed darkness and open drawers or shelves, enhancing convenience in everyday life.
Car Stuff
Hardware
Collaborating with my dad, we enhanced my car's functionality with reverse and tire pressure sensors, stylish lighting, a reverse camera, GPS capabilities, a touchscreen interface, and more.
Non-Technical
Music
Fruity Loops
Throughout high school and college, I passionately played the guitar, collaborated with friends to create covers, and recorded original songs. It was a proud moment when one of my compositions was featured on the radio.
Editing
Adobe Creative Suite
In my free time, I embarked on a creative exploration of visual storytelling. I honed my skills in Adobe Photoshop, After Effects, and Flash, enabling me to craft captivating animations, as well as edit and enhance photos and videos with precision.
Drawing
pen and paper
During my high school years, I immersed myself in the world of art and creativity. I channeled my imagination into drawing comics and anime, producing visually captivating and imaginative pieces that reflected my passion for storytelling through art.
© Artiom Tsimkin University of Waterloo ©