About
I am a Microsoft .NET, Sitecore, and JavaScript developer working just outside Atlanta, GA.
Besides web and software development, I enjoy creative writing, photography, hiking, and good bourbon.
As a software developer, I believe that simplicity is the root of quality.
I have written and published a few web apps and aim to share my tools, experience, and knowledge as a proficient .NET and Sitecore developer.
My professional résumé is always available online.
Sitecore
Since early 2011, I have focused on developing awesome Sitecore solutions for a variety of clients. Today, I share my experience via mentoring, speaking, and Sitecore Spark.
Sitecore Spark
Sitecore Spark is my blog for Sitecore development best-practices, technical tips, and industry perspectives.
Sitecore MVP
Thanks to a wonderful community and my involvement with Sitecore Spark, I was selected as a Sitecore MVP (Technologist) from 2018 to 2021.
Speaking
I've presented Sitecore-based topics to numerous clients, user groups, and colleagues. Looking for an interesting topic at a user group or conference? See the Speaking section below.
Sitecore
I'm currently a Solution Engineer with Sitecore, Inc. I focus on demoing the next generation of headless, composable DXP solutions to upcoming Sitecore customers.
Projects
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Budgeter
A money management tool written for my personal workflow that is expanding into a complete budgeting tool.
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Spark Server Lite
A simple, open-source .NET 8 blog platform that powers Sitecore Spark and my technical blog, Refactor.
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Sitecore Publish Reporting Kit (SPRK)
Provides detailed publish logging and reporting for Sitecore.
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Recipe Library
Recipe Library provides a simple and secure place to store recipes with a no-fuss interface.
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Responsible Images 2
Version 2 of my RWD image loader. I streamlined the implementation process for developers, enabling super-simple image scaling across breakpoints.
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Content Author Tokens for Sitecore (CATS)
Simple, token-based content replacement for common Sitecore fields.
Speaking
I've presented diverse technology topics to clients, colleagues, and conferences all over the world. Whether mentoring one-on-one or presenting to an auditorium of hundreds, my goals are the same: spark conversation, foster new ideas, and educate fellow developers.
A few of my favorite engagements so far:
- Atlanta Developer Conference
- Scenic City Summit
- CodeMash
- Nebraska.Code()
- CodeStock
- ...and numerous Sitecore user groups
A sampling of feedback I've received from attendees at various conferences:
- "Brandon was amazing. He truly practices what he preaches when it comes to the speaking process and formula he presented. His presentation was visually fun and appealing, also corky in a good way (e.g. colors, font, animations, etc.) This was such a valuable talk as someone wanting to start getting into speaking."
- "Good way to bring recent updates in JS to the limelight so people could become familiar. Many small pieces that I will definitely look into as possible solutions to future problems."
- "Very entertaining and approachable. Definitely demistified the idea of giving a talk."
Here are some of my favorite presentations. If you're interested in having me present one or more of the below topics, please contact me.
This is a Promise That You'll Understand Asynchronous Programming with JavaScript
JavaScript | Asynchronous programming | Promises
Learn about asynchronous programming in JavaScript by understanding the fundamentals of Promises: why they were added to the language, what you need to write your own, how async/await fix Promise chaining, recent API changes, and much more.
A React Crash Course for Backend Dinosaurs
Front-End | JavaScript | React
The future of the web is headless and composable, so join me, fellow dinosaurs, as we update our skillsets with modern JavaScript and React. Learn ES5/ES6 concepts and basic React in under 60 mins.
JavaScript: The (Really) Good Parts
JavaScript | History | Common Practices
JavaScript is old by most measurements, but it's innovating faster than ever. Learn about the (really) good parts of JavaScript - from ES3 (1999) to the latest and greatest of ES2023.
How Much Database Do You Really Need? Simplify Your Web Apps with SQLite
Databases | Architecture | Implementation
If there's beauty in simplicity, then SQLite wins the database pageant. See how a file-based database can (and can't) power your web apps.
Stop Stopping and Start Presenting: Practical Tips for Speaking at Your Favorite Technology Conferences
Soft Skills | Public Speaking
Take it from someone who hates public speaking: it's actually pretty fun! In this session, I share tips for how I overcame nerves and started public speaking at technology conferences all over the country.
The Road Not Taken: The Journey from Software Developer to Sales Engineer
Career Advice | Sales
Let's talk about what to expect (and not expect!), essential skills to bring over (and gain along the way!), and other lessons-learned in the transition from software architect to sales engineer that can help you decide if a similar career change is right for you.
From Average to Awesome In a Few Short Years
Soft Skills | Career Management
How did I go from a struggling C-average student to a successful solutions architect and Sitecore MVP? This session will highlight real tips and advice for setting proper goals and how to measurably progress towards them. Let my stories, lessons, and experiences inspire you to achieve real goals and be your very best, even if "imposter syndrome" is your middle name.