Newton Cuff

Tech Lead - Full Stack Engineer

  • Richmond, TX 77406, USA
  • 832-206-0989
  • Newton.Cuff@gmail.com
  • linkedin.com/in/newtoncuff
  • github.com/newtoncuff

Professional Summary

With 15 years of experience as a Tech Lead and Senior Developer, I have a strong track record in leading high-performing teams and delivering robust software solutions. My expertise includes C#, Python, JavaScript, Bash, and proficiency in SQL, MySQL, and NoSQL databases. In addition to development, I excel in mentoring junior developers, guiding career growth, conducting code reviews, and fostering team excellence. My leadership style focuses on collaboration, continuous learning, and innovation. I am skilled in client-facing roles, translating technical requirements and simplifying complex concepts for non-technical stakeholders. With a solid foundation in DevOps practices, including networking, environment management, and CI/CD using tools like Azure and TFS, I ensure efficient, high-quality software delivery.

Skills

Programming

  • VB
  • C#
  • .NET
  • Bash
  • Python
  • HTML/CSS
  • TypeScript
  • JavaScript/jQuery

Database

  • SQL
  • Redis
  • MySQL
  • NoSQL
  • SQLite
  • MongoDB
  • PostgreSQL

DevOps & Tools

  • SSMS
  • CD/CI
  • Azure
  • Linux
  • Neovim
  • Docker
  • Postman
  • VS Code
  • MS SQL Server
  • Redgate Tools
  • Visual Studio
  • Application Insights
  • GitHub/GitLab/SVN/Git
  • Team Foundation Server
  • AI Tools (Copilot, GPT, Claude)

Architecture & Design

  • MVC
  • Web development
  • DevOps principles
  • Full-Stack Development
  • User Acceptance Testing
  • Microservices architecture
  • API design and development
  • Quality assurance lifecycle
  • Software architecture design
  • Database design and architecture

Leadership

  • Client liason
  • Team leadership
  • Hiring/Onboarding
  • Mentoring/Tutoring
  • Project management
  • Team cohesion/building
  • Code/Performance Review
  • Asset/Resource Management

Experience

Tech Lead - Full Stack Engineer

Willis Towers Watson Via Benefits Houston, TX
May 2021 - Current
  • Lead a team of engineers in code reviews, deployments, project and cost scoping, asset and team management
  • Collaborated with data processing personnel and project managers to gather data processing limitations or capabilities
  • Conduct new hire interviews and onboarding, provide continuous mentoring and deliver feedback to ensure growth
  • Oversee and lead all releases, software implementations, and new software adoption for multiple clients
  • Deliver client projects in a timely manner, leading to positive contract renewal talks and retaining existing clients

Senior Software Engineer

Willis Towers Watson Via Benefits Houston, TX
September 2018 - April 2021
  • Design and develop in-house applications, publishing internal papers identifying improvements and best practices
  • Achieved functional requirements by creating cutting-edge software solutions
  • Manage multiple clients (ranging from 5k to 1 million employees) and ensure their needs are met, enhancing their systems without jeopardizing core functionalities
  • Plan and maintain a constant stream of ongoing and backlogged work to ensure smooth workflows for both developers and clients
  • Developed solutions based on data-driven approaches and good understanding of current and future software needs

Lead Software Engineer

Self-Employed Northampton, UK
August 2014 - July 2018
  • Worked closely with clients to help them achieve their software needs, providing tailored solutions
  • Developed efficient software solutions to meet client requirements
  • Redesigned and updated software and databases to accommodate changing business requirements
  • Streamlined software management processes, improving scalability and efficiency
  • Engaged in regular communication with clients to ensure the software was adaptable and responsive to evolving needs

Software Engineer

Oakleaf Ltd. Northampton, UK
July 2009 - July 2014
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of software components
  • Created comprehensive documentation detailing system designs, user guides, and technical specifications
  • Implemented enhancements and bug fixes for existing software applications
  • Utilized version control systems such as Git or SVN for efficient collaboration and project management
  • Migrated legacy systems to modern platforms ensuring compatibility without sacrificing functionality

Education

BSc (Honours) in Computing : Software Engineering (First Class)
The University of Northampton
May 2006 - July 2009
Northampton, UK

Additional Information

Proficient in leveraging AI tools to increase efficiency in development workflows and optimize project outcomes. Possess strong cross-cultural communication skills developed through international client-facing experience and colleagues.

About Me

Gardening

An avid gardener who eagerly anticipates each growing season, with a particular passion for cultivating spicy peppers.

Soccer

Passionate Arsenal supporter with a complicated love affair - they're simultaneously my favorite and least favorite team.

Homelab Enthusiast

Enthusiastic homelabber who believes if software can be self-hosted, it's probably already running on my servers. Love testing new software and honing skills in self-contained environments.