Derek Laventure

Opensource Web Hacker

A hacker in the sense of a "general problem solver" as described by Eric S. Raymond, specializing in opensource systems administration and web software development. I have a formal training in Computer Science, but I've been tinkering and itch-scratching with computers for the better part of 40 years. I also take pride in my excellent communication and teamwork skills, having honed my "people skills" in customer service roles before working in various configurations of development teams.

I have spent more than 20 years administering Linux servers for my own and others' purposes, and then building software on top of them. I've learned the ins and outs of domain registrars, DNS and email systems, firewalls, databases, and webservers. Meanwhile, I've gone from custom-built PHP/MySQL applications to full-fledged Content Management Frameworks like Drupal. I've watched the web evolve into the primary interface most people have with the Internet, and explored many of the various web-based systems, implementing ecommerce shops, re-architecting large public-facing sites, managing large scale data migrations, and developing user-focused accessible and usable interface design.

As a student of Cognitive Science, I have maintained an interest in this area as terms like AI and neuroscience have become commonplace. I am also keenly interested in human learning, development, and how we model technology to support, enhance and uplift humanity.

I have had many excellent opportunities to work with small- to medium-sized social mission organizations (ie. non-profits, NGOs, advocacy and activist groups), bringing a range of technology support, development, and strategy skills mixed with a strong progressive political analysis.

Specialties: Drupal development, Opensource intelligence, Left-progressive organizational sensibility :)