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From Frontend Developer to Full-Stack Innovator/Frontend Architect: My Journey in Tech

From Frontend Developer to Full-Stack Innovator/Frontend Architect: My Journey in Tech

Sunil Biradar · September 1, 2024

As a senior software developer with 9 years of experience, I've had the privilege of working on a diverse range of projects that have shaped my career and honed my skills. Today, I want to share my journey and the key experiences that have defined my professional growth.

Mastering the Frontend

My journey began with a deep dive into frontend technologies. Over the years, I've become proficient in a wide array of tools and frameworks, including:

  • ReactJS and Next.js for building scalable and performant web applications
  • Redux and Redux Toolkit for state management
  • Material UI and Styled-Components for creating visually appealing interfaces
  • TypeScript for adding type safety to JavaScript projects

One of my proudest achievements was leading the development of the TCN Website at Publicis Groupe. This project allowed me to showcase my skills in building complex applications from the ground up, utilizing technologies like React, Redux-Toolkit, and Material-UI.

Embracing Full-Stack Development

As my career progressed, I realized the importance of understanding the entire technology stack. This led me to expand my skillset to include backend technologies and cloud services. Some key areas I've focused on include:

  • Node.js and Express.js for server-side development
  • AWS services such as Lambda, DynamoDB, and CloudFormation for building scalable, serverless applications
  • GraphQL for efficient data fetching and manipulation

At the Department of Alcoholic and Beverage Control, I had the opportunity to design and implement a comprehensive GraphQL API for the ABC Price Posting application. This project allowed me to leverage advanced GraphQL features and integrate them seamlessly with AWS services like AppSync and Lambda.

Championing Best Practices and Innovation

Throughout my career, I've been a strong advocate for best practices in software development. Some of the key areas I've focused on include:

  • Implementing robust testing strategies using Jest, Enzyme, and React Testing Library
  • Setting up efficient CI/CD pipelines using tools like Circle-CI and GitHub Actions
  • Promoting code quality through thorough code reviews and documentation

I'm particularly proud of my work at CalHeers, where I served as a Frontend Technical Lead. In this role, I was responsible for planning and developing reusable ReactJS components, which significantly improved our team's efficiency and code consistency.

Tackling Complex Challenges

One of the most exciting aspects of my career has been the opportunity to work on challenging projects that push the boundaries of what's possible with web technologies. Some notable examples include:

  • Developing a secure identity management system using AWS Cognito at the Child Welfare Digital Service
  • Creating a custom search engine from scratch using Elasticsearch at the Department of Alcoholic and Beverage Control
  • Implementing real-time updates using GraphQL subscriptions for critical features in the ABC Price Posting system

Looking to the Future

As I continue to grow in my career, I'm excited about the evolving landscape of web development. I'm particularly interested in:

  • Exploring the potential of Web3 technologies and blockchain integration in enterprise applications
  • Diving deeper into machine learning and AI to create more intelligent and responsive web applications
  • Continuing to refine my skills in cloud-native development and serverless architectures

Conclusion

My journey as a senior software developer has been filled with exciting challenges, continuous learning, and rewarding experiences. I'm grateful for the opportunities I've had to work on impactful projects and collaborate with talented teams. As I look to the future, I'm excited to take on new challenges and continue pushing the boundaries of what's possible in web development.

If you're interested in collaborating or learning more about my experiences, feel free to reach out. I'm always happy to connect with fellow developers and share insights from my journey in the world of technology.