Hi there!
I'm
I'm a STEM-focused student, leader, and innovator, specializing in developing mission-driven solutions across technology, sports, and community engagement.
about me
Software Engineer | Embedded Systems Engineer | Science Researcher
Joseph “JD” Berzolla is a forward-thinking Software Engineer studying Software Engineering at the Rochester Institute of Technology, where they are pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree. They bring a strong academic and professional foundation across simulation development, embedded systems, electronics, web development, and data analysis, with skills in Java, Python, C, C++, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and more.
Before RIT, JD led an independent, award-winning research project on node-based anti-collision algorithms for autonomous vehicles. They designed a Python-based simulation for traffic at a four-way intersection, built physical prototypes using LEGO Spike Prime kits, and developed a custom physics engine to explore how different weather conditions affect safety and performance. This work earned multiple science fair distinctions including a Best Overall Senior Project award, reflecting their ability to turn complex ideas into tested, real-world solutions.
experience
- Oversee website management and digital content strategy
- Create flyers, newsletters, and social media visuals using Adobe Creative Cloud
- Drive event engagement through cohesive and consistent branding
- Designed branded graphics to highlight executive board members
- Oversee budgets and manage organizational financial ledger
- Coordinate in-office events and team engagement initiatives
- Support event logistics for seamless execution
- Design and distribute promotional materials, including flyers and sandwich boards
- Developing master and slave firmware for the Power Distribution Unit (PDU), ensuring reliable power management and communication
- Developed a bump load detection system using an ADXL343 accelerometer and STM32G4 microcontroller, implementing SPI communication to enable the suspension team to test suspension load and analyze performance data
- Collaborate with teammates to design, test, and refine vehicle electronics for competition readiness
- Work with CAN bus and DBC files for data transmission and system integration
- Design and implement practice plans and workout regimens to enhance individual skills and foster teamwork among 32 youth athletes aged 11-14 across two hockey teams.
- Lead game-day coaching for 2-4 games weekly, including bench management, video analysis sessions, and on-ice instruction, cultivating player development and strategic understanding.
- 2025 Atlantic Amateur Hockey Association (AAHA) Tier II 12U-B District Champions
- 2025 12U McDavid Atlantic Hockey Federation (AHF) New Jersey Champions
- Operate in a high-volume, sub same-day fulfillment center, packing customer orders with extreme accuracy under tight deadlines.
- Prepare shipments, including oversized and specialty items at VNA pack stations, to meet strict same-day delivery cutoffs while maintaining quality and safety standards.
- Adapt quickly to shifting priorities and order surges, ensuring continuous workflow in a fast-paced environment.
- Collaborate with team members to meet hourly performance metrics and contribute to overall operational efficiency.
- Manage luxury residential and commercial design projects, ensuring timely delivery and client satisfaction.
- Oversee on-site operations, coordinate teams, and ensure alignment with design blueprints and budgets.
- Draft blueprints, calculate material needs, and execute carpentry, painting, and bespoke design work.
- Collaborate with clients to deliver customized, high-quality spaces that balance functionality and elegance.
Education
- 14 College level and AP level courses
- 4 consecutive years of Science Research
- 4 consecutive years of Varsity Ice Hockey
- Intro to Comp Sci Using Java
- Intro to Information Security
- Various Courses in Mathematics and English
- Week long summer program at Rochester Institute of Technology
- Website and App Development and Design
- HTML, CSS, JavaScript
- Received Scholarship for the Program
top skills
💡 Leadership and Collaboration
Strategic Decision Making, Team Management, Public Speaking and Presentation, Stakeholder Engagement, Workshop Facilitation, Mentoring and Youth Development
📈 Project Management and Design
Research Methodology, Prototype Development, Process Improvement, User Interface and Experience (UI/UX) Design (HTML, CSS, Figma, Adobe Illustrator), Multimedia Content Creation (Adobe Photoshop, graphic design), Project Management, Report Writing, Event Organization
🤖 Technical
Python, Java, C, C++, JavaScript, Embeded Systems, Data Analysis and Visualization (Excel, Python libraries like Pandas/Matplotlib), Website Design and Development (HTML, CSS, Javascript), Simulation Development (Physics Engines, PyGame), Robotics Programming (LEGO Spike Prime, Arduino IDE), Basic Electrical Circuitry (Arduino and robotics projects), Cybersecurity Fundamentals (based on coursework), 3D Design Software (AutoCAD, SketchUp)
Accolades
- Best Overall Senior Project Award for Independent Research on Node-based Anti-collision Algorithms (2025)
- Qualified for Terra North Jersey STEM Fair (TNSJF) (2025)
- Qualified for TNJSF Science Fair (2024)
- 1st Place in Mathematics, Technology, and Computer Science Group (Sophomore Division) at Woodbridge SETS Science Fair (2023)
- 2nd Place Overall (Sophomore Division) at Woodbridge SETS Science Fair (2023)
- 1st Place in Mathematics, Technology, and Computer Science Group (Freshman Division) at Woodbridge SETS Science Fair (2022)
- 2nd Place Overall (Freshman Division) at Woodbridge SETS Science Fair (2022)
- Science Fair 1st Place in Mathematics, Technology, and Computer Science group (2022)
- 2025 Atlantic Amateur Hockey Association (AAHA) Tier II 12U-B District Champions (2025)
- 2025 12U McDavid Atlantic Hockey Federation (AHF) New Jersey Champions (2025)