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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

June 2026 - PresentSoftware & Technical Solutions InternShoreSite Designs • Wall Township, NJ

  • Develop, redesign, and debug front-end and back-end components across client assets
  • Troubleshoot client-reported technical issues and deliver timely fixes
  • Build Claude integrations to automate internal workflows and improve team efficiency
  • Audited and optimized software licenses, cloud hosting, and third-party tools, reducing recurring technology costs by an estimated $5k+ annually
  • Implemented daily written stand-ups and restructured team meetings to improve cross-team communication
  • Implement technical and on-page SEO improvements to boost search visibility
  • Centralized company credentials in a secure vault to improve security and efficiency
  • Produce and edit short-form video content for social media marketing
September 2025 - PresentOffice CoordinatorRIT College Activities Board • Rochester, NY

  • Oversee budgets and maintain the organizational financial ledger, tracking expenses and supporting financial accuracy
  • Recruit, onboard, and train new team members on organizational processes and responsibilities
  • Optimize project management software, workflows, and automations to improve task tracking and efficiency
  • Coordinate office events, team engagement initiatives, logistics, and promotional materials
August 2025 - PresentElectronics Team MemberRIT Racing (Formula SAE) • Rochester, NY

  • Design and build a scaled wind tunnel for the aerodynamics team to test vehicle components and evaluate aerodynamic data and performance
  • Developed master and slave firmware for the Power Distribution Unit (PDU), ensuring reliable power management and communication
  • Engineered a bump load detection system using an ADXL343 accelerometer and STM32 microcontroller, implementing SPI communication for suspension testing and performance analysis
  • Collaborate with teammates to design, test, and refine vehicle electronics for competition
  • Work with CAN bus and DBC files for data transmission and system integration
June 2023 - PresentAssociate Youth Ice Hockey CoachWoodbridge Wolfpack Inc • Woodbridge, NJ

  • Design and implement practice plans and workout regimens for 32 youth athletes aged 11-16 across two hockey teams
  • Lead game-day coaching for 2-4 games weekly, including bench management, video analysis, and on-ice instruction
  • 2025 Atlantic Amateur Hockey Association District Champions
  • 2025 Atlantic Hockey Federation New Jersey Champions
October 2025 - June 2026Director of MarketingOUTspoken • Rochester, NY

  • Managed the organization’s website, digital content, and marketing strategy
  • Created flyers, newsletters, social media graphics, and promotional materials using Adobe Creative Cloud
  • Developed consistent branding across digital and print channels to promote events and organizational initiatives
  • Designed branded graphics highlighting executive board members and campus outreach
July 2025 - October 2025Fulfillment Center AssociateAmazon.com, Inc. • Monroe, NJ

  • Packed customer orders accurately in a high-volume, sub same-day fulfillment center under tight deadlines
  • Prepared standard, oversized, and specialty shipments while meeting delivery, quality, and safety standards
  • Adapted to shifting priorities and order surges while meeting hourly performance metrics
September 2021 - June 2025Independent Researcher of Node-based Anti-collision AlgorithmsColonia High School (CHS) • Colonia, NJ

Autonomous Cars at a 4-way Intersection

  • Designed and implemented a Python-based simulation POC for autonomous vehicle navigation at a 4-way intersection, achieving 100% collision avoidance
  • Developed LEGO Spike Prime prototypes to replicate and validate the simulated system
  • Built a physics engine to simulate rain, snow, and ice and evaluate system robustness
  • Integrated programming, robotics, and problem-solving to address critical challenges in autonomous vehicle safety
March 2019 - September 2024Junior Project ManagerInspired Interiors LLC • Parlin, NJ

  • Managed residential and commercial projects from planning through delivery, coordinating schedules, budgets, materials, and on-site execution
  • Performed hands-on fabrication and installation work, including custom carpentry and painting
  • Interpreted and drafted technical drawings and blueprints to support accurate project delivery
  • Reduced costs and delays by calculating material requirements and coordinating procurement
  • Coordinated teams and clients to resolve issues and keep projects aligned with specifications and deadlines

Education

August 2025 - PresentB.S. Software Engineering - Rochester Institute of TechnologyRochester, NY

    September 2021 - June 2025Colonia High SchoolColonia, NJ
    • 14 College level and AP level courses
    • 4 consecutive years of Science Research
    • 4 consecutive years of Varsity Ice Hockey

    January 2023 - June 2026Middlesex CollegeEdison, NJ
    • Intro to Comp Sci Using Java
    • Intro to Information Security
    • Various Courses in Mathematics and English

    July 2023RIT Certified High School Pro-Advantage Summer ProgramRochester, NY
    • 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

    💻 Software, Engineering & Technical

    Programming & Software Development (C, C++, C#, Python, Java, JavaScript, Ruby, .NET), Embedded & Automotive Systems (STM32, Microcontrollers, Arduino, CAN, DBC), Data Analysis & Visualisation (MATLAB, Pandas, Matplotlib, Excel), Simulation & Modelling (Simulink, MATLAB, Unreal Engine, PyGame), Database & API Development (SQL, Schema Design, REST APIs, Normalisation), Electronics & Hardware Prototyping (Sensor Integration, Circuit Assembly, Soldering), Web Development (React, Reactstrap, HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, Bootstrap), Cybersecurity (Fuzzer, Vulnerability Identification & Mitigation, Information Security), AI & Workflow Automation (Prompt Engineering, Claude Integrations, Process Automation), 3D Design & CAD

    📈 Project Management & Delivery

    Project Management Software (Jira, Asana, Trello), Agile, Scrum & Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), Project Planning, Scheduling & Task Prioritisation, Requirements Gathering & Stakeholder Coordination, Progress Tracking, Risk Identification & Issue Resolution, Process Improvement & Workflow Optimisation, Budget Tracking & Resource Coordination, Technical Troubleshooting & Root-Cause Analysis

    🛠️ Research, Prototyping & Design

    Prototype Development & Testing, Technical Research & Research Methodology, UI/UX Design (Figma, HTML5, CSS3, Bootstrap), Visual Design (Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Graphic Design), Technical & Research Report Writing

    💡 Leadership & Communication

    Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration, Public Speaking & Technical Presentations, Stakeholder Engagement & Requirements Discussion, Workshop Facilitation, Coaching & Mentoring, Event Planning & Coordination

    Accolades

    NAVI: Node-based Anti-collison Vehicular Interface
    • 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)

    Woodbridge Wolfpack Associate Youth Ice Hockey Coach
    • 2025 Atlantic Amateur Hockey Association (AAHA) Tier II 12U-B District Champions (2025)
    • 2025 12U McDavid Atlantic Hockey Federation (AHF) New Jersey Champions (2025)

    My CV

    get in touch

    Check out my LinkedIn and feel free to contact me!

    Joseph

    Berzolla