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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
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
- 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
- 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
💻 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
- 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)