Kevin Boyd

Senior Software Developer, SmugMug

I started Whateverthing in 2010 as a place to write down tech notes and show off my hobby projects.

Teaching readers about PHP, JS, and software development practices is quite satisfying. It can be a lot of work to write How-To guides, and being able to reference them later on is immensely helpful. I also enjoy sharing lighter updates on things I find around the Internet.

As a remote worker since joining SmugMug in 2017, I've been privileged to work with a team of amazing developers spread over several countries.

Remote work can be tough. You don't get as much time to socialize with your coworkers, and that can impact team communication. In my experience, writing long-form content provides a great way to practice information organization and clearer communication of complex ideas.

I have a deep and abiding interest in all manner of computers and technology. This started way back when I got a Commodore 64 in the early 1990s, and has continued unabated ever since. I've gone from the C64, to experimenting with triple-booting operating systems (Windows, BeOS, RedHat), and beyond. Now I live in a house full of Apples and Raspberries. Along the way, I've learned PHP, JS, C++, SQL, Bash, and the list goes on. I've done server administration by hand, and also by using tools like Ansible. Most importantly, I've used these skills to build many projects, open source libraries, and information systems over the years.

For a while, if asked what my hobbies were, I would answer that Programming is top of the list. Over the past 10+ years, however, Photography has superseded that as my main hobby. One of my favourite photographic accomplishments is a series of year-long Photo-A-Day challenges that I've completed. These projects have given me many great opportunities to hone my photography and photo processing skills.

I've also taken an interest in underwater exploration using Remotely Operated Vehicles. I'm hoping that my photography skills will translate to some great photos and video from under the sea. Maybe I'll even find a way to parlay it into buying the sailboat I've always wanted.

Speaking of Sailing, I've joined a local Sailing Co-Operative. As the Membership Director and Webmaster, I'm able to bring my tech skills to the table to build and manage the co-op's website. We're looking for new members, so if you're near the Sooke area, think about joining! It's an affordable way to get out on the water.

Thanks for reading Whateverthing.

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To stay tuned for upcoming video content, including underwater ROV videos and a series of videos about Remote Work, subscribe to my YouTube channel.