Alexander Powell

M.S. Software Engineering @ Penn State | AI Engineer | Python & C# | Django, .NET, AI Frameworks

Plant City, Florida, United States

About

Master’s student in Software Engineering at Penn State University, also earning a graduate certificate in Artificial Intelligence. I am a backend-focused developer with over 7 years of experience in Python and web development. My technical expertise spans Python, C#, and JavaScript, and frameworks including Flask, Django, .NET, and React. I have hands-on experience building web applications, RESTful APIs, and AI-powered integrations, gained through academic projects, professional experience, and personal initiatives. I am passionate about designing secure, scalable, and high-performance systems that solve real-world problems and drive innovation. With a strong foundation in cybersecurity and a focus on AI engineering, I continuously explore new technologies and best practices to deliver impactful solutions. I’m always open to opportunities and conversations around backend development, AI integration, and secure system design. Let’s connect!

Experience

  • Software Engineer Senior Associate- AI Tooling at ai2io
    Feb 2026 - Present · 5 mos

  • Software Developer at Sun Sign Designs Inc
    Feb 2025 - Nov 2025 · 10 mos

    Designed and implemented a production-grade AI agent (“Emily”) to automate client interactions, leveraging Python, Flask, LangChain, and OpenAI APIs. Gained hands-on experience building scalable RESTful APIs, integrating AI with web platforms, and optimizing system performance for real-world applications. Key Responsibilities & Achievements: - Designed and implemented a production-grade AI agent (“Emily”) to meet business requirements for automated client interactions. - Collaborated with stakeholders and designers to gather requirements, translate them into technical specifications, and deliver scalable RESTful APIs. - Integrated the AI solution into WordPress and deployed it with Docker on Render, ensuring reliability and maintainability. - Enhanced system performance by implementing persistent memory, caching, and refining prompt logic based on user and business feedback.

  • Senior Coding Instructor at Skill Samurai - Coding & STEM Academy AU/NZ
    May 2024 - Nov 2025 · 1 yr 7 mos

    As a Senior Coding Instructor, I taught students Python, Minecraft Java, and robotics through interactive, project-based learning. I focused on helping students develop programming fundamentals, logical thinking, and creative problem-solving skills while building real projects that strengthened their confidence in technology. Key Responsibilities & Achievements: - Taught Python programming fundamentals through hands-on coding projects. - Instructed students in Minecraft Java programming, including custom mods and game logic. - Guided robotics projects, teaching hardware-software integration and automation basics. - Provided math tutoring to reinforce logic and analytical problem-solving. - Designed interactive lessons to build computational thinking and creativity. - Mentored students to complete original coding projects and gain real-world tech confidence.

  • Sun Sign Designs Inc (Remote)
    • Software Developer - Summer Internship
      May 2024 - Aug 2024 · 4 mos

      Developed a proof-of-concept AI-powered agent to enhance user interactions and automate tasks, combining Python, LangChain, OpenAI, and full-stack web development. Gained hands-on experience in AI integration, backend development, and web technologies while following SDLC best practices. Key Responsibilities & Achievements: - Built an AI-powered agent using Python, LangChain, and OpenAI, implementing ReAct-style reasoning for contextual decision-making and accurate responses. - Followed the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) to design, develop, and optimize the agent for scalability and efficiency. - Developed a custom domain search tool to improve AI responsiveness and accuracy. - Built a Flask API to connect the AI backend with a web front end using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. - Created a WordPress plugin in PHP to deploy the AI seamlessly across client websites. - Strengthened expertise in backend development, AI integration, and full-stack web technologies through real-world applications.

    • Junior Web Developer
      Nov 2022 - May 2024 · 1 yr 7 mos

      Developed Python-based automation solutions and client websites to streamline e-commerce workflows and enhance online presence. Gained hands-on experience in Python automation, WordPress development, and e-commerce integrations, delivering scalable and efficient solutions for both internal operations and clients. Key Responsibilities & Achievements: - Developed a Python automation tool to generate CSV files for bulk WooCommerce product uploads, reducing manual work and improving efficiency by 92%. - Built and maintained WordPress websites for clients, implementing custom themes, plugins, and site functionality to enhance user experience. - Addressed time-consuming product data management challenges, freeing up team resources for strategic initiatives. - Delivered scalable automation and web solutions that supported business growth and workflow optimization. - Strengthened expertise in Python development, automation, WordPress development, and e-commerce system integration. - Collaborated with stakeholders and clients to implement solutions that improved business productivity and online presence.

    • Content Management Specialist
      Feb 2017 - Nov 2022 · 5 yrs 10 mos

      Managed client websites and web content to deliver seamless, optimized digital experiences. Responsible for domain setups, site functionality, and technical support, ensuring websites were accurate, reliable, and user-friendly. Key Responsibilities & Achievements: - Managed and updated web content, ensuring accuracy, SEO optimization, and a smooth user experience. - Configured domains and website functionality to help clients establish and maintain their online presence. - Provided technical support, troubleshooting and resolving website issues to enhance performance and reliability. - Strengthened expertise in website management, client support, and domain configuration. - Collaborated with clients to deliver efficient, user-friendly web solutions aligned with their goals.

  • Receiving Associate / BOSS at Bass Pro Shops
    Nov 2021 - Jun 2024 · 2 yrs 8 mos

    Ensure accurate inventory management and data integrity by coordinating with freight teams, verifying product counts, and maintaining precise records for customer orders. Key Responsibilities: - Collaborate with freight teams to verify and reconcile inventory counts. - Perform data entry and validation for customer orders to ensure system accuracy. - Monitor stock discrepancies and support efficient inventory tracking processes. - Maintain attention to detail in a fast-paced retail logistics environment.