Ben Wagner

Senior Software Engineer | Enterprise Modernization & AI-Assisted Development | Java, React, AWS

Lincoln, Nebraska, United States

About

I’m a Senior Software Engineer focused on modernizing secure, enterprise-scale platforms without disrupting the customers who depend on them. Over 7+ years at Fortra, I’ve helped evolve legacy systems into more maintainable, scalable architectures across Java, React, AWS, backend services, and security-sensitive product areas. Some of my biggest wins include leading the re-architecture of a legacy JSF web client into React, driving Java modernization efforts, improving build systems with Gradle, engineering proxy capabilities for secure client connectivity, and integrating AI-driven threat intelligence into GoAnywhere MFT. I’m strongest where the work is complex, ambiguous, and business-critical - the kind of engineering that requires careful design, reliable execution, and deep respect for production systems. I’m known for being dependable under pressure, practical in my technical decisions, and committed to leaving systems better than I found them. I enjoy mentoring teammates, improving development practices, and using modern tools - including AI-assisted workflows - to move faster without lowering the bar for quality, security, or long-term maintainability.

Experience

  • Fortra (Full-time · 7 yrs 9 mos)
    • Senior Software Engineer
      May 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 2 mos

      Led the full re-architecture of a legacy JSF web client into React, improving accessibility and customer experience while modernizing both client- and server-side code without disrupting functionality. Integrated Fortra Threat Brain (AI-driven threat intelligence) into GoAnywhere MFT, providing proactive protection against malicious IPs and strengthening enterprise security posture.

    • Software Engineer III
      Jun 2022 - May 2024 · 2 yrs

      Drove a large-scale modernization of the legacy codebase to Java 11, increasing maintainability, boosting test coverage, and reducing technical debt. Engineered proxy capabilities (HTTP/SOCKS5) in GoAnywhere Gateway, enabling secure client connections and reducing downtime risks for enterprise customers.

    • Software Engineer II
      Jul 2021 - Jun 2022 · 1 yr

      Led the modernization of development environments and build systems, completing a multi-phase migration to Gradle that streamlined builds and improved developer productivity. Mentored junior developers and coordinated project timelines to ensure timely delivery of complex features and bug fixes in line with agile sprints.

  • Software Developer at TurfGrade
    May 2018 - Dec 2018 · 8 mos

  • Xpanxion (2 yrs 7 mos)
    • Software Development Engineer In Test
      May 2017 - Oct 2018 · 1 yr 6 mos

    • Intern
      Apr 2016 - May 2017 · 1 yr 2 mos

  • GIS Intern at City of Minden, Nebraska
    May 2016 - Aug 2016 · 4 mos

    Performed basic mapping and data collection for the City of Minden utilities department. Extensive use of the Beehive GIS asset software.

  • QA Intern at The Buckle, Inc.
    Feb 2015 - Sep 2015 · 8 mos