Portfolio
My name is Patrick Thurmond, I work as a PHP developer for PlattForm Advertising. I have a vast array of knowledge and skills. My background includes PHP, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, limited exposure to Java and Ruby, C++, as well as some minor design work including cutting templates from PSD files, modifying and creating new visual elements.
My experience is not limited to web development and design. I spent more than 7 years doing some kind of phone-based technical support for H & R Block, Gateway Computers, and Applebee’s International. I have a Bachelors Degree in Computer Science with an emphasis in Networking. I also have an Associates Degree in Computer Science with emphasis in Networking. I spent two years learning computer repair and networking at Herndon Career Center while in High School and passed with high marks.
Humble Beginnings
What brought me into electronics and computers can be traced back to one interesting experience early on in life. My father used to buy me the ATARI gaming system. Since they were already old when I was using them they often stopped working. At some point when I was in second or third grade I had built up a pile of five ATARIs in the corner of my bedroom. I got curious, grabbed a screwdriver, and took all of them apart. With the parts scattered all over the floor I began inspecting everything and I noticed that a lot of the parts were dusty and some even looked blackened or dark brown.
I had heard various things about electronics and their care growing up and so I grabbed a bottle of rubbing alcohol along with q-tips and started cleaning all the parts. After I was satisfied that everything was clean I then started mixing and matching parts that didn’t look blackened or browned, putting together 3 consoles that had clean parts and what I considered good looking parts. I finally put everything back together and lo and behold I managed to get three of the consoles working. I was hooked.
This kind of electronics work continued with Nintendo game systems, both mine and those owned by my friends, and then to my computers. My first computer was a Compaq Presario 486DX running Windows 3.1. I promptly broke Windows when I tried to install a new Windows shell that I downloaded on my Dad’s Windows 95 computer over AOL. I spent two years learning DOS since I could not get Windows to launch until I finally figured out how I messed up the system.ini file and managed to fix it. I had to learn the hard way, but it taught me a lot and only spurred more passion for computers.
Learning Evolved
Since then I have learned how to work in all versions of Windows 95 through Windows 7, in Mac OS (8, 9, and 10), and finally in multiple flavors of Linux (currently sporting Ubuntu on my laptop). I love trying out new wares and learning new things. This has helped me keep up with technology and grow as a professional. I take my work seriously and adhere to a strong ethical principal. I have been known to refuse to do work that I thought was illegal or would put private data at considerable risk.
Recently I have started learning more and more about SEO and Social Marketing and have been experimenting with various tactics on one of my blogs and on my father’s business website. I am still learning, but I am learning fast. I have experience with multiple content management systems including WordPress, Drupal, Magento, and Open Cart.
Please take the time to look through my website and at the work that I have done. This website includes sample code that you are welcome to utilize yourself free of charge. All I ask is that you give me credit for the work in your code and link back to this website.
Click Here To Read More About The Websites That I Have Worked On!