tom@birmtech:~$ cat about.txt
About Tom Birmingham
I am a software engineer focused on building secure, useful systems that solve real operational problems. My path has not been perfectly linear, but it has always centered on technology, curiosity, and hands-on problem solving.
Early Hacker Roots
My first hack was building a LEGO button-presser to automate slot spins in Pokemon Blue on Game Boy. A few years later, modding the original Xbox dropped me into IRC channels, homebrew software, Linux installs, FTP workflows, and hardware mods.
Professional Journey
I started in Software QA, then expanded into software engineering roles in local manufacturing, aerospace, and defense, where I have gathered experience in project leadership, and product-minded delivery. I have built industrial IoT systems, including real-time edge data collection using cellular-connected devices, cloud pipelines in Azure, and Power BI dashboards for live operational visibility.
Current Work
Today, I work at Lockheed Martin on aircraft data collection systems that support predictive maintenance and better decision quality. I focus on robust implementation under security and compliance constraints, including STIG-aligned hardening, ACAS scan readiness, and DADMS-aware engineering.
Education and Research
- B.S. in Computer Science, Southern Connecticut State University (Academic Excellence in Computer Science)
- M.S. in Computer Science, Southern Connecticut State University
- Thesis research on age group detection using touchscreen gestures and feature-level fusion for machine learning classification
Thesis publication: ProQuest
Now Learning
I am continuing lifelong education through Unix, C programming, ELF reversing, cryptography, and Capture the Flag events. Local BSidesCT events helped reignite this security-focused chapter of my journey. See more from BSidesCT here: http://www.BSidesCT.org/
Outside of Engineering
I enjoy working on cars, skateboarding, hiking, trying new restaurants, and playing games with my girlfriend, Kelly. We have a gray tuxedo cat named Max, who has a bad attitude and zero self-doubt.
Work With Me
If you need help with a technical project, consulting, or system design, reach out at tom@birmtech.com.