Welcome to my inaugural Quarto post! Though this marks my official entry into the Quarto blogging sphere, it isn’t my first dive into writing here. I initially crafted an insightful(?) post about the Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise (DBSCAN), a fascinating clustering algorithm that piqued my interest due to its rigorous yet intuitive approach to handling complex data sets.
My name is Jesse Anderson, and my academic and professional journey began in the world of chemical engineering, where I specialized in biochemical engineering and process automation. The intricate dance of chemical processes, moving systematically from one unit to another, serendipitously mirrored the logic and flow of computer science. It was this realization that bridged my transition from engineering physical processes to engineering digital ones.
This transition felt incredibly natural. In both domains, you’re essentially inputting a series of commands—whether to a machine in a lab or a line of code in a software program—and watching as complex processes unfold, often with a satisfying precision. This similarity is what drew me deeper into the world of computing, leading me to pursue a Master’s in Computer Science at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC). My undergraduate studies were completed at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering.
During my time at UIC, my fascination with optimization and automation took root. This passion wasn’t confined to coursework and theory. I actively engaged in developing research software, working closely with Dr. Ying Hu. My contributions during this period were not only fulfilling but also fruitful, culminating in several scholarly publications.
Outside of academia, my hobbies closely mirror my professional interests, intertwining a love for optimization with a hands-on approach to problem-solving that spans far beyond algorithms and lab reactors. This passion for efficiency and process improvement extends into crafting tools and scripts that enhance productivity and automate the more mundane tasks of everyday life. But my knack for tool-making isn’t just confined to the digital realm; it’s a skill I’ve honed over many years, influenced heavily by my extensive background as an independent contractor.
Before venturing into the world of chemical engineering and computer science, I spent several years in the trades, tackling every aspect of plumbing, electrical work, HVAC, carpentry, and remodeling. This experience taught me the value of precision and strategic planning, skills that are just as applicable to programming as they are to physical construction and maintenance. Each project, whether installing a complex plumbing system or wiring a newly constructed home, sharpened my ability to think critically and adapt quickly—traits that have proven indispensable throughout my career.
In addition to my hands-on trade work, I managed the safety and project planning operations at G5 Environmental, a prominent street sweeping company based in Chicago. My role involved ensuring the smooth execution of projects, maintaining rigorous safety standards, and optimizing operations to enhance efficiency. This experience not only broadened my understanding of large-scale project management but also deepened my appreciation for the intricate dance between man, machine, and the environment. At G5 Environmental, we were committed to maintaining the cleanliness and safety of public spaces, a mission that echoes my current work’s focus on sustainability and environmental preservation through technology.
More recently, during my tenure at UL Solutions, I further developed my technical skills and applied them to real-world challenges:
Automation Software Development: I developed automation software in Python and VBA that successfully eliminated over 664+ hours on average of tedious engineering workflows annually.
CAD/PDF Change Detection: I developed a few python scripts to automatically compare CAD files and compare long PDFs(like Acrobat Pro, but free and simpler).
Real-Time Data Analysis for Testing: I implemented systems for real-time data analysis to support large-scale testing projects. This advancement has enabled more data-driven decision-making, optimizing testing procedures and outcomes through immediate feedback and analysis.
While I massively enjoyed the automation projects I took on at UL, I was seeking broader challenges and opportunities for growth that UL could no longer provide. This realization led me to pursue a more fitting opportunity elsewhere, where I could further expand my expertise and impact in the fields of process automation and data-driven technology.
This diverse background has equipped me with a unique perspective that I bring to my current studies and research. Whether refining code to streamline data processing or rethinking a workflow to enhance laboratory operations, I am constantly learning and applying, pushing the boundaries of what I know about both chemical engineering and computer science. These experiences have molded me into a versatile professional capable of adapting to various roles and continuously refining my approach to both new and familiar challenges.
As I continue my studies at UIUC, my goal is to further explore how advanced computational techniques can be applied to solve complex problems in biochemical engineering and beyond. The integration of process automation into digital applications opens up exciting possibilities for innovation in both fields. Through this blog, I aim to share insights from my journey, discussing both the theoretical and practical aspects of my work and studies in hopes of connecting with fellow enthusiasts and professionals who share my zeal for optimization and automation.
Stay tuned for more posts where I’ll delve deeper into specific projects, challenges I’ve faced, and solutions I’ve discovered along the way. Thank you for joining me on this adventure in merging the systematic worlds of engineering and computing into one coherent, intertwined narrative.