Bringing a Different Perspective

Full-Stack
Machine Learning Engineer

I combine analytical thinking from my military and operations background with technical skills to build machine learning solutions that actually solve real problems.

My Journey Into Data Science

Why Data Science & Machine Learning

After 10 years in military operations and program management, I found that my analytical mindset translated naturally to data science and machine learning.

Pattern Recognition
Analytics Across Domains

Transferring analytical skills across domains

Throughout my career, I've analyzed complex data patterns to drive decisions. This experience taught me how pattern recognition transcends specific domains and reveals insights that lead to better outcomes.

While serving as a program manager in the US Army, I implemented a tracking system that improved equipment readiness by over 40% by identifying maintenance patterns and prioritizing critical assets worth over $5M.
Data Analysis
Resource Optimization
Systems Thinking
Strategic Thinking
From Data to Decisions

Connecting analytics to business impact

Throughout my career, the most valuable skill I've developed is translating data into actionable strategies. The gap between analysis and execution is where many organizations struggle. My background in operations gives me a practical perspective on implementing analytical insights.

As a strategic business partner to CIO and VP-level IT leaders, I developed an enterprise-wide IT strategy for a financial services client that drove business value through application rationalization, resulting in elimination of 15% of excess applications.
IT Strategy
Business Partnership
Application Rationalization
Technical Development
Building Technical Expertise

Acquiring the tools to implement my vision

Learning Python and machine learning has transformed my analytical capabilities. Now I build end-to-end solutions that not only identify opportunities but implement them through intelligent algorithms and data-driven applications.

After identifying an opportunity for cloud migration through discussions with tactical-level clients, I developed a comprehensive business case and migration roadmap that secured stakeholder buy-in for future execution.
Cloud Migration
Solution Architecture
Stakeholder Management
My Evolution: Military → Consulting → Tech

I bring a unique perspective to data science projects by combining leadership experience, strategic thinking, and technical implementation capabilities.

Learn More About My Journey

Technical Stack

Technologies I Work With

The modern tools and frameworks I use to build machine learning solutions and applications.

Next.js Logo
Next.js Logo
Tailwind CSS Logo
Tailwind CSS Logo
Python Logo
Python Logo
PyTorch Logo
PyTorch Logo
TensorFlow Logo
TensorFlow Logo
Scikit-learn Logo
Scikit-learn Logo

Systems Thinking in ML

Beyond Algorithms: My Approach to Machine Learning

In my experience, successful ML projects aren't just about model accuracy—they're about understanding the entire business process first, then determining how ML can improve it.

While many ML practitioners focus solely on model accuracy, I evaluate solutions through their impact on entire systems. This perspective ensures that ML implementations don't just perform well technically but create lasting business value through thoughtful integration.

Connecting technical solutions with business processes

Considering the human side of AI implementation

Three principles guide my work:

1. Business-first thinking

Understanding the entire process before applying technology

2. Systems perspective

Considering how ML solutions affect interconnected workflows and stakeholders

3. Implementation focus

Designing for successful adoption, not just technical performance

Project Showcase

Featured Projects

Here are a couple of projects where I've applied my approach to real technical challenges.

Vision Transformer for Image Classification
Featured

Implementation of a Vision Transformer (ViT) model that achieves 94% accuracy on image classification tasks while reducing inference time by 40% compared to traditional approaches, making it suitable for real-time applications.

Python
PyTorch
Hugging Face
+1
NLP Sentiment Analysis with Transformers
Featured

A production-ready NLP system that analyzes customer feedback with 92% accuracy across multiple domains, enabling businesses to identify emerging issues and opportunities in real-time.

Python
PyTorch
Transformers
+2

Technical Expertise

Skills & Services

My unusual path into ML engineering gives me a different perspective on technical challenges. Here's how I can help turn data problems into practical solutions.

Machine Learning & AI
Development of custom machine learning models with a focus on practical applications and optimization.
  • Computer Vision & NLP Applications
  • Recommendation Systems
  • Transfer Learning Implementation
  • Model Optimization & Deployment
Software & Web Development
Full-stack development combining clean code practices with modern frameworks and infrastructure.
  • Next.js & React Applications
  • API & Database Design
  • Python & JavaScript Development
  • CI/CD & Cloud Deployment
Technical Education
Creation of learning materials, tutorials, and educational content for tech and machine learning.
  • Interactive Learning Paths
  • Technical Blog Articles
  • Code Walkthrough Tutorials
  • Practical Project Guidance

Work Philosophy

How I Think and Work

I'm a curious explorer at heart, always on the lookout for hidden opportunities in unexpected places. Here's a glimpse into my approach:

Knowledge Multiplier

I share insights freely, believing that collective growth benefits everyone in the tech ecosystem.

Connecting the Dots

By drawing insights from various sectors, I find fresh solutions to old problems.

Always Learning

My curiosity keeps me on my toes, constantly exploring new trends and technologies.

Data Detective

I use data to uncover hidden patterns and opportunities, guiding smarter decisions.

Flexible Thinking

I adapt quickly to new information, tweaking strategies on the fly to stay ahead.

Tech for Good

I seek out opportunities that are not just innovative, but also make a positive impact.

Building Bridges

I believe in creating connections, fostering a community where we can innovate together.

Problem Solver

I tackle both big-picture and day-to-day challenges, crafting practical solutions.

Professional Endorsements

What People Say

Perspective from people I've worked with over the years.

  • Derek B.

    Commander at US Army

    "Dustin is a highly driven, intelligent, morally principled, leader of peers. He delivers candid feedback, with insightful and comprehensive analysis. He communicates complex problems clearly and can serve as the face and lead of any project or organization."

  • Ben B.

    VP at Pernod Ricard

    "Dustin is the rare blend of high 30,000 ft. conceptual visionary meets tactical execution and on time if not early deliverables. It is without question I would recommend Dustin for any company considering him and believe/know he will be an immediate, near, and long term asset to those lucky enough to have Dustin as a teammate and colleague. "

Say Hello

Interested in Working Together or Collaboration?

Have a technical challenge you're working through? Or just want to connect with someone who's passionate about combining data science with practical business applications? I'd enjoy hearing from you.