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Experience

Software Engineer II @ ServiceNow

June 2022 - January 2025
  • Formerly know as Lightstep - acquired by ServiceNow.
  • Spearheaded the development of innovative features in the Cloud Observability product, notably Notebooks, Change Intelligence, and Alerts, enhancing user experience and driving increased user engagement.
  • Facilitated cross-functional collaboration, ensuring cohesive product features that resonate with user needs and streamline their journey.
  • Managed multiple Jira projects from conception to completion, leading to timely product releases that consistently meet user expectations.
  • Upheld best practices in code quality, ensuring a stable, reliable, and high-performing product for users.

Education

CG Spectrum

2022 - Present | Online

Character Rigging

  • Character Rigging | 44 Weeks

    • 1:1 Mentor led customized course

Other Courses

  • Real-Time 3D Essentials | 12 Weeks
  • Introduction to 3D Modeling | 12 Weeks
  • Game Programming | 36 Weeks
  • Introduction to Game Programming | 12 Weeks

Certifications

CG Spectrum

April 06, 2024 | Online | Certificate
  • Real-Time 3D Essentials | 12 Weeks

    • How to use a wide range of Unreal Engine features
    • Basic animation and rigging skills
    • Working with motion capture
    • An overview of real-time and virtual production pipelines

Awards

IGDA Foundation Virtual Exchange

September - October 2023 | Online
  • Grantee of the IGDA Foundation Virtual Exchange Velocity Scholarship

About Me

Hello there! I'm Mikaela, but you can call me Kelly. I'm a self-taught frontend software engineer with a deep passion for video games. My journey into the world of gaming began with classics like Hexen and Doom during family LAN parties and the original Nintendo console.

As I reflect on titles like The Last of Us Part I & II, Horizon Zero Dawn, Horizon Forbidden West, the Zelda series, and the Halo series, it becomes clear why they are my top picks. It's all about the immersive experiences and alternate realities they offer.

The immersive stories draw me in, making me feel emotionally connected to the characters and their struggles. Intricate narratives keep me engaged, often leaving me pondering the game's events long after I've finished playing.

Moreover, the stunning graphics in these titles transport me to beautifully rendered worlds, adding a visual depth to the gaming experience that is truly awe-inspiring. It's not just about playing a game; it's about being part of a visually breathtaking universe.

The inclusion of strong female protagonists in some of these games is another aspect I admire. It's empowering to see women take on central roles, demonstrating their strength, resilience, and complexity. These characters serve as powerful role models and contribute to the richness of the storytelling.

Finally, the gameplay itself is a key factor in my love for these games. The mechanics are well-designed, offering a perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment, making every moment of gameplay an absolute joy.

After studying art and design at SJSU, I shifted gears into software engineering, specializing in frontend development. I'm a passionate explorer of new technologies and programming languages within the gaming industry and I firmly believe that there's always room for growth and learning in a developer's journey. I'm excited to keep delving into the world of video games, eagerly anticipating the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Currently, I'm expanding my horizons by delving into game development through courses in C++, Unreal Engine, 3D Modeling, Real-Time 3D, and Character Rigging at CG Spectrum.

Here are the technologies I've been working with recently:

  • Unreal Engine
  • C++
  • Maya
  • TypeScript
  • Python
  • Substance Painter
  • JavaScript
  • MotionBuilder
  • ReactJS
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