About Christa Cooke

Christa Cooke - Software Engineer

Hi! I'm Christa Cooke, a passionate and results-driven software engineer based in France. With expertise in React.js, Node.js, and AI integration, I specialize in building scalable, efficient digital solutions. My experience spans from bioinformatics research at Johns Hopkins APL to enterprise applications at Northrop Grumman, bringing a unique blend of technical expertise and innovative problem-solving to every project.

Education

Graduate Certificate in Environmental Science & Engineering

Johns Hopkins University

August 2024

B.S. Computer Science

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

May 2015

Professional Experience

I've worked with both cutting-edge startups and industry-leading organizations, building software that delivers real impact:

JHU Applied Physics Lab logo

Software Engineer

JHU Applied Physics Lab

May 2022 - Feb 2025 · 2 yrs 9 mos

During my time at APL, I made significant contributions across multiple domains: • Developed a website showcasing a machine learning model for predicting climate change tipping points, fine-tuning LLMs on climate research papers. Received prestigious internal REDDx award for this groundbreaking work. • Collaborated with researchers to develop bioinformatics pipelines using Flyte, Datajoint, and Kubernetes for large-scale neuroscience data analysis. • Created a Vue.js front-end application for the CDC, enabling interactive visualization of disease spread and pandemic tracking. • Sole developer of an NIH neuromodulation prize-winning Android app for improving spinal cord injury outcomes through epidural stimulation. • First author of a research paper on epidural stimulation, accepted at the IEEE-NER conference for neural engineering.
Read about Climate AI ProjectView Research PaperRead about Spinal Cord Project
Edume logo

Full Stack Engineer

Edume

April 2019 - Oct 2020 · 1 yr 6 mos

Key achievements at EduMe: • Developed corporate training and communication web app using ReactJS, Node.js, and PostgreSQL • Led implementation of secure login bypass for authorized users • Restructured database implementation to improve report download speeds up to 50% faster • Refactored the entire codebase to remove the dependency injection framework Bottle.js • Re-skinned web UI to reflect individual customer preferences • Collaborated on a team of 6 developers running six week sprints following Basecamp's shape-up project development practices • Documented several APIs and detailed instructions on accessing remote servers and navigating logged output with an intended technical audience
[24]7.ai logo

Full Stack Engineer

[24]7.ai

Sep 2017 - Oct 2018 · 1 yr 1 mo

Key achievements at [24]7.ai: • Engineered bot store using ReactJS, Node.js and MySQL to create a way for major corporate customers to demo products before purchase, and for engineers to download working models of customer wants • Designed and developed "conversation journey" for in-production voice bot using JavaScript, SCXML, and VXML, supporting bot release, generating $30 million in revenue • Developed chat and voice bot template with over 80% test code coverage with JavaScript, SCXML, and VXML, dramatically speeding up development cycle of future bots by 5X on average • Led tech talk with 40+ attendees on how to create omnichannel bot using newly developed architecture
Northrop Grumman logo

Software Engineer

Northrop Grumman

Jun 2015 - Sep 2017 · 2 yrs 3 mos

Key achievements at Northrop Grumman: • Built customized shift scheduling app using Java, Struts, JSP, JSTL, PL/SQL, Oracle, and JavaScript to replace manual system in order to support managers and improve velocity of floor workers • Collaborated with cross-team senior management to outline app specifications • Enhanced internal application dedicated to product parts and orders using C#, ASP.NET, and PL/SQL • Volunteered as social lead for recent graduate program

Technical Expertise

My technical skill set is built to deliver high-performance applications that drive business success.

  • Proficient: JavaScript, React.js, Node.js, Express, Java, Android, Llama/Hugging Face, GIT, SQL, PostgreSQL, jQuery, HTML5, CSS3, SASS, Python, Vue, CI/CD, REST API
  • Exposure: C++, C#, Unity, MongoDB, Ruby on Rails, Firebase, AWS, Heroku, TypeScript, Native, Webpack, Enzyme, Atlas, Markdown, Django, React Native

International Experience

With extensive experience across multiple tech hubs and international locations, I bring a diverse perspective to every project.

  • Languages: English (Native), French (CEFR A2)
  • Work Locations: Silicon Valley, London, Washington DC
  • International Experience: Lived in France while working as a freelance developer, with experience working across multiple time zones and cultural contexts

A Global Journey

From the innovation hubs of Silicon Valley to the historic streets of Europe, my journey has been shaped by diverse experiences and cultures.

🌉

Silicon Valley

The Innovation Epicenter

Where I first discovered the power of technology to transform ideas into reality. The energy of innovation and the pace of change shaped my approach to software development.

🇬🇧

London

Broadening Perspectives

Living in London broadened my perspectives and gave me a deep appreciation for European lifestyles. The city's rich history, diverse culture, and work-life balance taught me to value quality over speed.

🏛️

Washington DC

Where Tech Meets Impact

Working at Johns Hopkins APL, I discovered how technology can serve the greater good through climate science and healthcare innovation, where every line of code had purpose.

🇫🇷

Lille, France

La Vie en Code

Now calling Northern France home, I blend European elegance with American innovation. Here, I've found the perfect balance of work-life harmony and creative inspiration.

What This Journey Taught Me

🌍

Global Perspective

Understanding how technology serves different cultures and markets

🤝

Cultural Intelligence

Building products that resonate across diverse international audiences

💡

Innovation Mindset

Combining the best of Silicon Valley speed with European craftsmanship

Harp
Zurich Lake
Castle
Blue Lake

Let's Build Something Amazing

Whether you're looking for a freelance engineer to bring your vision to life, optimize an existing application, or develop a full-stack solution from the ground up, I'd love to help. Reach out via email at christadcooke@gmail.com or explore my latest work on GitHub. Let's create something impactful together!