At Discovery Design, I created a website for a recruitment company using Wordpress CMS, Custom Post Types, Vue Components and custom Gravity Forms. Overcoming challenges, I successfully implemented...
Robert Howdle
Developer
My Favourite Projects
I have had the pleasure of working on some fantastic projects during my career and I have listed some of my favourites below. Some of my projects were created during employment with various companies therefore I have linked to the companies website to get a full overview of the project. I would like to thank my previous companies for allowing me to share this work on my website.
About Me
Technology in general has always fascinated me. I can always be found brainstorming new ideas, reading up on the latest tech news or devising solutions to solve common problems. After building my first website around the age of 8 using nothing but Notepad, I found everything about programming interesting. The fact that it is ever changing made it even more fun to pursue. My ultimate goal is to become a truly bespoke Full Stack Developer, someone who can jump into any project head-on without being hindered by a lack of general knowledge, absence of experience with different programming languages, or an inability to understand what a client wants, even when they may not have a clear idea themselves.
This industry can be frustrating and difficult at times, but out of all the jobs I have ever had, I have experienced no greater satisfaction than when I am presented with a challenging task, working through the problem and ultimately finding a solution that meets the clients needs and and brings them happiness especially when it would be easier to find shortcuts.
Things to know...
- Age: 29
- Years in the Industry: 6
- Town: Bishop Auckland, UK
- Ability to drive: Yes, with my own car
- Hobbies: Building and Crafts, Music, Nature Walks, Mechanics, Photography, Late Night Drives
This industry can be frustrating and difficult at times, but out of all the jobs I have ever had, I have experienced no greater satisfaction than when I am presented with a challenging task, working through the problem and ultimately finding a solution that meets the clients needs and and brings them happiness especially when it would be easier to find shortcuts.
Things to know...
- Age: 29
- Years in the Industry: 6
- Town: Bishop Auckland, UK
- Ability to drive: Yes, with my own car
- Hobbies: Building and Crafts, Music, Nature Walks, Mechanics, Photography, Late Night Drives
Portfolio
I consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to collaborate with wonderful clients throughout my career. Over the years, I have engaged in diverse projects, encompassing the development of Content Management Systems for businesses and gymnastics clubs, the create of brochure websites for both new and established businesses, and the creation of e-commerce websites. In addition to client projects, I enjoy dedicating my personal time to working on endeavours for various communities I am part of, as well as pursuing random project ideas that spark my interest. I also enjoy actively participating in Developer Discord Servers, where I provide assistance to fellow developers, offering valuable suggestions and provide reviews on people’s projects.
Printed Parts Checklist
I developed a personal Laravel project that enables users from my Droid Building Community to create customised checklists for tracking their progress in building a robot. With numerous parts...
Artoo Discord Bot
I contributed to the development of a custom Discord Server Bot called Artoo. Built using JavaScript, this bot offers a range of features that are both useful to users and provide some entertaining...
Studious Eureka
I am currently working on an ongoing project using Laravel and Vue 3. This platform enables musicians to search, advertise and connect with other musicians nationwide who are looking for bands, band...
Victoria Hotel
At Discovery Design, I constructed a website for a client using the Wordpress CMS and Custom Post Types, with a strong emphasis on achieving an elegant look and seamless functionality. This project...
Droid Builder Wiki
I developed an information wiki specifically designed for the Droid Builder Community. This wiki serves as a centralised hub, compiling extensive information on droid building and making it easily...
Kane Decorators
During my tenure at Discovery Design, I developed this website that effectively reflects the essence of the company. Unlike standard brochure websites, this project went beyond technical...
JRB Charted Surveyors
While working on this website project at Discovery Design, I encountered a few changes, which led me to discover and utilise Gravity Forms. Built within the Wordpress CMS and incorporating Custom...
Vanfit Solutions
During my tenure at Discovery Design, I developed another website that utilises the Wordpress CMS and incorporates Woocommerce. This particular project involved a client who desired both standard...
Paradise School, Goa
Working on the Paradise School project at Discovery Design was a highly enjoyable experience. The project demanded a balance between a fun and professional design, allowing me the creative freedom to...
Outside of Work
When I’m not at work, I enjoy keeping busy. I have a strong passion for learning new things, which drives me to make the most of my time. I actively engage in various communities, both online and offline, and embrace spontaneity. Through these activities and communities, I have accomplished several achievements that I take great pride in.
Droid Building
In 2011, I stumbled upon the Droid Building Community, a global gathering of Star Wars fans who collaborate to construct replica droids from the Star Wars Universe. Given my preexisting fascination electronics, building and a deep love for Star Wars, I embarked on my journey within this community. Over time, I have contributed to its growth by developing online tools like a Parts Checklist and Instruction Guides aiding new builders in finding their footing within the vast community. Additionally, I established a dedicated Discord Server and organised round-the-clock Zoom calls during the pandemic.
Music
I have been involved in music since a very young age, playing a variety of instruments including guitar, drums and bass. Over the years, I have been part of several bands. primarily focusing on the Rock/ Metal genres, however I draw inspiration from a diverse range of musical styles when creating my own compositions. My musical journey has taken me to various recording studios, where I have had the opportunity to record. Additionally, I have performed at notable venues like The Forum Music Center in Darlington and the O2 Academy in Birmingham which were unforgettable experiences. My bands have also garnered radio airplay, achieved finalist places within local talent shows and produced music videos. I am in the process of recording my first solo album, which comprises entirely of original songs.
Personal Projects
I have a passion for expanding my knowledge both within and outside of work. I enjoy engaging in diverse creative projects, ranging from craft endeavours to coding ventures. For instance, I have turned a 3D printed model of a prop from the TV show ‘Supernatural’ and creating a custom case comprising of a hand carved base covered in velvet as well as stained wood and hand burnt symbols unique to the show. In terms of coding projects, I encountered challenges in the past when searching for suitable band members. While numerous musician finder websites exist, I took it upon myself to create my own solution. I am developing a forum-style application that allows individuals or bands to advertise their musical needs or offerings, incorporating paid subscription tiers for enhanced functionality and features.
Charity Work
I derive great satisfaction from helping those less fortunate than myself. Over the years, I have organised numerous charity events with the help of various communities I belong to, as well as through my music. All the money raised during these goes went directly to the intended causes. One notable instance occurred in December 2018 when a family close to my childhood neighbourhood experienced a devastating house fire. Tragically, one of their young children lost their life, and the family lost not only the child but all of their possessions. Wanting to lend a hand, I hastily organise a benefit concert, reaching out to as many bands as possible. The atmosphere on the night was indescribable as musicians from diverse backgrounds came together with a single goal: to raise as much money as possible to help this family. Despite the event taking place days before Christmas, we managed to collect over £400, which was remarkable. Alongside Father Christmas and his elves, I personally visited the family to deliver the funds, accompanied by a collection of gifts generously donated by the community. Whilst I know that nothing can fully heal the wounds caused by these tragic events, the knowledge that I played a part in bringing some relief and happiness to these individuals, even if only momentarily, makes it all worthwhile.
Exploring
The COVID-19 pandemic sparked a newfound appreciate for the outdoors within me. Whenever the opportunity arises, I cherish the chance to venture outside and immerse myself in nature. The solace I find amidst the trees, hill, historical sites and the wonders of the natural world provide respite from a life intertwined with technology. Whether embarking on late-night drives, day trips or embarking on spontaneous journeys to uncharted destinations on the map, I am captivated by the allure of the great outdoors.The act of venturing out and exploring the world holds immense therapeutic value for me. It allows me to unwind, clear my mind, connect with nature and discover the boundless wonders that our planet has to offer which are often overlooked by so many.
