A little about me
Hi, I’m Nikolas, a computer engineer, AI enthusiast, and researcher with a strong interest in solving real-world problems at the intersection of software and hardware. My journey has been shaped by a passion for full-stack development, embedded systems, and intelligent IoT solutions that make a difference.
With hands-on experience using tools such as Arduino Uno, NodeMCU ESP8266, BME680, MQ-series gas sensors, PMS5003, and 12V DC fans controlled via relays, I’ve designed and deployed systems that monitor air quality and trigger automated responses. My projects often integrate with platforms like ThingSpeak for data visualization, and include smart automation with occupancy detection using ultrasonic sensors.
On the software side, I work with React, Tailwind CSS, JavaScript/TypeScript, Node.js, and Firebase, alongside Python-based AI/ML experimentation using TensorFlow, Keras, and scikit-learn. These tools have empowered me to develop smart, scalable solutions — from interactive UIs to sensor-driven cloud applications.
In this portfolio, you’ll find a showcase of my projects, where I’ve applied AI and IoT to solve meaningful challenges, alongside insights gained through research and development. My goal is not only to deepen my understanding but to share my experiences with others who are equally passionate about innovation.
Whether you're here to explore my work, collaborate on transformative ideas, or simply connect over shared interests, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s build the future — one smart system at a time.
HOW I GOT HERE
My journey into computer engineering started with a deep curiosity about how things work — not just on the screen, but beneath it. From tinkering with electronics and microcontrollers to building web apps that solve everyday problems, I’ve always been drawn to both the physical and digital sides of technology.
As I explored the world of embedded systems, cloud computing, and full-stack development, I found myself fascinated by smart, sensor-driven systems that could make environments safer and more intelligent. That led me to build projects like my Air Quality Monitoring and Control Kit, where I combined hardware components like BME680, MQ gas sensors, PMS5003, relays, and NodeMCU ESP8266 to create a cloud-connected, real-time monitoring system using ThingSpeak.
But the pivotal moment that truly shifted my perspective happened during the Google I/O Startup School. There, I witnessed how powerful large language models — like OpenAI’s GPT, Anthropic’s Claude, and Google’s Gemini — were being used not just for conversational output, but to process real-time data from sensors and financial trading platforms. That experience opened my eyes to the possibilities of merging AI with hardware, allowing systems to make intelligent decisions based on real-world input. It changed everything for me.
Since then, I’ve been on a mission to explore the synergy between AI, IoT, and full-stack development — crafting solutions that are not only functional but truly adaptive and forward-thinking.
Each project, challenge, and breakthrough continues to push me closer to that goal.
Background and Education
Bachelor of Technology in Computer and Electronic Systems 2019 – 2025
During my undergraduate journey, I developed a strong foundation across both hardware and software domains — a dual focus that shaped my interdisciplinary approach to building intelligent systems. My academic interests spanned:
Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning – foundational models, real-world applications, and ethical implications of AI
Networking – communication protocols, network configuration, and system interconnectivity
Digital Electronics – circuit design, embedded systems, and sensor integration
Computer Programming – algorithmic problem-solving, object-oriented programming, and full-stack development
This comprehensive training equipped me to design and build solutions that bridge the gap between intelligent software and responsive hardware.
Certifications & Specialized Learning
Google Generative AI Course 2024
Explored state-of-the-art advancements in generative AI models including LLMs and their integration into real-world applications such as sensor data processing and smart automation.
Cisco Networking Academy 2023
Gained hands-on experience in configuring, securing, and managing networks — from basic topology to advanced routing and switching.
Career Beginnings
📊 Data Analyst Intern – Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) 2022
I started my career as a Data Analyst Intern at IEBC, where I contributed to the processing and analysis of electoral data. My focus was on ensuring data integrity, supporting transparency, and delivering insights for informed decision-making. It was here that I developed a strong foundation in data handling, reporting, and statistical accuracy within high-stakes environments.
📈 Junior Data Analyst – Oasis Outsourcing 2023
At Oasis Outsourcing, I transitioned into a role that emphasized data visualization, trend analysis, and creating dashboard-driven solutions. I worked on transforming raw data into actionable insights that informed strategic decisions across teams. This experience sharpened my ability to work with large datasets and helped me understand the real-world value of turning information into innovation.
🔧 Electronic Technician Apprentice – Thika Computer Consultants 2023 – 2024
While deepening my software and data skills, I also immersed myself in hands-on hardware work. As an apprentice at Thika Computer Consultants, I engaged in troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining electronic systems. I gained practical experience in hardware diagnostics, PCB repair, and system-level optimization. Collaborating with engineering teams on real repair tasks nurtured my passion for building hardware-integrated smart systems.
Continued Success
As I continue to grow in the tech industry, my focus remains on building solutions where AI, full-stack systems, and hardware converge to solve real-world challenges. I envision a future where artificial intelligence is not a replacement, but a powerful ally — enhancing our human potential rather than competing with it.
From automating routine processes to interpreting complex sensor data, I believe AI holds the key to making our environments smarter and our decisions sharper. My commitment is to harness these technologies to develop systems that are not only innovative but also intuitive, sustainable, and impactful.
Whether through future collaborations, advanced research, or entrepreneurial ventures, I aim to keep learning, pushing boundaries, and building technology that empowers people — one smart system at a time.
Snapshot
A quick glance at some of my featured works
2023 - 2024: AQI Monitoring Kit. I developed an IoT-enabled AQI monitoring kit to track environmental air quality in real time. By integrating sensors and leveraging machine learning, the system provided accurate predictions and actionable insights, improving decision-making in controlled environments such as hospitals and research labs.
2022 - 2023: Conversant Garage Chatbot. I built a chatbot designed to assist customers in a vehicle garage, hosted on WordPress for seamless integration with the existing website. This project focused on delivering real-time support for booking appointments, answering queries, and offering service recommendations, enhancing customer interaction and satisfaction.
2024 - 2025: Llama 3.2 Integration. Currently, I am working on integrating Llama 3.2 into advanced conversational systems. This involves optimizing the model for context-aware interactions and improving its adaptability in dynamic scenarios, paving the way for innovative applications in personalized AI assistance.