Introduction
Hello, I’m Joel Southall, a recent graduate from Lane Community College with an AAS in Software Development, specializing in front-end development, database management, and user-centered design. With experience in building responsive web applications and working with various technologies, including WordPress, JavaScript, and React, I bring a strong foundation in web development and design. My hands-on experience with custom web solutions, as well as my background in journalism and graphic design, gives me a unique skill set for crafting engaging digital experiences. I’m excited to contribute my expertise to a mission-driven team focused on innovation and growth.
Education
- AAS in Software Development
- Lane Community College, Springfield, OR | June 2024
- Relevant Coursework: Full-Stack Web Development, Systems Analysis, Software Development
- Lifecycle, Front-End Development with React
- CPC in Database Specialist
- Lane Community College, Springfield, OR | June 2024
- Skills Learned: Data management principles, SQL queries, database structures
- Certificate in Web Design Media Arts
- Lane Community College, Springfield, OR | June 2022
- Skills Learned: Visual design, responsive web layouts, user experience principles
- Certificate in Front-End Web Development
- Lane Community College, Springfield, OR | June 2023
- Skills Learned: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and responsive interface development with React
- MA in Philosophy
- University of Oregon, Eugene, OR | June 2015
- Skills Learned: Critical thinking and structured analysis
Professional Experience
Software Development Intern
Native Teaching Aids | Remote | April 2024 – June 2024
● Developed a React Native mobile application focused on Indigenous language learning,
supporting educational initiatives.
● Designed an intuitive interface with interactive features, collaborating with project managers to
align with user needs and goals.
Freelance Web and Graphic Designer
Remote | 2022 – Present
● Developed custom websites and branding materials for small businesses, with a focus on user
experience, responsive design, and SEO.
● Created logos, banners, and digital graphics using Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Gimp to
meet diverse client needs.
● Collaborated with clients to ensure alignment with branding and business goals, delivering
websites on WordPress for easy client management.
Web Design Intern
Brent & Jo Studio | Remote | June 2022 – July 2022
● Designed and developed custom Squarespace websites for small businesses, focusing on user
experience, brand identity, and SEO optimization.
● Collaborated with the lead designer to ensure the final product met usability and branding
objectives.
Freelance Journalist
Corvallis Independent and Corvallis Advocate | Corvallis, OR | 2012 – 2016
● Wrote articles on local arts and culture, developing storytelling, interviewing, and research skills
that contribute to clear and engaging documentation in technical roles.
Volunteer Experience
Native American Student Association – Volunteer Coordinator
Lane Community College, Springfield, OR | June 2021 – June 2024
● Supported event coordination and organizational activities for three consecutive years, including
outreach and engagement efforts
● Collaborated with faculty and staff to support community-driven initiatives and increase
awareness of Indigenous issues on campus
Projects
Let’s Move Fitness Studio Web Application
● Developed a full-stack web application using C# and ASP.NET Core MVC for class scheduling,
user registration, and payment processing.
● Integrated MySQL for database management and built a responsive interface using HTML, CSS,
and Bootstrap.
● Employed nUnit testing for code reliability, contributing to quality assurance and error reduction.
NAACM – Native American Arts & Crafts Market
Collaborative Project | Summer 2023
● Designed a multi-page website with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Bootstrap for the Native American Arts & Crafts Market.
● Implemented interactive features like image galleries and a responsive carousel, improving user engagement and site performance.
TribeFinder Web & Mobile Applications
Community College Project | Fall 2023 & Winter 2024
● Created a web application to help users locate nearby Native American Tribal offices, leveraging the Google Maps API and React for responsive design.
● Developed a mobile version using React Native, ensuring cross-platform compatibility and seamless user experience.
Technical Proficiency
● Backend: Proficient in backend development with C# and JavaScript, including API integration
and database management
● Frontend: Skilled in responsive design and dynamic user interfaces using React
● Cloud and Deployment: Familiar with Firebase for app backend support, exploring AWS and
Google Cloud
● Documentation: Experience in creating technical documentation for clear, maintainable code and
user guides