Described by colleagues as "An Engineer's Engineer," Derek's passion for programming ignited at age 12 and has been unwavering ever since. Beyond focusing on simplicity when crafting solutions and applying design patterns, SOLID principles, and XP practices, his commitment to foundational values shapes Derek's dedication to top-tier software engineering, automated testing, and fostering cohesive teams. His aim? To inspire innovation and drive impactful product creation through his engineering endeavors and the teams he cultivates.

Despite being American, Derek embarked on a transformative journey that led him to Japan, where he spent nearly 15 years leveraging his programming prowess and honing his Japanese language skills. Beyond code, he's a seasoned drummer, nurtures his physical well-being through strength training and cycling, delves into audiobooks and podcasts for mental enrichment, and cherishes his newest role as a father.