I am a Senior Front-End Developer. I write JavaScript, HTML and CSS to bring clients’ visions to life as Web applications. I work closely with a team of experts to ensure we work to best practices and deliver on the clients’ goals.
Connecting the Department for Transport to smarter tools
I have been working with the Department for Transport (DfT), helping to shape their Connectivity Tool (CPT). It’s a great example of how agile, focused development can align powerful tools to precise user needs.
My role involves building features, solving challenges, and iterating with feedback to deliver a great user experience.
I work with an expert team comprising a Delivery Manager, UX Designer, Quality Assurance tester, and another Front-End Developer. Together, we have crafted a TypeScript-powered front end that has delighted the DfT.
I’ve also contributed to the Renewable Transport Fuels Obligation (RTFO) application in a support capacity, bringing my front-end expertise wherever needed to ensure the user interface remains efficient, accessible, and future-proof.
Why I love what I do
My Dad encouraged me to code when I was a child. I continued to do it as a hobby until I started my career as a Civil Servant. Then, I was lucky enough to get involved in some of the products that the Ministry of Defence was working on. I had the opportunity to develop with jQuery and ReactJS. And that was that!
For me, front-end development is like solving puzzles with evolving tools. Each feature or bug is a problem to be cracked, and each language or framework offers a unique approach. There’s something deeply satisfying about seeing a solution unfold, especially when that solution ends in a happy client and a better product.
There are challenges, too. Every framework has its quirks. What works effortlessly in one environment can behave completely differently in another, often sending you down a rabbit hole of debugging. While that can be frustrating, it is a valuable learning opportunity because it deepens your knowledge of how each framework operates. It’s rewarding too.
My learning philosophy is simple
The best way I’ve found to develop myself is by jumping into the deep end, taking on challenges that push me outside my comfort zone, and learning as I go. I believe in hands-on experience supported by focused research. It helps if you have a genuine interest in the subject—it makes continuous learning outside of the project fun.
The Triad support system
At Triad, one of the most valuable support mechanisms is the strong network of colleagues with expertise across various technical disciplines. Everyone is approachable, collaborative, and genuinely willing to help, whether offering guidance on a specific challenge, sharing best practices, or simply being a sounding board for ideas.
What I’ve learned
If I could go back and talk to myself at the start of my development journey, I’d offer two key pieces of advice:
- Master the basics. Get confident with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript before diving into the latest frameworks. These are the foundations on which everything else is built.
- Write clean code. Prioritise clarity, consistency, and maintainability. In the future, you—and everyone else working on your projects—will thank you for it.
Front-end development continues to evolve, and every project is a chance to improve—technically and creatively. At Triad, I’ve found a place where I can grow, be challenged, and deliver work I’m proud of, all while being supported by a collaborative, expert team.
If you have a question for Mike or the Triad team, please get in touch.
