John Matthew Wilcoxson
Working towards a career in physics.
Working towards a career in physics.
I have more than nine years experience in the software industry, working on many technologies across different operating systems using many different languages.
RM provides schools, colleges and universities with software and hardware throughout the UK and abroad. RM employs about 2000 people worldwide.
My career at RM has given me the opportunity to work on a wide range of applications from on-line testing (i-nfer.com with ASP.NET and JavaScript ) to a 3D world (Easilearn with C#) to creating an open standard ("BECTA Interactive Whiteboard Format" in XML and SVG) to whole class teaching software ("Easiteach" in C and C++).
My job includes:
I have specified and designed software using Functional and Technical Specifications based on customer needs.
I like to keep up to date in the latest technologies and processes so I can make the right decision to complete a project and to solve technical difficulties if they occur.
I have taken control of development on various projects so that jobs can be divided up amongst the team and have kept track of current progress to achieve the goals.
I choose the most appropriate technique for the current challenge and write in the most efficient way to complete the assign task.
Softease produces a suite of software products designed for and used in the majority of schools across the UK. Their innovative products include Textease (C and C++), Podium (C#) and Honeycomb (C# and Flash). They employ about 20 people. My position at Softease was similar to the one I know hold at RM.
This part was similar to the one at RM but I also had the opportunity to mentor several people new to programming.
I've also been lucky enough to work in other areas such as the electrical stores Dixons and Currys where I had the opportunity to work as a sales assistant. But one of my favourite part time jobs was working at Gullivers Kingdom. This is a popular theme park and was an enjoyable way to improve my social skills.
Currently studying toward a second degree.
To enhance my career prospects in the space industry I am working towards an Astrophysics degree and I am currently on target for a 2:1. I have already gained enough credit for a diploma in "Physical Science" and certificates in both "Astronomy and Planetary Science" and "Mathematics". Some courses of note are "Observing the Universe", "Astronomy", "Planetary Science", and "The energetic Universe".
Here I received a 2:2 Bachelor of Science degree with honours. This degree covered AI from autonomous robots on Mars right through to genetic algorithms. It also included a wide area of computing, including object orientated programming, mathematics and user interaction.
My school years. A-Levels in Geography, General Studies, Maths and Physics; GCSEs in Design, English, French, Geography, Information Technology, Maths and Science.
I cycle to work as often as possible to remain healthy and to cut down on my carbon footprint. I also enjoy walking out in the countryside, swimming and badminton. I am also a keen cinema-goer.
I also enjoy learning new skills and I am currently in my second year learning to play the piano. Some other courses I have taken include "Fiction writing" and "Salsa dancing". I also plan to learn to draw and learn to speak a foreign language
One of my other hobbies is Astronomy. I own my own telescope and pray for clear skies on many nights. I am also a member of the local astronomy society and regularly attend the meetings and talks. I have also recently joined my local history society and plan to extend my family tree with their help.
When I have the time to sit down and relax I like to read science fiction or fantasy, or write short stories and let my mind wander.
I, of course, enjoy programming and generally creating things with my computer. I can usually pick up new programs and languages quickly.
I have good experience with C, C++, C#, Java, VB, PHP, CSS, JavaScript and SQL and am currently enjoying learning all about Python.
I also have a good working knowledge of both the Windows and Linux operating system, the software Visual Studio and Eclipse, and source control Subversion.
References are available on request.
I know basic first aid.
I'd like to learn to fly.
I have played the part of "Dick Whittington"