David Newcomer Email & Phone Number

As a Technical Lead and Project Manager with over 15 years in software engineering, I drive complex projects focused on leveraging cutting-edge AI technologies to solve real-world challenges. I currently lead two major initiatives:Data Curation and Retrieval System: This project utilizes Elasticsearch, MinIO, and Redis to enable efficient storage and retrieval of image and video datasets, facilitating downstream evaluation and algorithm development. Our work enhances accessibility and scalability for teams handling large multimedia datasets.GAI LLM Testing and Evaluation: In this effort, we rigorously test and evaluate generative AI models to align specific LLMs with diverse applied use cases, ensuring each model is matched to sponsor needs and real-world applications.Additionally, as the Project Manager of a unique fine-tuning project, I guide the process of training an LLM in a specialized language, enabling nuanced understanding and performance for specific linguistic and technical requirements.Passionate about building scalable AI solutions, I combine hands-on technical knowledge with strategic oversight to advance impactful applications of AI and machine learning.

Laurel, Maryland, United States

As a section supervisor, I am still a full-time software developer and contribute to most projects as both a software developer and a leader. Since being promoted to section supervisor, I have hired five software engineers for my group. Three of them entered my section and I coordinated with program management to identify tasking for them. I meet with each of my section members one-to-two times per month to review their work progress, assist them with anything they may be struggling with, and otherwise stay up-to-date with upcoming task milestones. I also coordinate and run a monthly meeting for the entire section, where we review our accomplishments, discuss topics of interest, and make sure all the newer staff members are familiar with the goings-on of the lab. I also review and approve staff timecards, conduct formal performance coaching sessions with my staff members, review and edit my staff’s annual RoA (Record of Accomplishments), and submit paperwork necessary for staff recognition and promotions.

I primarily develop software to support Modeling, Simulation, and Analysis (MS&A) for missile defense applications. I have supported many different software efforts during my time working at APL, and used a variety of software languages, libraries, and development techniques. Two projects I've contributed to are summarized here:Electronic Warfare Systems Technical Lead:I was the Technical Lead for the development of medium fidelity representations of key Surface Electronic Warfare systems. I scoped and prioritized tasks for the team, and I met regularly with program management to communicate the team’s progress, milestones, and accomplishments. Under my management, the team completed implementation of several critical components, and made significant strides towards executing a V&V plan needed for subsequent EW Studies.Cannotate: A Genomic Analysis Framework:Cannotate is an open-source software tool I designed for storing and analyzing large-scale genomic data. This project began in 2012 as a collaboration between JHU APL and Johns Hopkins Genomics (JHG). Cannotate enables researchers to ask new population-level questions and unites genomics data together with EHR (electronic health records). The Cannotate project is open-source, and available here: https://bitbucket.org/jhucidr/cannotate/wiki/Home. Cannotate handles and stores genomic data, and generates annotation reports. It also stores EHR (Electronic Health Record) data, so that questions can be asked based on health data and populations.Technical Skills:• Primary Software Development Languages: Java, Python, C++• Software Expertise: Scala, Swift, Ruby, MATLAB• Software Familiarity: Groovy, Perl, Clojure, Objective C, C#, HTML, CSS, bash, tcsh• Database Tools: MySQL, Accumulo, HBase, Oracle SQL, Microsoft SQL, Access, SQLite• Big Data Tools: Hadoop, Cloudera, Hortonworks, Accumulo, Avro, Zookeeper, Pig, Spark, HBase, NoSQL• Other Development Tools: Docker, Kubernetes, AFSIM

Johns Hopkins University

Write java software for the Center For Inherited Disease Research. We analyze human DNA, and determine which parts contribute to inherited diseases through quantitative analysis.I wrote a plugin framework for Sapio's Exemplar software suite, as well as many custom plugins.I helped develop in-house LIMS and sample-handling systems.I wrote a software tool that would generate an aggregate annotation report from a VCF file by running the VCF file against many standalone ANNOVAR database-flat-files, and aggregating together the results.I helped train new java developers.I helped develop and implement a sequencing analysis pipeline.

Train users how to use wide field and confocal microscopes.Act as the network and server administrator for the Integrated Imaging Center.

Interacted regularly with students, communicating or clarifying conceptual questions regarding theory and content.Provided one-on-one guidance to two sections of Physics 104, supporting the development of problem solving skills necessary to reach and understand each homework solution.

Used helpdesk application for inventory control and helpdesk issue managementProvided on-floor help with media equipment, film transfers, and poster makingUtilized analytical skills to provide on-the-spot assistance for technical questions called in.

Completed feasibility studies for lab experiments, estimating budget and completion schedulesAdapted and wrote population redistribution lab experiment for Gettysburg Optics Course. Interpreted existing lab and creatively adapted for available equipment.Presented the theoretical and experimental data from summer research as a Physics Colloquia. Effectively communicated complex concepts to students and professors.

Master'S Degree, Computer Software Engineering

COURSEWORK: 605.401: Foundations of Software Engineering 605.421: Foundations of Algorithms 605.411: Foundations of Computer Architecture.

Ba, Physics

Activities and Societies: Sigma Chi, Alpha Phi Omega, Gettysburg College Choir, Gettysburg Jazz EnsembleRELEVANT COURSEWORK Physics.