Navigating the digital seas
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Thomas Haslam Computer Science Student & Watersports Instructor

Final-year MEng student at the University of York, charting a course through Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence. Experienced full-stack software developer, having built commercial booking and management systems that combine responsive front-end design, scalable databases, and robust APIs. Like navigating challenging waters, I thrive on solving complex technical problems with precision and innovation.

1st Class Degree Track
5+ Years Experience
RYA Certified Instructor
Explore My Work Download CV
Thomas Haslam
Get to know me

About Me

Where technology meets the tides

Academic & Professional Journey

As a final-year MEng Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence student at the University of York, I'm currently on track to achieve a first-class degree. My academic journey has been anchored by a deep fascination with AI, machine learning, and autonomous systems. This passion culminated in my third-year dissertation project: developing an autonomous vessel navigation system using ROS 2 and AI models evolved through genetic algorithms, a perfect fusion of my technical expertise and maritime interests.

Professional Experience

Full-stack software developer with experience in developing responsive front-end interfaces, designing and optimising databases, implementing robust backend APIs, and deploying production-ready applications. Gained expertise in end-to-end application development, ensuring seamless integration across system components, improving performance, and delivering customer-focused solutions. This experience combined my technical skills with my passion for watersports, allowing me to create solutions that serve the maritime community Iā€™m deeply connected to.

Maritime Passion

Outside of my academics, I work as a watersports instructor and team leader, where I lead sailing and paddle sports sessions, provide safety cover, and perform lifeguarding duties. This role has honed my leadership, communication, and risk management skills in a dynamic environment, qualities that translate seamlessly into software development and team collaboration.

Sailing Instruction

RYA Dinghy Instructor certified

Navigation

RYA Day Skipper & ICC qualified

Water Safety

Lifeguard & RYA First Aid certified

Personal Info

Location Chester, United Kingdom
University University of York
Degree MEng Computer Science with AI
Expected Grade First Class Honours
Graduation July 2026

Maritime Certifications

RYA Dinghy Instructor
RYA Day Skipper & ICC
RYA Powerboat Level 2
RYA First Aid Certified
Career Journey

Professional Experience

Charting my professional course

Software Developer

Sailia February 2024 - August 2025 Remote

Developing and maintaining a commercial watersports booking and management system, perfectly combining my technical expertise with my passion for maritime activities. Leading full-stack development from database design to user interface implementation.

  • Developed and maintained backend APIs using PHP with optimised SQL database schemas for performance and data integrity
  • Designed and implemented responsive frontend interfaces using HTML, CSS, and modern JavaScript frameworks
  • Built key system features including payment processing, client onboarding workflows, and membership management
  • Collaborated directly with clients to scope requirements, deliver custom functionality, and resolve technical issues
  • Participated in agile development processes including sprint planning, task allocation, and peer code reviews
PHP JavaScript HTML/CSS SQL Git Docker

Watersports Instructor and Team Leader

Manley Mere May 2021 - Present Cheshire, UK

Leading sailing and paddle sports sessions while providing essential safety cover and lifeguarding services. This role has developed my leadership, communication, and risk management skills in a dynamic environment.

  • Led comprehensive sailing and paddle sports sessions, delivering safety briefings and practical instruction to diverse groups
  • Performed lifeguard duties for aqua park and open water swimming activities, ensuring public safety and operational efficiency
  • Developed strong leadership and communication skills while managing groups in challenging outdoor conditions
  • Applied risk assessment and management principles in dynamic water-based environments
  • Maintained equipment and facilities to ensure optimal safety standards and operational readiness
Leadership Instruction Risk Management Communication Safety Protocols
My Work

Featured Projects

Navigating innovation through code

Autonomous Vessel Navigation

Autonomous Vessel Navigation System

Dissertation Project
First Class Result AI Navigation

Developed an autonomous navigation system for vessels in channels using neural networks evolved through genetic algorithms. Built with ROS 2 and tested in Gazebo simulation environment. Achieved first-class results by combining AI, robotics, and maritime expertise.

Python ROS 2 PyTorch Gazebo Genetic Algorithms
Bendle Project Screenshot

Bendle

Web Application

Bendle is a web-based guessing game where players identify characters from Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra using a series of progressively revealing hints. Built with JavaScript and CSS, the game features multiple difficulty levels and daily puzzles that challenge both casual fans and Avatar experts.

JavaScript HTML CSS
Autonomous Robotic Control System

Autonomous Robotic Control System

Robotics
Higher Second Class Result

Development of real-time control systems for robotic applications using ROS 2. Focusing on sensor integration, path planning and autonomous decision-making for collision avoidance in dynamic environments.

Python ROS 2 Linux Docker
AI Image Classification

AI Image Classification

Artificial Intelligence
First Class Result

Developed a convolutional neural network to classify images from the Flowers-102 dataset. Improving the model's accuracy through data transformations and augmentation techniques, and applying hyperparameter tuning to optimise training performance and generalisation.

Python PyTorch TensorFlow Neural Networks
Technical Expertise

Skills & Technologies

Navigating the technical depths

Programming Languages

  • Python
  • JavaScript
  • Java
  • C
  • PHP

AI & Machine Learning

  • PyTorch
  • TensorFlow
  • Scikit-learn
  • Neural Networks
  • Genetic Algorithms

Robotics & Systems

  • ROS 2
  • Gazebo
  • Linux
  • Docker
  • WireShark

Web & Database

  • SQL
  • HTML/CSS
  • Git
  • Database Design
Academic Journey

Education

Building the foundation for innovation

MEng Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence

University of York September 2022 - June 2026 Expected: First Class Honours

Comprehensive program encompassing artificial intelligence, deep learning, cyber security, and data analytics. Specialised in autonomous systems and machine learning applications. Third-year dissertation project achieved first-class results developing autonomous vessel navigation using neural networks and genetic algorithms.

Artificial Intelligence Deep Learning Cyber Security Network Engineering Data Analytics Robotics Machine Learning

A-Levels

Sir John Deane's Sixth Form College September 2020 - June 2022 Mathematics: A*, Computer Science: A, Physics: A

Strong foundation in STEM subjects with exceptional performance in Mathematics. Computer Science and Physics studies provided the analytical and problem-solving skills essential for advanced computing and AI applications.

Let's Connect

Get In Touch

Ready to chart new waters together

Let's Navigate New Opportunities

Whether you're looking for a passionate developer who combines technical expertise with real-world maritime experience, or you'd like to discuss opportunities in AI, robotics, or full-stack development, I'd love to hear from you. Let's explore how we can work together to create innovative solutions.

Email

haslamtom77@gmail.com

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GitHub

Atomix77

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