Sedona Thomas

Full-Stack Developer

Sedona Thomas

Full-stack developer with 7+ years of programming experience and 3+ years of industry experience building containerized Java and Python microservices and monitoring cloud-native applications using Prometheus and Grafana.

Active Top Secret Security Clearance.

[email protected]

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Profile

About Me

Full-stack developer specializing in cloud-native Java Spring Boot microservices in high-complexity environments. Columbia University graduate with a dual-B.A./B.S. in Computer Science and Human Rights. Strong experience with microservice observability in cloud-native environments.

Brings 7+ years of programming experience in Python, Java, C++, JavaScript, Bash, and other technologies, including 3+ years of full-time industry experience and an internship at Amazon.

Experience leading automated integration testing and application monitoring efforts across a suite of containerized microservices, including designing intuitive, user-friendly Grafana dashboards that enabled both service developers and non-technical maintainers to monitor live system health.

Academic Background

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Human Rights

Columbia University in the City of New York, Columbia College New York, NY

Thesis: The Fairness Fallacy: Northpointe and the COMPAS Recidivism Prediction Algorithm (DOI: 10.7916/ab13-jf83, Advisor: Dr. Tracy Holland)

Coursework focus: the intersection of technology, human rights, and gender studies.

  • Graduated cum laude.
  • Dean's List: Fall 2022, Spring 2023
  • 2023 Faculty Choice Senior Thesis.
  • Teaching Assistant for Computers and Society under Professor Ron Baecker.
  • Conducted undergraduate research under the supervision of Professor Mark Santolucito.

Coursework focus: applications of computer science, artificial intelligence, natural language processing, accessible UI design, and clean object-oriented design.

  • Dean's List: Spring 2021
  • Accepted into Columbia University’s SEAS/CC 4-1 Program, a rigorous dual-degree pathway leading to a B.A. from Columbia College and a B.S. from the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science.
  • Volunteered as a Makerspace staff member and served as a Columbia Health Peer Ambassador.
  • Provided mentorship and academic support to students in the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and Women in Computer Science (WiCS) organizations.

Career

Professional Experience

Research Engineer II

RTX BBN Technologies Cambridge, MA Remote

Present

Full-Stack Software Engineer who developed and monitored scalable backend services using Java and Spring Boot, leveraging Prometheus and Grafana for performance monitoring and observability.

  • Maintain a Top Secret security clearance and ensure federal security protocol compliance.
  • Led the maintenance and expansion of automated integration testing and observability for seven Kafka-based microservices.
  • Built Grafana dashboards for real-time monitoring of system metrics via Prometheus and automated test reporting via InfluxDB.
  • Founded and led weekly cross-team testing meetings to improve collaboration and knowledge sharing within an Agile/Scrum development team.
  • Enhanced a Dockerized Java Spring Boot microservice responsible for processing high-volume XML messages through Kafka.
  • Maintained and expanded a comprehensive suite of automated Python integration tests using Pytest, improving test coverage and reliability.
  • Integrated Drools rule workflows, REST APIs, and GeoServer data to support real-time alerts and automated responses.
  • Supported monthly write-ups as an Ethical Legal and Social Implications (ELSI) Liaison for the use of automated decision makers in a foundational research project.
  • Java
  • Python
  • Grafana
  • Prometheus
  • Kafka
  • Drools (Rule Engine)
  • Swagger/OpenAPI Specification
  • Redis
  • MongoDB
  • InfluxDB

Software Development Engineering Intern

Amazon Prime Video New York, NY Hybrid

Software Engineering Intern at Amazon Prime Video who developed a proof-of-concept promotional content page using Kotlin and Java.

  • Developed and enhanced a proof-of-concept promotional content carousel for Amazon Prime Video using Java and Kotlin, enabling the dynamic presentation of featured titles.
  • Implemented backend components while adhering to established engineering and code-quality standards.
  • Collaborated with software engineers and product managers throughout the feature development process.
  • Tested and debugged features, resolving issues to improve reliability and performance.
  • Participated in code reviews, technical discussions, and Agile development processes throughout the feature lifecycle.
  • Java
  • Kotlin
  • User Interface Design
  • Clean Code Design
  • Code Reviews
  • Collaboration

Primary Course Instructor

Inspirit AI Palo Alto, CA Remote

Primary course instructor for online 10-week courses teaching AI/ML/NLP to young students.

  • Led weekly lessons to cohorts of approximately 20 students about artificial intelligence, natural language processing, and machine learning.
  • Taught courses over Zoom ranging from beginner to advanced consisting of elementary through high-school students.
  • Led development of course materials integrating technology ethics discussions.
  • Communication
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Natural Language Processing
  • Machine Learning
  • Mentorship
  • Teaching

Volunteer Staff Member

Columbia University Makerspace New York, NY In-Person

Volunteer makerspace staff member leading equipment trainings and holding open hours to assist users with fabrication tools and projects.

  • Supported daily makerspace operations by helping users safely access and operate fabrication tools, electronics equipment, and workshop resources.
  • Led hands-on workshops on leathercraft, stained glass, jewelry smithing, 3D printing, laser cutting, and electronics.
  • Trained and advised students, researchers, and community members on equipment use, prototyping techniques, and makerspace policies.
  • Assisted with troubleshooting, workspace organization, equipment maintenance, and enforcement of health and safety procedures.
  • Collaborated with makers from diverse technical backgrounds to develop projects, share knowledge, and foster an inclusive creative environment.
  • Promoted responsible tool use and independent problem-solving while serving as a knowledgeable point of contact during open hours.
  • 3D Printing
  • Laser Cutting
  • Soldering
  • Leathercraft
  • Jewelry Smithing
  • CNC Waterjet Cutting
  • Woodshop Tools
  • Vinyl Cutting

Teaching Assistant

Columbia University New York, NY In-Person

Assisted faculty and held office hours for COMS 3410: Computers and Society, topics of social and technology ethics.

  • Technology Ethics
  • Teaching
  • Communication

Expertise

Skills

Programming Languages

  • Java
  • Python
  • Javascript
  • C/C++
  • Bash
  • Shell Scripting

Backend & Data

  • REST APIs
  • MongoDB
  • Redis
  • Drools (Rule Engine)
  • HTML
  • Markdown
  • YAML
  • XML
  • XSD
  • JSON
  • JSON Schema

Observability & Monitoring

  • Grafana
  • Prometheus
  • Loki
  • InfluxDB
  • PromQL
  • FluxQL

Cloud & Operations

  • Docker
  • Docker Compose
  • Kubernetes
  • SonarQube
  • Artifactory
  • GitLab CI/CD
  • ArgoCD

Leadership & Soft Skills

  • System Design
  • Mentoring
  • Collaboration
  • Agile Delivery
  • Education
  • Technical Writing
  • Technology Ethics
  • Public Speaking

Portfolio

Highlighted Projects

Additional Projects
Screenshot of Basic Monitoring Stack

Basic Monitoring Stack

A basic monitoring stack built with Grafana, Prometheus, Loki, Nginx, and cAdvisor for collecting, storing, and visualizing Docker container metrics.

  • Grafana
  • Prometheus
  • Loki
  • Nginx
  • Docker
  • Observability
  • Open Source
Screenshot of Kinetic Sculpture

Kinetic Sculpture

A kinetic sculpture art installation on an ESP32 TTGO T-Display programmed in C++.

  • C++
  • ESP32
  • Python
  • HTML
  • Doxygen
  • Laser Cutter
  • 3D Printer
  • 2D/3D CAD Modeling

In collaboration with: Anaïs Lawson

Screenshot of Digital Music Box

Digital Music Box

A control box allowing a user to play a digital synthesizer from their computer keyboard. Uses an C++, JavaScript, and HTML.

  • C++
  • ESP32
  • Python
  • HTML
  • Doxygen
  • Laser Cutter
  • 2D CAD Modeling

Recognition

Awards & Recognition

ISHR Thesis Competition: Undergraduate Faculty Choice

Columbia University Institute for the Study of Human Rights (ISHR)
Description
Article
  • The Fairness Fallacy: Northpointe and the COMPAS Recidivism Prediction Algorithm (DOI: 10.7916/ab13-jf83, Advisor: Dr. Tracy Holland)
  • Annual Columbia University Institute for the Study of Human Rights Thesis Competition, in which students deliver five-minute presentations on their thesis research and are evaluated by a faculty panel.

Columbia University Dean's List

Columbia University
Description
  • Academic honor awarded for outstanding semester performance, requiring a GPA of at least 3.5 with 15+ graded credits in Columbia Engineering or 3.6 with 12+ letter-graded credits in Columbia College.

Columbia University SEAS-CC 4-1 Program Selectee

Columbia University
Description
Acceptance Letter Source
  • Selected for Columbia University’s 4-1 SEAS/CC Program, a rigorous dual-degree pathway combining a B.A. from Columbia College with a B.S. in Engineering from Columbia Engineering.

The Beesen Global Experience Research Fellowship

Columbia University
Description
Acceptance Letter Article
  • The Beesen Global Travel Fellowship provides financial assistance to individuals seeking to engage those interests by participating in Columbia study abroad program at Reid Hall.

Nevada Governor's Volunteer Recognition Award

Nevada Volunteers & Brian Sandoval, Governor of the State of Nevada
Description
Certificate
  • Recognized for outstanding volunteer service, including significant community contributions, leadership in launching or enhancing programs, championing innovation, and addressing organizational needs.

Writing Contributions

Publications

Human-AI Collaborations for Controlled Tasking Use Cases

Co-Author AAAI Spring Symposium

Abstract

Many Human-AI collaborations are based on task environments in which tasks on controllable assets need to be taken (e.g., to change a route of a truck or to send an informational message to the truck driver) in response to results of monitoring tasks (e.g., changes in customer needs, changes in weather). Human-AI teams need to collaborate effectively and efficiently to generate, assess, and adjust Courses of Actions (COAs) in those environments. RTX BBN Technologies (BBN) has developed multiple AI agents, covering different specific use cases, and is currently deploying Human-AI teams into operational environments. In our work, the most relevant use cases involve an AI agent advising a human on executing complex tasks and human and AI agents handling subtasks usually done by one person. The workshop presentation will focus on overall context, our successes with Human-AI teams in recent years, and specific insights from our work with Human-AI teams performing joint activities in controlled tasking environments.

  • Human Computer Interaction (HCI)
  • Controlled Tasking
  • Human-AI Teaming

The Fairness Fallacy: Northpointe and the COMPAS Recidivism Prediction Algorithm

Author Columbia University Academic Commons

Abstract

Recent advancements in machine learning algorithms have gained public attention for a variety of reasons and expanded into almost every domain—including the criminal justice system. These criminogenic algorithms are trained on real-world data to make highly specific predictions about criminal behaviors and personality traits.

The reflection of real-world discrimination within algorithms has posed novel risks to the human rights obligation of non-discrimination under the law, and debates around appropriate choices of quantifiable fairness metrics have remained largely unresolved—and remain entirely unaddressed under international law. This research proposes a preliminary set of requirements for assessing the fairness of criminal justice algorithms that aggregates General Recommendations from the United Nations.

Through a case study of Northpointe, Inc.’s COMPAS recidivism prediction algorithm focusing on its use in the state of New York, these requirements are contextualized in relation to various features of the algorithmic assessment process and computational norms regarding validation studies. This thesis sheds light on features of criminogenic assessment algorithms that may lead to bias against protected groups. Additionally, it highlights major limitations in research, including the proprietary nature of these algorithms, which pose significant obstacles to fully understanding their potential biases.

  • Human Rights
  • Technology Ethics
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Machine Learning
  • Predictive Policing
  • Criminal Justice
  • United Nations

AI & Human Rights 2022 Report

Volunteer Contributor All Tech Is Human (Non-Profit)

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other digital technologies are tools. As such, they can be used to create unprecedented opportunities and advancement, and can also be wielded in ways that oppress and harm. Applied unconsciously, they will continue to recreate existing social norms, biases and power structures. Developed thoughtfully, they can help transform society for the better.

While the breadth of applications for AI are enormous, the ways in which these technologies intersect with human rights are no different from previous technologies. In other words, AI can be leveraged to advance human knowledge and capacity in a range of fields - including, but not limited to, medicine, engineering, energy, finance, law, communication and security. In the process, they can also enable dangerous violations of human rights in areas of digital identity, privacy, healthcare and civil rights, to name a few.

This report outlines key issues and opportunities related to the intersection of AI and Human Rights, across seven key areas - Automated Decision Making Systems and Civil Rights; Data Privacy; Synthetic Media and Information Integrity; Content Moderation; Healthcare; Surveillance Technology, Predictive Technology and Criminal Justice; and Cybersecurity and Autonomous Weapons. These topics are not intended to be comprehensive. Rather, they explore some of the key issues surfaced by our team of 93 co-authors. Each section provides an overview of the topic, and lists key barriers and challenges, next steps and proposed solutions.

  • Human Rights
  • Technology Ethics
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Machine Learning

Organizations & Affiliations

Organizations

Conference Alumnus Out for Undergrad (O4U)

Present

Lifetime Member Girl Scouts of the USA

Present

Lifetime Member Gamma Phi Beta - Iota Chapter

Present

Member Order of Omega - Nu Omicron Chapter (Greek Honor Society)

General Member Society of Women Engineers (SWE)

General Member Women in Computer Science (WiCS)

Events

Conference Experience

Out for Undergrad (O4U) Conference Selected Participant

  • Engineering St. Paul, MN
  • Engineering Virtual
  • Tech Virtual
  • Selected through O4U’s competitive application process to attend a national conference for high-achieving LGBTQ+ undergraduates.
  • Participated in workshops, networking events, and employer discussions focused on software engineering, product management, and technology careers.
  • Connected with technology professionals and fellow students, gaining insight into recruiting, mentorship, and career pathways in the tech industry.

Volunteer Experience

Volunteering

Volunteer Staff Member Columbia University Makerspace

Volunteer makerspace staff member leading equipment trainings and holding open hours to assist users with fabrication tools and projects.

Description
  • Supported daily makerspace operations by helping users safely access and operate fabrication tools, electronics equipment, and workshop resources.
  • Led hands-on workshops on leathercraft, stained glass, jewelry smithing, 3D printing, laser cutting, and electronics.
  • Trained and advised students, researchers, and community members on equipment use, prototyping techniques, and makerspace policies.
  • Assisted with troubleshooting, workspace organization, equipment maintenance, and enforcement of health and safety procedures.
  • Collaborated with makers from diverse technical backgrounds to develop projects, share knowledge, and foster an inclusive creative environment.
  • Promoted responsible tool use and independent problem-solving while serving as a knowledgeable point of contact during open hours.
  • 3D Printing
  • Laser Cutting
  • Soldering
  • Leathercraft
  • Jewelry Smithing
  • CNC Waterjet Cutting
  • Woodshop Tools
  • Vinyl Cutting

New Student Orientation Program (NSOP) Discussion Facilitator Columbia Health

NSOP Discussion Facilitator supporting hundreds of incoming students by leading health and campus life discussions.

Description
  • Facilitated New Student Orientation Program (NSOP) discussions for hundreds of incoming students each year, covering campus resources, academics, mental health, and student life.
  • Educated Columbia students about available campus resources and services through the Responsible Community @ Columbia and Live Well | Learn Well and R.O.A.R. @ Columbia initiatives.
  • Served as a liaison between the student body and Columbia Health by communicating students' needs, concerns, and feedback.
  • Guided incoming and current students in navigating campus life, fostering meaningful connections and promoting an inclusive community.
  • Mentored peers by answering questions, sharing personal experiences, and encouraging student involvement.
  • Collaborated with orientation staff and student leaders to create inclusive and informative programming.
  • Public Speaking
  • Leadership
  • Communication
  • Collaboration
  • Mentorship
  • Group Facilitation

Peer Ambassador Columbia Health

Peer Ambassador serving as a liaison between the student body and Columbia Health.

Description
  • Educated Columbia students about available campus resources and services.
  • Served as a liaison between the student body and Columbia Health by communicating students' needs, concerns, and feedback.
  • Guided students in navigating campus life, fostering meaningful connections and promoting an inclusive community.
  • Mentored peers by answering questions, sharing personal experiences, and encouraging student involvement.
  • Leadership
  • Communication
  • Collaboration

Student Volunteer Computers and Society

Student volunteer curating resources to aid multidisciplinary learning about computers and society and computer ethics.

Description
  • Researching and writing the first Computers and Society Wikipedia page.
  • Collaborating with University of Toronto Emeritus Professor Ron Baecker, author of Computers and Society: Modern Perspectives (Oxford University Press, 2019) and Digital Dreams Have Become Nightmares: What We Must Do (2021).
  • Researching and drafting content on topics at the intersection of computing, technology, and society.
  • Editing and organizing materials to support the development of the Wikipedia page.
  • Research included topics such as algorithmic biases, security, data breaches, identity theft, ransomware, deepfakes, fairness, truth, injustice, anthropomorphism, responsibility, accountability, government by algorithm, regulation of algorithms, AI being used prematurely, explainable AI, and computational trust
  • Research
  • Academic Writing
  • Collaboration
  • Critical Analysis
  • Technology Ethics
  • Copy Editing
  • Source Evaluation

Communication

Languages

  • English: Native
  • French: Limited working proficiency

Get In Touch

Contact Me

I am open to software engineering opportunities.

Email Sedona Thomas