Experienced software engineer with extensive experience in mobile messaging, network security, and distributed systems. Skilled in Java and Python with a proven track record in performance optimisation, promoting continuous integration, agile practices and contributing to cross-functional teams in globally distributed environments.
Core Interests
Networks & Services
Mobile messaging, network security, ELK stack analytics, microservices
Software Development
Java, Python, Spring Boot; distributed systems; regulatory technology
Quality & Testing
Performance optimization, security remediation, test automation
Leadership & Process
Agile advocacy, team leadership, cross-functional collaboration
Personal Projects
Recent projects and ongoing work spanning automation, development tooling, and workflow optimization.
Go Home Automation (go-ha-lainn)
Technologies: Go
Repository: github.com/ruskotron/go-ha-lainn
Purpose: Home automation system built with Go.
Description: A modern home automation solution leveraging Go's performance and concurrency features for reliable smart home control and integration.
Raspberry Pi Infrared Relay for Sky Q
Technologies: Raspberry Pi, Python, IR hardware, Home Assistant
Repository: github.com/ruskotron/sky_remote_relay
Purpose: Automated infrared control system for Sky Q set-top box integration with home automation.
Description: Custom hardware solution using Raspberry Pi to receive infrared commands from Sky remote. Enables remote control of all Sky Q functions, when box is in another room. Uses lirc for processing infrared signals, and Sky command codes kindly provided by the community
Key Features:
- IR receiver hardware interface
- Channel changing and menu interaction
- Scheduled recording automation
Python MQTT to Lightwave Relay
Technologies: Python, MQTT, Lightwave RF, Home Assistant
Repository: github.com/ruskotron/ha_mqtt_lwrf
Purpose: Bridge service connecting MQTT messaging system with Lightwave RF smart home devices.
Description: Python service that translates MQTT messages into Lightwave RF commands, enabling control of lights, switches, and other RF devices through Home Assistant and other MQTT-compatible systems. Provides reliable two-way communication and status reporting.
Key Features:
- MQTT broker integration
- Lightwave RF protocol handling
- Home Assistant auto-configuration
- Backward compatibility
Irish Lemmy Instance
Technologies: Docker, PostgreSQL, Nginx, Linux server administration
Purpose: Community-focused Lemmy instance serving Irish users in the fediverse ecosystem.
Description: Self-hosted Lemmy instance providing a federated social platform for Irish communities. Involves server setup, database management, security configuration, and community moderation. Connected to the broader fediverse network allowing cross-instance communication.
Key Features:
- Federated social networking
- Community creation and moderation
- Cross-instance content sharing
- User registration and authentication
- Mobile-responsive web interface