I’m Jake Engelen, a full-stack developer with a passion for building web solutions that are fast, functional, and forward-thinking. With 5 years of experience in software development, I’ve spent the last 3 years honing my craft at The Dallas Morning News, where I work as a mid-level developer creating seamless, user-focused applications. My toolkit? React, Tailwind CSS, Node.js, and Express—technologies I wield to turn ideas into reality with precision and flair. What sets me apart is my knack for problem-solving with React hooks. They’re second nature to me—whether I’m optimizing state management or crafting custom hooks to streamline a project, I thrive on making complex challenges feel effortless. That same drive led me to create Jelly Machine, a side project turned game-changer. It’s a website builder I designed from the ground up using AWS S3, CloudFront, and ACM, delivering blazing-fast sites with near-zero runtime costs. It’s not just a tool—it’s a testament to my belief that efficiency and innovation go hand in hand. At The Dallas Morning News, I’ve contributed to a platform millions rely on, building responsive features and backend systems that keep the news flowing smoothly. But I’m not just about the code—I’m about the impact. I approach every project with a mix of creativity and reliability, ensuring what I build doesn’t just work, but works better. Outside of work, I’m always tinkering—whether it’s experimenting with new frameworks, optimizing workflows, or dreaming up tools like Jelly Machine to push the boundaries of what’s possible. I’m here to deliver results that impress employers and solve problems for clients. If you’re looking for a developer who’s equal parts inventive and dependable, let’s connect—I’d love to bring my skills to your next big idea.