I build web applications that feel intuitive.
I'm Juan Carlos Collins, a Frontend Engineer with 7 years building scalable applications using React, TypeScript, and Next.js. Before that, I spent 15 years teaching graduate students how to build mental models of complex systems. Now I bring both skills together: code that works and experiences that make sense.
The Approach
I look at software through the lens of a teacher. I observe how people encounter new systems, identify where the "cognitive fog" sets in, and build interfaces that act as gentle guides.
My methodology combines:
- Technical Execution: 7 years building production applications with React, TypeScript, Next.js, and D3.js—shipping code that scales.
- Systems Thinking: Frontend architecture, component design, performance optimization, accessibility (WCAG).
- UX Perspective: 15+ years teaching experience means I understand how people learn complex systems. I design interfaces that scaffold understanding—starting simple, revealing complexity as users gain confidence.
Recent Work
Inspect Building — Rebuilt a map-based inspection tool for city officials conducting California Title 24 energy compliance walk-throughs. Full-stack work (Node.js/Express backend, Leaflet.js frontend) that transformed 900 pages of code into impact-ranked question pathways. Built offline-first architecture for basement inspections, JWT authentication, and PDF report generation.
HealthFlow Friction Visualizer — Interactive tool built with Next.js, TypeScript, and shadcn/ui demonstrating component architecture, performance optimization, and data visualization. Live demo →
Origin Story
My path hasn't been a straight line. I've built fintech dashboards at Path, municipal inspection tools at CodeCycle, healthcare SaaS interfaces at DynaBliss. Before engineering, I taught graduate-level Chinese Medicine for 5 years and ran my own acupuncture practice for 10 years.
What connects it all: I care about the small moments where a user either feels empowered or gives up. Every interaction should make someone feel more capable, not less.
"Reducing friction isn't just optimization—it's an act of care."
What I'm Seeking
I'm exploring frontend engineering roles at companies building SaaS products, developer tools, or technical platforms where thoughtful UX makes a difference. Particularly interested in healthcare tech, EdTech, fintech, and companies that value craft.
If your product has complex workflows that need to feel simple, let's talk.
Technical Stack
Frontend Core: React, Next.js, Vue.js, TypeScript, JavaScript (ES6+)
Styling & Performance: Tailwind CSS, SASS/SCSS, CSS-in-JS, performance optimization, accessibility (WCAG)
Data Visualization: D3.js, Three.js, Chart.js, Leaflet.js
Architecture: Component design patterns, state management, SSR/SSG, scalable frontend systems
Backend Experience: Node.js, Express, GraphQL, REST APIs, JWT authentication
CliftonStrengths: Learner • Strategic • Maximizer • Positivity • Intellection