Natalie Girard
Learner. Creator. Leader.
Natalie Girard

I am an experienced web developer with extensive knowledge in various web technologies and a profound understanding of JavaScript. I value collaboration, continuous improvement, and transparent communication. I enjoy mentoring and fostering a culture of learning, and I am passionate about tackling challenging projects using emerging technologies.

I am currently transitioning between roles. Previously, I was a senior full-stack web developer and held managerial and team leadership positions. My expertise spans the entire web stack, with a particular emphasis on front-end technologies and APIs. I have participated in multiple SaaS projects, utilizing technologies such as React, Redux, and Node, and made contributions to APIs using Python, GraphQL, and Go.

I’ve explored frameworks like Svelte and Vue, and have some experience with React-Native, Flutter, and native mobile programming. Although I have worked with older technologies, my primary focus is on adopting newer frameworks and technologies for future projects.

Past Projects

I enjoy learning new things. Here are some of the projects:

Six Dice Game

I was interested in learning more about 3D JavaScript and physics engines. During a family game at the cottage, I realized this could be an excellent project to build using these engines. The game involves rolling six dice to score points. If you fail to score or decide to keep your accumulated points, the turn passes to the next player.

I discovered a tutorial on dice rolling using three.js and cannon-es. I constructed the game based on this, modifying the existing code to fit my needs. One of my goals was to reduce library dependencies. Initially, I attempted to build it using only vanilla JavaScript, but soon realized I needed a library to enhance reactivity and reduce the numerous DOM calls. I chose VanJS. After overcoming a brief learning curve, I integrated VanJS into the application. This allowed me to quickly complete the interactive components of the game.

Arlow Cards

In late 2022, I launched a unique greeting card company, Arlow Cards. The concept involves each physical card containing a QR code sticker. When scanned, this code opens a web application that provides an augmented reality experience.

To create a proof of concept for the technology, I created a Christmas card and sent it to over fifty close friends and relatives. I requested their feedback and gathered usage analytics. The overall response was positive, particularly among younger family members.

I had a wonderful experience learning new technology to bring this project to life. However, due to various circumstances and after careful consideration, I’ve decided not to continue with the business at this time.

The Development Process

I used Blender to create a 3D model of a Christmas tree, complete with garland, ornaments, and lights. This model was featured on the front of my card. When the card is viewed through the augmented reality web interface, the 3D tree model emerges in augmented reality.

Inside the card, I displayed a picture of a snow globe featuring a winter scene of a cabin in the woods. When viewed through the app, the static image transforms into a full-color video, complete with lights, moving smoke, and falling snow within the snow globe.

As a bonus, the back of the card displays the logo, which features our owl mascot, Arlow. When viewed through the app, a speech bubble appears next to the logo, wishing the recipient a Merry Christmas.

Web Bluetooth API

Using the Web Bluetooth API, I developed a Progressive Web App proof of concept (Demo page) that control a Playbulb Candle. For more information about the web app, please refer to the Github repo. I also presented a Workshop on the Bluetooth API at a TorontoJS meetup on May 9th, 2017.

Comparison of Front-end Frameworks

On June 15, 2016, I presented a comparison of front-end frameworks at ExploreTech. To prepare for the talk, I developed a simple single-page application using various front-end frameworks. My aim was to create a diverse application with common SPA design elements to compare implementations and highlight each framework’s strengths and weaknesses. I hoped to assist others in selecting the most suitable framework for their projects. Initially, I planned to continue implementing the application in other frameworks as they emerged, but I have since moved on to other projects. You can view the Github repo for this project.