Brian Hoglund

Full-Stack Software Developer

About Me

I am a versatile software developer with strong expertise in web development, database design, and interactive applications. I build scalable, maintainable .NET web platforms and data-driven backend systems, delivering robust solutions that support critical business needs. Alongside this, I design and develop cross-platform games and simulations using Unity, including WebGL and AR/VR experiences. I enjoy bridging engaging user interfaces with solid backend architecture, writing clean code, and solving complex problems. Feel free to explore some of my projects below that demonstrate these skills across web and interactive domains.

Projects

Chess App with React.js and Node.js

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A full-stack chess application built with React and Node.js that integrates react-chess for the interactive board UI, chess.js for game rules and validation, and a backend Stockfish AI engine for strong computer opponent moves. Features custom React components for game setup, time controls, endgame overlays, and AI bot selection. Designed primarily for Linux, but easily adapted to Windows with alternate Stockfish binaries. This project highlights clean integration of third-party chess libraries, asynchronous AI processing, and modern React state management.

GitHub Link | Deployed Website Link

Object Pooling

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This project implements a robust and efficient object pooling system using C# and Unity, designed to optimize performance by reducing costly object instantiation and garbage collection. Leveraging .NET object-oriented principles, it features a generic ObjectPool class, an abstract PoolableObject base class for inheritance, and a centralized PoolManager for streamlined access and management. A practical, time-based example illustrates its effectiveness. This design enhances performance, promotes code reuse, and demonstrates solid software engineering practices applicable beyond game development.

GitHub Link

Behavior Tree AI System

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This project showcases a C# behavior tree data structure I developed and implemented for animal AI within the Unity Game Engine. Built using .NET design principles, it also utilizes a blackboard architecture to manage AI state and decision-making, enabling more dynamic and reactive behaviors in the environment.

GitHub Link | YouTube Video

Data Integration and Automation System for Naval Analytics

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Developed a robust data integration and automation system for NAVSEA, enabling real-time data availability for analysts. This involved designing and implementing a SQL database, automating data collection from diverse sources (including web APIs, web scraping, and external databases), and creating optimized queries and views for use in data visualization tools. Successfully managed large and complex datasets, ensuring data quality and accessibility. Collaborated with stakeholders to understand their needs and deliver effective solutions within system constraints.

Skills: .NET Core development, SQL database design and development, data integration, data automation, web scraping, API integration, PowerShell scripting, data analysis, stakeholder collaboration.

Cross-Platform 3D Visualization and Inspection Tool

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Developed a cross-platform (web, desktop, VR) 3D visualization and inspection tool using Unity and WebGL for the Keyport Naval Undersea Warfare Center. This tool enabled detailed breakdown and inspection of complex mechanical assets, including metadata visualization derived from CAD models. Developed automation tools that streamlined the integration of new assets into the application, significantly reducing development time and effort.

Skills: Unity development, WebGL, VR development, 3D visualization, data visualization, automation tools, cross-platform development, CAD integration.

Software Demo Video Link (Public Release Version)

Professional Experience

Computer Scientist | Naval Undersea Warfare Center, Keyport Division

2020 - Present

Research Assistant | Oregon State University

2018 - 2020

You can view my published work here.

Web Application Developer (Contract) | Nova Dynamics

03/2020 - 05/2020

Education

B.S. Computer Science | Oregon State University 2020

B.S. Mathematics | Oregon State University 2016

Contact

Email: brian.g.hoglund@gmail.com

LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile

GitHub: GitHub Profile