Steven Novak Oconomowoc, WI
**************@*****.***
www.linkedin.com/in/steven-novak-3805063
Detail-oriented and results-driven Full Stack Developer with over 20 years of experience delivering robust, scalable web applications. Skilled across the full development stack—including front-end and back-end development, database architecture, and cloud infrastructure. Known for writing clean, efficient code, solving complex technical challenges, and collaborating effectively in Agile/DevOps environments. Committed to performance optimization, code quality, and exceptional user experiences.
Core Competencies
● Full Stack Architecture & Application Development
● Scalable Web and Cloud-Based Solutions
● Technical Consulting & Client Advisory
● RESTful API Design & Integration
● Cross-Functional Team Collaboration & Leadership
● Code Quality, Automated Testing, & Continuous Improvement Technical Skills
Languages: ColdFusion, React, JavaScript, SQL, HTML5, CSS, jQuery Front-End: Bootstrap, Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)
Databases: Microsoft SQL Server
API & Architecture: REST API development, Microservices Architecture SEO & Digital Marketing: On-Page SEO, Technical SEO, Link Building, Local SEO, Analytics Data Formats: JSON, XML
Other Skills: Graphic Design, Data Migration, Digital Marketing, SEO, Email Marketing Infrastructure & Tools: Windows Server, IIS
Professional Experience
Connected Controls Inc - Oconomowoc, WI (2019-Present) Connected Controls is an innovative start-up specializing in the development and manufacturing of advanced digital air-brake testing systems for Class 1 railroads across North America. Our flagship product, the Brake-Boss, streamlines brake testing procedures—delivering significant time and cost savings, enhancing safety, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Leading rail operators such as Norfolk Southern, Canadian Pacific, Union Pacific, and Canadian National rely on Brake-Boss technology to optimize their operations. In 2024 the Brake-Boss was honored with the Progressive Railroading Readers' Choice Award in the Mechanical Products category. (www.thebrakeboss.com)
CTO/Senior Software Engineer
● Led development architecture of cloud-based communication systems connecting field-deployed Brake-Boss testing devices to secure back-end database servers
● Designed and maintained a data and analytics dashboard, providing real-time insights and reporting for clients
● Built and supported a robust REST API to enable clients to access and integrate brake test data into their own systems
● Oversaw the development of the Brake-Boss mobile app, enabling remote control and monitoring of testing devices from the field
● Developed and maintained the company's marketing website to support product visibility and outreach
● Hold patents in wireless air-brake testing and inspection (Patents #10814857 & #11479230) Lake-Link Inc - Oconomowoc, WI (2001-Present)
What began as a personal hobby project centered on fishing and lake information in Wisconsin, Lake-Link has evolved into a thriving business serving outdoor enthusiasts nationwide. The platform provides detailed information on over 50,000 bodies of water across the U.S., and today stands as one of the most heavily trafficked fishing-related websites in the country, attracting more than 3.7 million active users annually. (www.lake-link.com) Full Stack Developer / Owner
● Led all front-end and back-end development efforts for Lake-Link.com
● Designed and implemented user-centric features including interactive maps, real-time fishing reports, and community-driven content to enhance engagement
● Scaled the platform to support growing traffic and user activity, ensuring high performance, reliability, and accessibility across devices
● Integrated numerous third-party APIs to deliver dynamic, real-time data to users
● Managed advertising integration, enabling seamless ad placement and monetization strategies
● Played a key role in growing Lake-Link into a trusted, top-tier resource for fishing and lake-related information.
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration - Accounting & Marketing University Of Wisconsin – Milwaukee