Gavin Roake

This website is served by a lightweight HTTP/1.1 web server written entirely in modern C++ using raw BSD socket programming. The server was built from scratch without external networking or web frameworks, directly handling TCP connections, HTTP request parsing, and response generation. The server runs on a Raspberry Pi in my room and listens for incoming connections forwarded through my home network.

This setup was designed as a learning-focused systems project to demonstrate a practical understanding of networking fundamentals, HTTP internals, and low-level server architecture, from socket lifecycle management to request routing and file serving.

• Built real-time data parsers and communication modules integrating with an over-the-line hardware bus, improving interoperability across distributed training systems.
• Developed simulation tools, augmented reality applications, and network-enabled software supporting multi-program training environments.
• Implemented full-stack and network-driven features using C++, C#, JavaScript (Node.js), HTML, and CSS.
• Built interactive gauge clusters consuming live and recorded telemetry, improving responsiveness and synchronization across system components.
• Sole developer of an AR training application using Unity and MRTK, integrating real-time networked data while maintaining 30+ FPS and reducing model load times by 40%.

• Led development of a VR application reconstructing drone flight paths using live and recorded telemetry.
• Implemented the core data pipeline, including packet parsing, multi-drone ID handling, and centralized data management.
• Engineered real-time mapping and synchronized playback enabling live drone visualization.
• Authored technical documentation including architecture diagrams, telemetry models, and data-flow descriptions.

• Developed a Discord bot enabling real-time integration between GitHub events and Discord workflows.
• ShellHacks 2024 Finalist.

• Built a lightweight HTTP/1.1 web server from scratch using raw socket programming without external libraries.
• Implemented a custom HTTP request parser handling methods, paths, and headers directly from browser traffic.
• Designed and deployed the server on a Raspberry Pi with custom networking, DNS, and Cloudflare integration.

• Completed the 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail and the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail.
• Managed route planning, logistics, and solo decision-making over multi-month expeditions.
• Developed resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills under sustained high-pressure conditions.