Raz Pataca
Drupal Expert & Full-Stack Developer | 20+ Years of Building for the Web
Summary
With over 20 years of experience in digital media, software development, and technology management, I specialize in creating innovative solutions that enhance user engagement, streamline operations, and drive business growth. My expertise spans full-stack web development, multimedia platform creation, cloud infrastructure management, and team leadership, with a strong focus on delivering impactful projects for corporate clients, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.
I have led and contributed to large-scale digital transformation projects for clients such as Chick-fil-A, Zaxby’s, In-N-Out Burger, and CBMC, consistently delivering scalable, multilingual, and multimedia-rich platforms that support training, event engagement, and community-building efforts. My technical skills include PHP, JavaScript, AWS cloud administration, Drupal, Moodle, and mobile app development, paired with a strategic mindset for data analytics, CRM integration, and vendor management.
Passionate about leveraging technology to empower organizations and communities, I also bring extensive experience mentoring teams, managing cross-functional collaborations, and supporting end users with a strong commitment to uptime and performance. Whether enhancing a global eLearning platform or managing AV systems for live events and worship services, I focus on creating seamless, user-friendly experiences that make a difference.
Experience
Senior System Analyst & Technical Lead
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) / Feb 2019 – Present
Contractor supporting the National Toxicology Program (NTP)
As lead developer and technical strategist at NIEHS, I directed the migration of NTP’s public websites from a legacy CMS (Percussion) to Drupal 9—now maintained on Drupal 10. This large-scale modernization involved deep collaboration with developers, content editors, and federal stakeholders to overhaul key digital platforms.
- Led full rebuild and migration to Drupal 9+, creating a custom migration framework that processed over 100,000 content items and hundreds of thousands of files—with zero data loss.
- Designed and implemented secure integration pipelines to transfer data between external cloud environments and internal NIEHS systems.
- Supported the organization through a successful Authority to Operate (ATO) process, aligning with federal cybersecurity protocols.
- Managed and mentored a team of Drupal developers, ensuring high-quality code, efficient workflows, and skill growth.
- Onboarded and trained large teams of content editors via workshops and one-on-one coaching, backed by documentation and support.
- Delivered Tier 2 and 3 support, resolving complex technical and infrastructure issues.
- Led multiple special projects, including:
- Replacing a legacy Java applet with a modern Drupal system using custom XSLT to render complex reports.
- Porting internal applications from C# to Laravel PHP, modernizing outdated systems for long-term scalability.
- With 20+ years of experience, I bring deep expertise in full-stack development, digital transformation, and leadership—bridging legacy systems with secure, scalable, and maintainable solutions.
Founder & Lead Developer
Raz Pataca LLC / Apr 2016 – Present
Freelance/Contract Web Services & Consulting
Seasoned web developer and consultant with a track record of delivering high-impact digital solutions across both public and private sectors. Known for a hands-on, solutions-focused approach and the ability to adapt quickly to complex, fast-paced environments.
Highly proficient in Drupal (6 through 10), Laravel, AngularJS, Python, and C#, with full-stack experience spanning front-end design, back-end development, custom integrations, and enterprise content migration. Adept at managing the full project lifecycle—from initial concept to final deployment—ensuring delivery is on-time, on-budget, and on-target.
- Served as both a lead consultant and embedded team member on projects ranging from small business websites to large-scale government platforms.
- Deep expertise in WordPress, Drupal site building and theming, and custom module development.
- Experienced in creating secure, scalable applications using Laravel PHP and building interactive UIs with AngularJS.
- Strong background in systems integration, data migration, and backend services using Python and C#.
- Committed to code quality, accessibility, and long-term maintainability.
- Trusted by clients for professionalism, adaptability, and a “make it work” mindset.
- Whether building from scratch or rescuing a struggling project, I bring technical depth, leadership, and results-driven execution to every engagement.
Senior / Lead Developer
NovoLogic / Feb 2009 – Mar 2017
Collaborative Workspace | Downtown Lawrenceville, GA
As a founding partner of Cornerstone at Novologic, I helped launch and manage a thriving coworking space located in the heart of downtown Lawrenceville—a fast-growing, entrepreneurial hub just outside Atlanta. Designed for business owners, creatives, and innovators, Cornerstone offered a vibrant, productivity-focused environment built on collaboration, inspiration, and community.
- Architected and launched custom LMS and CMS platforms, deployed as SaaS products for multiple national clients, improving training accessibility and content delivery.
- Designed and implemented over a dozen software solutions enhancing operational workflows, customer engagement, and process efficiency.
- Led full project lifecycles—managing timelines, development, and deployment—to deliver solutions on time and on budget.
- Headed developer teams capturing and processing media content at national conferences, coordinating production and post-production workflows.
- Provided Tier 2/3 support and troubleshooting, resolving complex issues through root cause analysis and effective solutions.
- Integrated third-party APIs, built robust MySQL backends, and managed internal server infrastructure to ensure reliable system performance.
- Mentored junior developers and contributed to core product development and company strategy.
- Collaborated directly with clients ranging from billion-dollar enterprises to small businesses, adapting to diverse needs with agility.
- Worked within Agile/Scrum environments, actively participating in sprints and iterative releases.
- This role honed my skills in full-stack development, client relations, SaaS architecture, and team leadership, positioning me to drive impactful technology solutions across industries.
Co-Founder & Partner
Cornerstone at NovoLogic / Jun 2012 – Mar 2017
Collaborative Workspace | Downtown Lawrenceville, GA
As a founding partner of Cornerstone at Novologic, I helped launch and manage a thriving coworking space located in the heart of downtown Lawrenceville—a fast-growing, entrepreneurial hub just outside Atlanta. Designed for business owners, creatives, and innovators, Cornerstone offered a vibrant, productivity-focused environment built on collaboration, inspiration, and community.
- Played a leading role in conceptualizing and building a cutting-edge coworking facility that supported entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small teams.
- Led efforts in business development, marketing, and community engagement, driving membership growth and fostering strategic partnerships within the local startup ecosystem.
- Identified and secured the right vendors, service providers, and strategic partners critical to the successful launch and long-term sustainability of the business.
- Helped design a space that could host client meetings, product launches, team trainings, and speaker events—positioning Cornerstone as a go-to venue for professional development and creative collaboration.
- Created an atmosphere centered around positive energy, meaningful networking, and long-term business relationship building.
- Whether members needed a space to focus, collaborate, or impress their next big client, Cornerstone became a catalyst for innovation and entrepreneurial success in the Lawrenceville community.
- Network. Partner. Thrive.
Web Development & Multimedia Roles
On Court Player Development & Suwanee Sports Academy / 2005 – 2010
Played a key role in conceptualizing, building, and managing a large-scale, on-demand basketball training platform designed to empower youth coaches, players, parents, league organizers, and facility operators. The initiative aimed to transform grassroots basketball through accessible digital tools and a community-focused approach to development.
- Designed and developed a dynamic multimedia website using HTML, JavaScript, PHP, and MySQL, supporting 750–1,000 daily visits and significantly boosting sales revenue.
- Led the company’s successful rebranding effort through updated web design, marketing collateral, and promotional video production.
- Built and maintained a Salesforce CRM to streamline client and team interactions and improve workflow efficiency.
- Developed a custom social networking platform to foster user engagement and knowledge sharing.
- Provided site analytics and reporting to inform data-driven decisions on UX improvements and platform evolution.
- Trained internal staff on CMS tools, enabling independent content management and operational agility.
- Managed day-to-day web operations and IT infrastructure, ensuring uptime, reliability, and ease of use.
- Oversaw project milestones, mentored interns, and collaborated with internal teams and third-party vendors to deliver high-impact solutions on time and on budget.
- This role strengthened my expertise in full-stack web development, digital content strategy, CRM management, and user-focused design—while contributing to a platform that empowered thousands in the youth sports ecosystem.
Projects
- CBMC Advance: CBMC Advance is a mobile-friendly, multilingual digital platform designed to make life-on-life discipleship and faith exploration accessible to individuals and small groups around the world. Developed for CBMC, a global ministry equipping business professionals to live out their faith in the marketplace, the platform supports users in over a dozen countries and languages with tools for evangelism, discipleship, and spiritual growth.
- Chick-fil-A Seminar: NovoLogic provided a comprehensive suite of digital media and technology services to elevate the attendee experience at Chick-fil-A's annual Seminar event, while extending the event’s impact beyond its conclusion through rich media, interactivity, and on-demand access.
- Apollo Gamification: Developed a personalized digital experience for prospective students that connected academic programs at the University of Phoenix with real-world career opportunities. The goal was to drive lead conversion and support enrollment by showcasing the career value of a UoPX degree. The platform enriched Enrollment Advisor conversations by emphasizing outcomes-based education and also increased engagement and RFI (Request for Information) submissions from independent site visitors.
- Zaxby’s Business Conference: NovoLogic delivered a comprehensive suite of creative, technical, and production services to support Zaxby’s Fall 2014 Business Conference, ensuring an engaging and seamless experience for all attendees.
- Chick-fil-A InFORM: NovoLogic partnered with Chick-fil-A to develop a customized eLearning and performance support platform integrated with the existing CFA Learning Portal. This initiative supported the rollout of InFORM, a new back-office system replacing REMACS, encompassing inventory, financial, ordering, and restaurant management functions.
- Ken Coleman Show: Supported the digital growth and audience engagement for The Ken Coleman Show—a prominent talk radio program dedicated to authentic, meaningful conversations that cut through political noise to connect with everyday listeners. The platform serves as a vital hub for fans and followers to engage with the show’s content, host personality, and community.
- Zaxby’s Convention Services: NovoLogic delivered end-to-end event technology and production support to enhance the attendee experience before, during, and after Zaxby’s corporate convention.
Volunteer
Audio/Visual & Tech Coordinator
The Bridge Church Atlanta / Jan 2013 – Present
- Collaborate with a team of a dozen volunteers to operate and optimize audio and video systems during weekly services, ensuring high-quality sound and visual experiences for congregants both in-person and online.
- Commit an average of 6–8 hours weekly, balancing technical duties with proactive technology planning and implementation.
- Continuously research, evaluate, and integrate emerging technologies to enhance the worship experience and support church operations.
- Manage and maintain the church website and related digital platforms, ensuring timely updates, user accessibility, and reliable performance.
- Oversee systems infrastructure including hardware, software, and network components critical to church communications and operations.
- Provide technical support, training, and strategic guidance to church staff and leadership to maximize technology utilization and minimize disruptions.
- Manage vendor relationships, coordinating service agreements, equipment procurement, and technical support to ensure smooth technology operations.
- Prepare and deliver detailed reports and data analytics to church leadership to inform decisions and support ongoing improvements.
- This volunteer role combines technical expertise, teamwork, and strategic foresight, contributing to the church’s mission by enhancing the digital and in-person worship experience and strengthening organizational technology capabilities.
Skills
Agile/Scrum, Analytics, AngularJS, APIs, AWS Infrastructure Management, Business Development, C#, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), Cloud Infrastructure & AWS Administration, CloudOps, CMS, Community Engagement, Content Management System (CMS) Administration, Creative Design & Messaging, CRM, Cross-Platform Compatibility, CSS, Custom Feature Design & Implementation, Data Analytics & CRM Integration, Data-Driven Personalization, DevOps, Digital Discipleship Tools Design, Digital Marketing, Drupal, E-Learning Development, EdTech Application Development, Employee Training, Entrepreneurship, Event Production & Management, Event Technology Management, Event Technology Platform Development, Front-End Development, Full-Stack Development, Git, Global User Support, Graphic Design, HTML, HTML5, Illustrator, ImageReady, InDesign, Instructional Design & Multimedia, Interactive Audience Engagement (Texting & Polling), JavaScript, Joomla, jQuery, Laravel, Lead Conversion Strategy, Leadership, Linux, LMS, MacOSX, Marketing Strategy, Microsoft Excel, Mobile App Development (iOS & Android), Mobile Devices, Moodle & Drupal Integration, Multilingual Platform Development, Multimedia Content Management and Distribution, Multimedia Production, MySQL, Online Content Creation, Online Marketing, Operations Management, OSX, Percussion, Performance Support Systems, Photoshop, PHP, PowerPoint, Problem Solving, Project & Team Leadership, Project Management, Python, Real-Time Audience Engagement (SMS Texting & Live Polling), Salesforce.com, Senior/Lead Dev, Social Media, Software as a Service (SaaS), Team & Developer Management, Technical Support & Troubleshooting, User Interface Design, User Training & Documentation, User-Centered Experience Design, Video Production & Editing, Video Production and Post-Processing, Web Analytics and Data Reporting, Web Applications, Web Design, Web Development, Web Management , Web Services, Web/Multi-Media, Windows, WordPress
Services
Web Development,Web Design,SaaS Development,Information Management,Custom Software Development,Application Development,Cloud Application Development,Cloud Management,Database Development,Enterprise Content Management