Chase Lester
Software Development Manager · Technologist
Software Development Manager and hands-on technologist with a strong frontend foundation and a systems-level perspective. I work at the intersection of engineering, product, and people, helping teams design and ship scalable web platforms that are reliable, performant, and pleasant to use.
About
My background spans modern JavaScript frameworks, backend services, cloud-hosted systems, and emerging technologies like blockchain and AI-assisted development. I value pragmatic architecture, clear communication, and building software that earns its keep. I’m especially interested in work that blends technical rigor with thoughtful user experience.
Focus Areas
Platform Engineering
Designing and evolving large-scale web platforms with an emphasis on performance, reliability, and maintainability.
Frontend Architecture
Building modern, accessible, and scalable UI systems using React-based ecosystems and contemporary tooling.
Engineering Leadership
Creating environments where teams ship confidently, communicate clearly, and grow sustainably.
Emerging Technology
Exploring blockchain, AI-assisted development, and new interaction models with a practical, product-oriented lens.
Skills
Frontend
- JavaScript (ES6+)
- React, React Native
- Next.js
- HTML5, CSS3
- Styled Components, Emotion
- Redux, Context API
- Responsive Web Design
Backend
- Node.js
- RESTful APIs
- Python
- C#
- Golang
- MongoDB
- Firebase
Cloud / DevOps
- Docker
- CI/CD concepts
- Cloud-native architectures
- Performance optimization
Leadership & Other
- Engineering Management
- Team Leadership
- Project Engineering
- Communication & Mentorship
- Blockchain / Smart Contracts
- SEO & Web Performance
- Strategic Planning
Experience
Software Development Manager
Large-scale e-commerce platform
- Lead and mentor engineers across frontend and backend domains
- Drive architectural direction and technical decision-making
- Partner closely with product and design to deliver high-impact features
- Balance people leadership with technical depth and execution
Education
University of Utah
Bachelor of Science (BS)
Strategic Communications — Emphasis in Web Development
Writing / Thoughts
I believe the best engineering teams are built on trust, clarity, and care for the people doing the work.
I try to lead with empathy and curiosity rather than fear or control. Engineers do their best work when they feel safe to ask questions, challenge ideas, and be honest about what’s working and what isn’t. Fear-based leadership and half-truths might create short-term compliance, but they erode trust and creativity over time.
People come first. Engineers come first. When teams feel supported and respected, the outcomes take care of themselves.
Technology shapes how the world works, but it’s still built by humans. Creating environments where people can think clearly, collaborate openly, and grow together is one of the most effective ways to help an organization succeed. Strong teams build strong systems, and strong systems move companies forward.
More thoughts coming soon.
Now
Lately, my focus has been split between how technology is evolving and how teams evolve alongside it.
On the technical side, I’m spending time exploring applied AI, not as a novelty, but as a practical tool for improving developer workflows, decision-making, and e-commerce systems. I’m particularly interested in how AI agents, system integration, and human-centered tooling can reduce friction and help teams move faster without sacrificing quality.
On the leadership side, I’m focused on creating environments that make innovation possible. That means clarity over pressure, trust over fear, and giving teams the space and support to do their best work. I care deeply about building cultures people want to be part of, places where engineers feel ownership, collaboration feels natural, and success is shared.