John Minkle
IT Director · Software Developer · Systems Administrator
Mission-driven technology for nonprofits, ecology, and community.
Summary
Versatile IT generalist, software developer, and systems administrator with extensive experience supporting mission-driven organizations, especially in biodiversity, ecological restoration, and community education.
Comfortable owning the full stack of digital infrastructure: from WordPress development and data automation to Windows domain administration, analytics dashboards, and public-access workstation security. Adept at translating ambiguous needs into clear, maintainable systems and tools that non-technical teams can rely on.
Nonprofit IT Leadership
WordPress & PHP Development
Python & Data Automation
GA4 & Analytics
Windows Domain & Server Admin
Cross-Platform Environments
Mission-Driven Tech
Ecology & Biodiversity Support
Core Skills
Web & Application Development
- WordPress theme and plugin development (custom post types, taxonomies, templates)
- Custom Gutenberg blocks and front-end components
- Responsive layouts and accessible HTML/CSS
- Interactive tools (sliders, maps, data visualizations, weather apps)
- Registration and payment flows with CRM and payment gateways
Systems & Infrastructure
- Windows Server and domain administration
- Active Directory, shared drives, public-access workstation hardening
- Office 365 & Google Workspace configuration and support
- Linux servers for web hosting, email, and applications
- Endpoint security, backups, and vendor coordination
Data, Automation & Analytics
- Google Analytics 4 (GA4) reports, dashboards, and landing-page analysis
- Python scripting for data processing, reporting, and CSV/Excel automation
- SQL for reporting and bulk taxonomy/content operations
- API integrations (e.g., donor CRM, weather APIs, payment processors)
- Automation via WP-CLI, shell scripts, PowerShell, and Zapier-like tools
Tools & Technologies
- Languages: PHP, Python, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, SQL, shell scripts
- Frameworks/Tools: WordPress, Flask, Bootstrap, jQuery, Git
- Systems: Windows, Linux, macOS; Exchange Online; Office 365
- Security: ESET endpoint protection, domain policies, kiosk mode setups
Professional Experience
IT Director / Lead Developer
Biodiversity for a Livable Climate · Cambridge, MA
- Lead the design and evolution of a complex WordPress ecosystem, including custom post types for courses, featured content, publications, and announcements supporting global biodiversity work.
- Build and maintain custom templates, taxonomies, and content workflows using PHP, JavaScript, and WP-CLI to streamline editorial and program operations.
- Develop analytics pipelines using Google Analytics 4 and Python to track outreach impact, email signups, course registrations, and donor journeys.
- Implement custom registration and donation flows integrated with CRM and payment tools, including form validation, coupon code logic, and event reporting.
- Provide strategic IT guidance to leadership and staff on infrastructure, security, and digital tools that support education, outreach, and ecological restoration projects.
Freelance IT Consultant & Software Developer
Independent · Eastern MA / Remote
- Design and implement small to mid-scale web applications and tools for nonprofits, local businesses, and community groups.
- Configure Windows 10/11 public-access machines, kiosk environments, and domain policies to balance usability, security, and maintainability.
- Build data-processing scripts in Python and SQL to automate reporting, deduplication, and analytics for donor and event data.
- Provide remote and on-site troubleshooting across Mac, Windows, and server environments, including backups, antivirus, and shared resource configuration.
Hang Gliding Instructor
Hang Glide New England · New Braintree, MA
- Provide beginner and novice (H1/H2) instruction at one of the premier aerotow sites in the US.
- Emphasize safety, clear communication, and structured progression for new pilots.
Teaching Assistant – CSCI E-33A, Web Programming with Python and JavaScript
Harvard University Extension School · Cambridge, MA
- Led weekly online section meetings and helped students understand core web technologies and frameworks.
- Provided one-on-one support and graded projects based on detailed criteria.
IT Director
Swanee Hunt Alternatives · Cambridge, MA
- Managed Windows, Linux, and macOS servers and workstations, networking, and purchasing for a multi-site foundation with ~100 staff.
- Designed and implemented policies and procedures for the help desk and day-to-day operations.
- Partnered with vendors to deploy network security, Exchange Online, and Office 365 solutions.
- Developed internal applications and automation using SharePoint, SQL, Visual Basic, PowerShell, PHP, HTML, CSS, Perl, and shell scripts.
Senior Software Engineer
Information Dynamics International · Silver Spring, MD
- Developed web-based information collection and retrieval applications in C and Java.
- Installed and configured Linux and Windows database and web servers.
Principal Consultant
Independent · Somerville, MA
- Managed office LANs, Linux email and web servers, and Windows workstations for clients in Boston and Washington, DC.
- Delivered data recovery, application support, and custom information tracking tools.
Computer Specialist
U.S. Small Business Administration · Boston & Washington, DC
- Administered file servers and DOS/Windows workstations for district and regional offices.
- Created loan tracking applications, including design, implementation, documentation, training, and support.
- Developed and taught backup procedures to other district offices.
Volunteering & Community
Penguin Colony Volunteer
New England Aquarium · Boston, MA
- Prepare food, maintain prep areas, and help clean penguin exhibit and support spaces.
- Feed penguins, record intake, and informally answer visitor questions about the colony.
Member & On-the-Water Support
Community Boating, Inc. · Boston, MA
- Provide informal on-the-water instruction and support to other members.
- Participate in seasonal work parties to move and prepare boats and facilities.
Ecological Gardening & Nursery Work
Independent / Local Projects
- Support local gardens, plant nurseries, and restoration projects, including pruning, planting, seeding, and maintenance.
- Collaborate with community groups on biodiversity-focused plantings and education.
Education & Certification
Harvard Extension School · Cambridge, MA
Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree candidate (2011 – Present)
Certifications
- Mobile and Desktop Web Developer / Responsive Web Design – Salem State University (2018)
- Windows Server 2008 R2 MCITP Server Administrator (2012)
Selected Interests
Hang gliding and aviation, native plants and ecological restoration, community education, nature-focused storytelling, and building tools that help people understand and care for the living world.