Hi, I'm Max Halanen

Computer Scientist & Embedded Developer

Passionate about embedded systems, IoT development, and systems engineering. Currently pursuing Computer Science at Carleton University with a focus in software engineering.

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Max Halanen

About Me

I'm a third year Computer Science student at Carleton University with a passion for embedded systems, IoT technology, and systems engineering. My experience ranges from microcontroller programming to large-scale network automation and deployment systems.

Currently working as an Embedded Software Developer at General Dynamics Mission Systems Canada, I specialize in embedded software development for mission-critical systems, cross-network automation, and embedded device development. My academic background combined with hands-on industry experience has provided me with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in embedded development and systems engineering.

Education

Bachelor of Computer Science Honors

Carleton University • Expected Graduation: April 2027

GPA: 3.84 • Ottawa, ON

Relevant Courses: Abstract Data Types, Database Management, Applied Cryptography, Systems Programming

3.84

GPA

12

Months Experience

Current Position

Embedded Software Developer - Internship

General Dynamics (GDMS-C)

Sep 2025 - Present • Ottawa, ON
  • Currently working on embedded software development for mission-critical systems.

Previous Experience

Systems Engineer - Internship

General Dynamics (GDMS-C)

Sep 2024 - Sep 2025 • Ottawa, ON
  • Developed router automation app that outperformed a competing in-development solution, saving the company thousands in expected development costs.
  • Built RAG chain LLM to increase lab efficiency by assisting in document search and retrieval processes.
  • Programmed a custom Wireshark packet dissector to support debugging and analysis.
  • Created cross-network remote installer deploying software across hundreds of machines using PowerShell and WinRM.
  • Automated media file auditing system, comparing tens of thousands of files against specification spreadsheets.

Programming Instructor

Geek Education

Sep 2021 - Dec 2021 • Remote
  • Taught Python and Scratch programming to 20+ students, developing curriculum and interactive coding exercises.
  • Mentored students in computational thinking, problem-solving, and software development best practices.
  • Created engaging project-based learning experiences including games, animations, and interactive applications.
  • Adapted teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles and skill levels across age groups.

Skills & Technologies

Programming Languages

C/C++
Python
x86 Assembly
Java
JavaScript
SQLite/PostgreSQL
PowerShell
Bash

Embedded & Hardware

STM32
ESP32
Arduino
I2C
SPI
UART
GPS
TFT LCD
SD Card

Tools & Frameworks

Git
Linux
Wireshark
ESXi/vSphere
gdb
Postman
LwIP

Featured Projects

STM32 IoT Thermostat

STM32 IoT Thermostat System

IoT thermostat using STM32H5 with BMP180 sensor for temperature, pressure, and altitude monitoring. Implemented UDP server using LwIP stack to transmit sensor data to HTTP server on home lab, accessible globally through Tailscale VPN network.

STM32H5 C LwIP UDP BMP180
Code
Handheld GPS Device

Handheld GPS Prototype

Handheld GPS navigation device using an ESP32 to display maps in real time based on user location. Maps loaded from SD card to TFT LCD over SPI, integrated a magnetometer via I2C for compass heading (direntionality).

ESP32 C/C++ GPS I2C SPI UART
Code
Arch Linux Home Lab

Arch Linux Home Lab

Arch Linux home lab linked to the internet via a VNC server and Tailscale VPN. The server helps maintain a consistent development environment across different machines, as well as run network applications from a centralized computer (dotfiles on GitHub).

Arch Linux Networking dotfiles Neovim Lua VNC Tailscale/VPN
Code

Get In Touch

Let's Connect

I'm always interested in new opportunities and collaborations. Feel free to reach out!

maxhalanen@cmail.carleton.ca
416-274-9660
Ottawa, ON