Hi, I'm Heather

I'm a front-end engineer, a people-centered leader, and a friendly curmudgeon.

As an engineer ...

I've been writing front-end code since 1997. I was a weird kid.

I write a lot of Javascript, and I have strong opinions about CSS. I believe the cascade is a feature, not a bug.

I've worked with every CMS under the sun and have nuanced opinions about when you need a CMS vs. a static site. (GitHub is not a CMS, no matter how much Decap would like to tell you it is.)

I build with accessibility in mind, specifically Section 508 compliance.

I do my best work hand-in-hand with UX researchers and product designers.

As a leader ...

I believe the most important work a leader can do is invest in building teams. Good teams, regardless of position on the org chart:

• trust each other enough to give honest feedback
• ask questions instead of making assumptions
• work in ways mindful of others who will interface with their work product (other teams, the public, the client, their future selves)
• have enough skills overlap that no one is working in a silo
• have enough skills variety that everyone can learn something new

My job as a leader is to create an environment in which my teams can do good work, my peers and leaders have the information they need, and my organization can successfully deliver on its promises.

As a friendly curmudgeon ...

"You're the friendliest curmudgeon I've ever met" is one of the greatest compliments a client has ever paid me. I will always shoot straight with you, kindly but directly. I believe in strong opinions loosely held. I believe in honest feedback delivered quickly and with grace.

And I believe there is always room for me to learn, listen, and evolve -- even if you're trying to convince me that utility-first CSS is a good idea.