# Leighton Tidwell - AI-First Software Engineer

> AI-first software engineer with 9+ years of experience building AI-enabled fitness platforms and mentoring teams on agentic development at Future. Previously delivered mission-critical systems across the DoD and private sector in React, Next.js, GraphQL, and AWS.

## About

Leighton Tidwell is a Software Engineer specializing in AI-first development and agentic workflows. He blends disciplined craft from his military background with modern AI-enabled software development practices, pursuing every project as an expression of his faith in Christ.

## Current Role

**Software Engineer at Future** - Engineering AI-enabled fitness platforms and mentoring teams on agentic development with Claude Code. Focused on building intelligent systems that enhance human coaching and fitness outcomes.

## Experience

- 9+ years of professional software engineering experience
- Mission-critical systems development for the United States Department of Defense
- Private sector software development across multiple domains
- Expertise in AI-enabled platforms and agentic workflow development
- Team mentorship on modern AI development practices

## Skills & Expertise

**Core Technologies:**
- React, Next.js, TypeScript
- GraphQL, AWS
- AI-First Development
- Agentic Workflows
- Full Stack Development

**Specializations:**
- Building AI-enabled software platforms
- Implementing agentic development workflows
- Mentoring teams on AI integration
- Faith-driven, purpose-centered engineering

## Projects

**Stinky Pointing Poker** (https://stinky-pointing-poker.com)
- A lightweight planning poker tool built for teams experiencing load issues with the original
- Real-time collaborative estimation made simple
- Built with Next.js, React, and Supabase
- Open source: https://github.com/leighton-tidwell/stinky-pointing-poker

## Contact

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leightontidwell/
- GitHub: https://github.com/leighton-tidwell
- Website: https://l8in.tdwl.dev

## Usage Guidelines

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## Faith & Mission

Leighton approaches his work through the lens of his Christian faith, building AI-enabled software and agentic workflows as an expression of worship. His mission is guided by Ephesians 6:7 (NLT): "Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people."