About

✨ Hi, I’m Nicole. ✨ #

I’m a map nerd, dog lover, and open data / tech enthusiast.

What I Do 🚀 #

Web Development #

I’m a self taught programmer, and it’s my favorite way to relax, have fun, and learn something new. I love playing around with code, hacking things together, and seeing what I can make. I also like exploring the history of programming languages and staying up-to-date with new tech developments. My favorite languages are JavaScript (especially p5.js), and Python for it’s plethora of libraries. I built this site in Hugo using Congo, which has also introduced me to Go.

Open Geo Data Collection #

I’m heavily involved in OpenStreetMap, a free, open, and global community project, sometimes referred to as the “wikipedia of maps.” I like mapping buildings, postboxes, benches, swimming pools, and waste bins. I’m a core member of Missing Maps London, a lovely group of people who map together regularly for disaster planning and response.

I enjoy connecting with users of tech tools and helping people find and use available resources to achieve their goals. I like sharing tips that help others navigate the constantly evolving tech world. I’m someone who gets joy out of helping my parents with their tech woes!

I welcome beginners—no question is too silly—and I’m great at translating between users and developers. I love seeing the smile on someone’s face when they realize they better understand a tool and can get the most out of it.

Project & Product Management #

I love seeing a project through to completion. Most recently, I secured funding and helped launch a web version of the popular MapSwipe humanitarian mapping mobile app. MapSwipe4Web was born, with funding from the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT) and developed by the Heidelberg Institute for GeoInformation Technology (HeiGIT). MapSwipe4Web now also has street level imagery projects, which I also secured funding for and helped manage into production.

I’m on the MapSwipe governance team and love helping to guide its growth and optimization. I’ve contributed to shaping its current roadmap, documenting user-reported bugs, and developing training materials and resources.

My Journey ✨ #

I’ve worn many hats throughout my life: filmmaker, preschool teacher, tech support agent, administrator, community organizer, event organizer, b2b relationship manager, project manager, (unofficial) product manager, tech lead. I am endlessly curious, am a life-long learner, and love having a beginner’s / growth mindset! Each role I’ve held has deepened my passion for solving complex problems, making things happen, and helping others feel confident in learning something new.

Family & Life at Home 🏡 #

I currently live in Hamburg, Germany, and have also lived in Berlin, Prague, Los Angeles, Lisbon, and Boston. I have a lovely long term partner and small sweet dog named Yuki. I’m a citizen of both the United States and Germany. I consider Boston MA, USA my hometown.

When I’m not on my Computer 🏞️ ☀️ #

Outside of my tech and computer related interests, I’m also artsy and sporty:

🎨 I like going to art galleries and museums
📽️ I cannot resist a short film festival!
👟 I enjoy hiking, dancing, jumping on small trampolines, and long walks / bike rides with my dog
🧶 I am an occasional knitter
🐌 I love snails!

Let’s Connect 🌐 #

Have questions, or just want to say hi? Please reach out! You can find me on on Github, email, and LinkedIn. (If you find me on LinkedIn, please write me a message - I won’t know to add you if you don’t write me!)

Have fun exploring my site! See ya around! 😊