Phoenix Daak
Computer Science & Engineering
Phoenix Daak

Computer Science & Engineering

Phoenix Daak

Computer Science & Engineering student at J.B. Speed School of Engineering with hands-on experience in software development, machine learning, and enterprise application development. I've contributed through co-op roles at Fort Knox HRC and Freudenberg Medical, and I'm driven by a passion for building intelligent, high-impact technology.

PythonTypeScriptReactNext.jsMachine LearningDeep LearningTensorFlowPowerApps

Education

Academic background

Meade County High School Logo

Secondary Education

Meade County High School

  • Built a strong foundation in mathematics, science, and technology.
  • Explored civil and mechanical engineering disciplines.
  • Participated in extracurricular activities including varsity basketball and tennis.
J.B. Speed School of Engineering Logo

B.S. · Computer Science & Engineering

J.B. Speed School of Engineering

  • Deepened knowledge in software development, artificial intelligence, and web technologies.
  • Completed multiple co-op rotations for hands-on technical and professional development.
J.B. Speed School of Engineering Logo

M.E. · Computer Science & Engineering

J.B. Speed School of Engineering

  • Pursuing a Master of Engineering degree with a focus on advanced topics in computer science and engineering.
  • Conducting graduate-level research in machine learning, data analysis, and predictive modeling.
J.B. Speed School of Engineering Logo

Certificate · Data Science

J.B. Speed School of Engineering

  • Completing a Data Science certificate alongside graduate studies, covering statistical modeling, data visualization, and applied machine learning.

Projects

Selected work

Infrared and RGB Image Processing

  • Utilized Python and pretrained deep learning models (VGG16) to process and classify infrared and RGB images for autonomous vehicle applications.
  • Integrated TensorFlow and Keras with regularization and data augmentation techniques to improve model accuracy and generalization.
PythonTensorFlowKerasDeep LearningComputer Vision

Generative Algorithms for NP-Complete Problems

  • Developed evolutionary algorithms using fitness functions to find near-optimal solutions to the Traveling Salesman and Chinese Postman problems.
  • Presented findings in a comprehensive research paper highlighting the effectiveness of genetic strategies for NP-Complete challenges.
PythonAlgorithmsOptimizationResearch

Web Development Projects

  • Replicated a Reddit-style platform with post creation, commenting, and upvoting using React, Next.js, Tailwind CSS, and MongoDB.
  • Built this personal portfolio website from the ground up to showcase projects, experience, and skills.
ReactNext.jsTypeScriptTailwind CSSMongoDB

Work Experience

Professional history

J.B. Speed School of Engineering — ISE Department

Graduate Research Assistant

  • Conducting research through the Industrial Systems Engineering department in partnership with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC).
  • Applying machine learning and statistical modeling techniques to develop predictive models for transportation infrastructure and operations.
  • Performing data analysis on large transportation datasets to identify trends, anomalies, and opportunities for data-driven decision making.
Machine LearningData AnalysisPredictive ModelingPythonKYTC

PSI Paving Inc.

Estimator / Quantity Surveyor

  • Produced accurate cost estimates for construction projects by interpreting blueprints, specifications, and project documentation.
  • Built PowerApps applications to manage material and trucking data, streamlining communication between office staff and field estimators.
PowerAppsCost EstimationConstruction

Fort Knox HRC

Computer Engineer Trainee — Co-op II

  • Developed PowerApps applications for data retrieval and analysis supporting multiple operations within the Human Resources Command.
  • Practiced agile development methodologies while collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver software solutions to stakeholders.
  • Participated in weekly briefings to present project updates and incorporate feedback from functional users.
PowerAppsAgileData Analysis

Freudenberg Medical

Machine and Tooling Design — Co-op I

  • Designed and prototyped machine components using SolidWorks CAD to improve manufacturing safety around razor blade usage on the production floor.
  • Collaborated with the Health and Safety Coordinator to ensure designs met all required protocols and standards.
  • Attended daily team meetings to review progress and resolve design challenges.
SolidWorksCADMechanical Design

Speed School of Engineering

Professional Development Program

  • Completed 100+ hours of professional development focused on technical skills, leadership, and career readiness for engineering students.
LeadershipProfessional Development

Get In Touch

Let's connect

Whether you want to collaborate on a project, discuss an opportunity, or just say hello — feel free to reach out through any of the channels below.