About
Self-employed IT contractor and BSc Computing & IT with Networking graduate with hands-on experience in web development, networking technologies, and digital solutions. Proven ability to deliver full-stack applications, manage infrastructure, and support clients across a range of technical disciplines. Adept at working independently and collaborating with stakeholders to deliver effective, accessible digital solutions.
Skills
Experience
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Self-Employed IT Contractor
2026 - Present
Providing freelance IT consultancy, web development, and technical support services to clients. Delivering bespoke web development projects using WordPress, providing IT consultancy and technical support to small businesses and individuals, managing client relationships, and maintaining ongoing support agreements.
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IT Technical Support Specialist (Volunteer) - Angus
Council
January 2023 - 2026
Provided comprehensive technical support to community members, improving digital literacy and helping residents access essential online services. Supported 10+ individuals weekly with mobile devices, tablets, and computers; assisted clients with online account creation for banking, healthcare, and government services; delivered training on account management and digital communication tools.
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Web Developer (Volunteer) - Local Organisations
March 2022 - Present
Designed and developed professional websites for community organisations, with a focus on user experience and accessibility. Delivered responsive websites implementing modern web standards including WCAG accessibility guidelines, collaborating with stakeholders to define requirements and providing ongoing maintenance post-launch.
Portfolio
- Holyrood Church, Carnoustie Designed and built a WordPress website for a local parish church
- Carnoustie Men's & Women's Shed Developed a WordPress site for a local community organisation
- St Mary the Virgin, Arbroath Created a WordPress website for a local church community
Projects
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Network Packet Analyser - Final Year Project
2024 - 2025
Full-stack web application built with React and Django. An educational tool that analyses network packet capture files and presents detailed metadata via interactive graphs and charts, designed to help networking students grasp core concepts intuitively.
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Home Laboratory Network
Ongoing
Designed and implemented a Linux-based home lab for learning and testing networking, virtualisation, and systems administration. Features a multi-VLAN network with advanced security configurations, Docker containerisation for service deployment, and automated backup and monitoring pipelines.
- Personal Websites A curated collection of websites I have built
Networking & Certifications
I have completed several courses through Cisco NetAcad with verified digital badges available below. I also run a self-managed home lab on Linux for hands-on practice with networking, server administration, virtualisation, and security concepts.
Education
- BSc (Hons) Computing & IT with Networking The Open University, UK - 2021-2025
- HND Health Sciences The Open University, UK - 2019-2021
- Scottish Higher Grades Maths, Physics, English, Technical Drawing, History
Availability
Available immediately for new projects, contracts, or opportunities in web development, IT support, or networking roles. If you have a project you think I would be a good fit for, I would be glad to hear from you.
Contact
Reach me by email at stuart@stuartsm.com.
Get in Touch