Zaid Ahmad | CS Portfolio

About Me

Hi, I'm Zaid Ahmad — a Computer Science student at Carleton University with a passion for creating meaningful software solutions. From developing full-stack web applications to building Arduino-based games, I thrive on turning ideas into functional, impactful projects.

I'm driven by curiosity and continuous learning. Whether it's competing in hackathons, exploring new frameworks, or diving deep into backend architecture, I'm always looking for opportunities to grow as a developer. I believe the best solutions come from combining technical expertise with creative problem-solving.

When I'm not coding, you'll find me exploring Ottawa's coffee scene, watching space documentaries, or tinkering with my development setup. I'm actively seeking internship opportunities where I can contribute to real-world projects, collaborate with talented teams, and make a tangible impact.

🏆
Hackathon Participant

💡
Problem Solver

🚀
Fast Learner

Education

Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)

Expected Graduation: 2028

Carleton University | Ottawa, ON

CGPA: 7.3/12

Relevant Coursework:

Data Structures & Algorithms
Object-Oriented Programming (Java & Python)
C/C++ Programming
Calculus
Linear Algebra

Projects

🏠 Homeless Shelter Finder

CUHacking 2025

Swipeable React Native mobile app that helps users discover local shelters based on location, gender, and amenities. Built to address real-world social impact with an intuitive, user-focused design.

React Native Firebase Node.js Express

Developed swipeable UI with real-time data filtering
Implemented location-based search with Firebase Firestore
Built RESTful API using Node.js and Express
Completed and demoed in under 24 hours at CUHacking

💼 Personal Portfolio Website

Web Development

Designed and deployed a responsive personal portfolio website to showcase projects, skills, and experience with clean UI and interactive elements.

HTML CSS JavaScript

Implemented responsive design with modern frontend practices
Created smooth navigation and interactive user experience
Deployed live at zaidahmad.dev

🧵 Multithreaded C Simulation Game

Systems Programming

Built a multithreaded C simulation utilizing semaphores and synchronization primitives to manage concurrent agents with deadlock prevention and thread coordination.

C POSIX Threads Semaphores Linux

Implemented synchronization primitives for concurrent agent management
Applied deadlock prevention techniques and thread coordination
Utilized memory management best practices in low-level C programming
Developed in Linux environment using virtual machines

Tech Stack

Languages

🐍 Python

☕ Java

💻 C/C++

🟨 JavaScript

📝 HTML/CSS

Frameworks & Technologies

⚛️ React Native

🟢 Node.js

🔥 Flask

📦 Firebase

🔌 Express

📊 Matplotlib

🗄️ MongoDB

Tools & Concepts

🐙 Git/GitHub

🧩 VS Code

🧠 IntelliJ

🐧 Linux

🖥️ Virtual Machines

🎮 Unreal Engine

🎯 Godot

📈 Data Structures

📐 OOP

🔧 Arduino

Experience

Logistics Coordinator — cuHacking (Sept 2025–Present)

Coordinated event logistics for CU Hacking, managing scheduling, room reservations, equipment setup, and on-site operations to ensure a smooth experience for participants.
Collaborated with organizers, sponsors, and volunteers to plan and execute event workflows, resolving logistical issues efficiently during live events.
Oversaw inventory and resource distribution (check-in materials, swag, food, and supplies), maintaining organization and adherence to event timelines.

Chief Petty Officer Second Class — Logistics Chief, RCSCC Falkland (Sept 2018–Jun 2025)

Managed logistics and inventory for over 100 cadets, ensuring readiness and accuracy.
Mentored junior cadets, fostering leadership, discipline, and teamwork.
Led instructional sessions on uniform care and supply protocols.
Demonstrated consistent leadership and organizational skills in a structured military environment.

Hackathon Hacker — CUHacking 2025 (Mar 2025)

Participated in the CUHacking 2025 hackathon, collaborating with a team to build the Homeless Shelter Finder app.
Worked with technologies like React Native, Firebase Firestore, and Node.js to develop an app that allows users to find nearby homeless shelters based on specific criteria.
Focused on backend development and integration of Firebase Firestore for real-time shelter data storage.
Presented and demoed the project to industry mentors and judges at the CUHacking showcase.