I build user interfaces and frontend systems for web and mobile applications
Frontend Engineer • Creative Technologist • Accessibility Specialist
I’m Nathan Keeys, a Frontend Engineer, Creative Technologist and Educator with a focus on UX, accessibility, frontend architecture, and api integration and sound design for web and mobile products, services and experiences. As an engineer with a design background, I think in systems with a strong focus on user experience and usability.
I currently work as an software engineer at Coforma.
Beyond my professional work, I've supported 4 cohorts as a TA at GWU Fullstack Bootcamp, hosted Creative Code workshops at The Collab Lab and Women Who Code (Tokyo), started a consultancy called Digital Anthro, LLC, featured a javascript-based digital installation in the CICA Museum's "Over the Structure" 2021 exhibition and have produced and songwritten music for over a decade.
What I Do
Design to Development
As an engineer with a design background, I've supported both teams, effectively communicating implementation logic to designers, converting design specs to functional components, and seeing usability and a11y from both perspectives.
Frontend Architecture & API Integration
I help teams build complex frontend systems utilizing React, Typescript, Next.js and other frontend, testing and automation tools. Additionally, I engage in cross-functional collaboration with backend engineers to support API integrations and data handling.
Accessibility & Inclusive Focused
Usability and accessibility are legally and ethically core essentials for all digital products. I have domain knowledge of a11y compliance, universal design and inclusive design which I take in account when building or advising UI/UX solutions.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Collaboration is always eye opening for me. I enjoy working with people from diverse backgrounds and learning from them. Whether it's working with backend devs, designers, devOps or strategists, I make it a priority to listen and produce constructive input.
Domain Knowledge
Healthcare, Civic Tech, Advertising, Tech, and Cultural Institutions.
Coforma - 09/2022 - Present
Frontend Software Engineer
Built applications for VA, CMS and OPM to help improve working processes and increase efficiency.
Digital Anthro, LLC - 03/2017 - Present
Owner + Creative Technologist + Educator
I help digital agencies and startups build accessible user experiences for web and mobile.
CarpeDM Dating - 2019 - 2021
Founding Full-stack Engineer
Designed and built a web-based member payment portal that integrated with CarpeDM's mobile app.
Accenture Federal Services - 12/2019 - 09/2022
Frontend Software Engineer
Built websites and applications for various government departments.
RP3 Agency - 08/2017 - 09/2019
Creative Technologist
Built websites and applications for various government departments.
Frontend/Accessibility Services for Digital Agencies & Startups
Retainer-based frontend and accessibility support for digital agencies and startups.
Advisory
Accessibility & Usability Review Retainer
duration: Monthly
description:I provide comprehensive accessibility and usability evaluations for websites and web/mobile applications. I audit, test, identify issues, and document processes to maintain accessibility capabilities and compliance - WCAG 2.2 AA standards. I search for cognitive, visual, auditory and motor accessibility barriers to ensure an inclusive user experience for all users.
pricing: Contact for details
Remediation
Accessibility Remediation Retainer
duration: Monthly / Ongoing
description:Accessibility should be implemented early during the design and development phases. Unfortunately, fast deadlines and a disregard for inclusivity can push or eliminate accessibility from the scope of work. For projects lacking a11y features, I provide fixes, improvements and prevention tactics to avoid future tech debt and user frustration.
pricing: Contact for details
Creative Tech
Inclusive Immersive Strategy Retainer
duration: 2 - 3 months
description:Ongoing strategic guidance and rapid prototyping for teams building accessible, interactive digital experiences. I provide accessibility oversight, frontend architecture direction, UX validation, and proof-of-concept development for immersive web technologies such as 3D, AR, and VR.
pricing: Contact for details
Workshop
Accessibility & Usability Workshop
duration: half-day or full-day session
description:A hands-on workshop designed to help teams understand, evaluate, and improve the accessibility and usability of digital experiences and products. This session equips teams with practical frameworks, WCAG guidance (2.2 AA), and actionable improvements tailored to their project needs.
pricing: Contact for details
Feelin' like listening to some music?
Here's some moody R&B vibes. Take a listen if your inclined!