Building accessible user interfaces and frontend systems for digital experiences
Senior UI Engineer • Web Accessibility Specialist • Educator
I’m Nathan Keeys, a user interface software engineer, web accessibility specialist, and educator with a focus on frontend architecture, design systems, web-based 2D/3D interactions, and accessibility. As a design-driven technologist, I think in systems with a strong focus on inclusivity.
I currently work as an software engineer at Coforma.
Beyond my professional work, I've supported 4 cohorts as an educator at GWU Fullstack Bootcamp, hosted Creative Code workshops at The Collab Lab and Women Who Code (Tokyo), featured a javascript-based digital installation in the CICA Museum's "Over the Structure" 2021 exhibition and have produced and written music for over a decade.
Technical Expertise & Contributions
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, prototyping designs, 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
Developed applications for the VA, CMS, and OPM to digitize manual government workflows, improving operational efficiency.
Digital Anthro, LLC - 03/2017 - Present
Independent Consultant
I teach accessibility focused workshops and partner with startups to help them build accessible software products and services.
CarpeDM Dating - 2019 - 2021
Founding Full-stack Engineer
Designed and developed a web-based member payment portal integrated with CarpeDM’s mobile app.
Accenture Federal Services - 12/2019 - 09/2022
Drupal Developer → Senior React Engineer
Developed websites and applications for multiple government departments.
RP3 Agency - 08/2017 - 09/2019
UI Developer → Creative Technologist
Developed websites and applications for a range of commercial clients.
Feelin' like listening to some music?
Here's some lofi ambient vibes. Take a listen if your inclined!