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 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
Frontend Lead Advisory Retainer
duration: Ongoing / Monthly
description:Senior frontend guidance on technical, accessibility, and architectural decisions while maintaining quick turnaround timeframes. This can include async reviews of client specs, design files, PRs, and tooling recommendations.
pricing: Contact for details
Audit
Accessibility Audit & Monitoring Retainer
duration: Monthly
description:WCAG 2.1/2.2 audits, manual + automated testing, issue prioritization, QA of new features, and documentation for handoff.
pricing: Contact for details
Remediation
Accessibility Remediation Retainer
duration: Monthly / Ongoing
description:I provide hands-on accessibility fixes and improvements, so your core team can stay focused on delivering main product features while accessibility issues are addressed.
pricing: Contact for details
Strategy & Dev
Inclusive Immersive Retainer
duration: Monthly / Ongoing
description:There are many videos, audio and 3D features on web and mobile that dont work for all users. I provide strategy and implementation around building inclusive immersive features for web and mobile experiences.
pricing: Contact for details
Feelin' like listening to some music?
Here's some moody R&B vibes. Take a listen if your inclined!