Kebson St Charles

Kebson St Charles

AI/ML Engineer | Data Scientist | Software Developer

Machine Learning Deep Learning Data Science NLP Computer Vision
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About Me

Kebson St Charles
Caltech AI/ML Graduate MS Data Analytics BS Computer Science

I'm a passionate AI/ML Engineer and Data Scientist with a unique blend of military discipline, software engineering expertise, and cutting-edge AI knowledge. Currently serving as a Software Engineer II while actively transitioning into the AI field.

My journey spans from military service to homeland security, and now to the exciting world of artificial intelligence. I hold a BS in Computer Science and an MS in Data Analytics, and have completed an AI/ML Bootcamp at Caltech, where I mastered the latest techniques in machine learning, deep learning, and AI applications.

I specialize in building intelligent systems that solve real-world problems, from predictive analytics that improve government operations to conversational AI that enhances user experiences. My projects demonstrate proficiency in Python, TensorFlow, NLP, computer vision, and cloud-based AI solutions.

What drives me: The intersection of data, intelligence, and impact. I'm passionate about leveraging AI to create solutions that matter, whether it's optimizing city operations, automating complex workflows, or building the next generation of intelligent applications.

AI Implementation Strategy

Third-Party AI Solutions

Leverage proven APIs and services when:

  • Rapid deployment is crucial
  • Cost-effective for standard use cases
  • Well-established, proven accuracy
  • Continuous improvements by vendor

Examples: OpenAI for conversational AI, Azure for document processing

Custom Model Development

Build proprietary models when:

  • Competitive advantage is needed
  • Domain-specific requirements
  • Data privacy/security concerns
  • Long-term cost efficiency

Examples: Municipal permit prediction, specialized document classification

Hybrid Approach

Combine both strategies to:

  • Optimize cost and performance
  • Reduce time to market
  • Maintain flexibility
  • Scale effectively

My Approach: Start with third-party, customize where differentiation matters

Decision Framework

Every AI implementation decision is driven by three key factors: Business Value, Cost Efficiency, and Technical Feasibility. I analyze these factors to recommend the optimal approach for each specific use case.

Featured AI/ML Projects

Showcasing practical applications of artificial intelligence and machine learning

Strategic AI Implementation Philosophy

I leverage both third-party AI solutions and custom model development based on business needs, cost-effectiveness, and functional requirements. My approach prioritizes rapid deployment with proven APIs while building custom solutions when competitive advantage or specific functionality demands it.

Intelligent Permit Processing System

Developed a hybrid AI system combining Azure AI Services for document processing with custom ML models for permit prediction. Strategic decision: Used Azure Cognitive Services for OCR (cost-effective, proven accuracy) while building custom ensemble models for domain-specific predictions.

Azure AI Services Custom ML Models Python Scikit-learn

Impact: 35% efficiency improvement, 90% prediction accuracy

Strategy: Third-party for commoditized tasks, custom for competitive advantage

Multi-Modal AI Assistant Platform

Built intelligent chatbots using OpenAI GPT-4 and Claude AI APIs for natural conversation, while integrating Azure Copilot for code generation. Strategic choice: Leveraged best-in-class third-party models rather than training custom LLMs due to cost and complexity.

OpenAI API Claude AI Azure Copilot Custom Orchestration

Impact: 85%+ user satisfaction, 60% faster development cycles

Strategy: API-first approach for LLMs, custom logic for business workflows

Predictive Analytics Dashboard

Created ML-powered dashboards using Power BI's built-in AI features combined with custom Python models. Strategic approach: Used Power BI's AutoML for rapid prototyping, then developed custom time series models for better domain-specific accuracy.

Power BI AI Custom Time Series Azure ML Studio Prophet/ARIMA

Impact: 90% prediction accuracy, faster business insights

Strategy: Rapid prototyping with built-in tools, custom models for precision

AI-Accelerated Development Workflow

Integrated Cursor AI and GitHub Copilot into development workflows, while building custom code review and quality assurance models. Cost analysis showed 70% productivity gains justified premium tool costs vs. building internal code generation.

Cursor AI GitHub Copilot Custom QA Models Workflow Automation

Impact: 70% faster development, improved code quality

Strategy: Premium tools for core productivity, custom models for quality control

Document Intelligence System

Implemented Azure Document Intelligence for standard document types, with custom computer vision models for specialized municipal forms. Hybrid approach balanced cost (Azure's per-page pricing) with accuracy for unique document types.

Azure Document Intelligence Custom CNN Models OCR Optimization TensorFlow

Impact: 40% reduction in manual processing, 95% accuracy

Strategy: Third-party for standard docs, custom models for specialized forms

Educational AI Assistant

Combined ChatGPT API for conversational abilities with custom educational content models and Alexa Skills. Business case: Leveraged OpenAI's conversational AI while maintaining control over educational content and learning paths.

ChatGPT API Alexa Skills Custom Content Models Unity Integration

Impact: Enhanced student engagement, accessible learning

Strategy: API for conversation, custom models for educational expertise

AI/ML Technical Expertise

Machine Learning & AI

Deep Learning (TensorFlow/PyTorch) 90%
Machine Learning Algorithms 95%
Computer Vision 85%
Natural Language Processing 88%

Programming & Frameworks

Python (Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn) 95%
TensorFlow/Keras 88%
SQL & Database Optimization 92%
R for Statistical Analysis 80%

Cloud & MLOps (Microsoft Focus)

  • Azure Machine Learning Studio & AutoML
  • Azure AI Services & Cognitive Services
  • Azure Data Factory & Synapse Analytics
  • Azure DevOps for ML Pipeline CI/CD
  • Azure Container Instances & Kubernetes
  • Power BI with Embedded ML Models
  • Azure ML Model Deployment & Monitoring

Third-Party AI Integration

  • OpenAI API (GPT-4, GPT-3.5, Embeddings)
  • Claude AI & Anthropic Models
  • Azure Copilot & GitHub Copilot
  • Cursor AI for Development Acceleration
  • Azure Cognitive Services
  • ChatGPT Enterprise Integration
  • Cost Optimization & API Management

Data Science & Analytics

  • Statistical Modeling & Hypothesis Testing
  • Time Series Forecasting
  • A/B Testing & Experimentation
  • Feature Engineering
  • Data Visualization (Power BI, Plotly)
  • ETL/ELT Pipeline Development
  • Business Intelligence

Development Tools

  • Jupyter Notebooks & VS Code
  • Cursor AI for Code Generation
  • Git & GitHub for Version Control
  • Azure Data Studio
  • Databricks
  • Apache Spark for Big Data
  • API Development & Integration

Professional Experience

Software Engineer II (AI/ML Focus)

City of Weston, FL | September 2024 - Present

  • Led strategic AI implementation decisions, choosing between Azure AI Services vs. custom models based on cost-benefit analysis
  • Integrated Azure Copilot and Claude AI for development acceleration, achieving 70% faster code generation
  • Deployed hybrid AI systems combining OpenAI API for conversational interfaces with custom ML models for domain-specific predictions
  • Implemented document processing using Azure Document Intelligence (cost-effective) and custom CNN models (specialized forms)
  • Built intelligent workflows using Cursor AI for development and ChatGPT for automated documentation
  • Achieved 35% efficiency improvement through strategic third-party API usage combined with proprietary algorithms

AI/ML Solutions Architect (Freelance)

August 2024 - Present

  • Designed AI solution architectures balancing third-party APIs with custom models based on client budget and requirements
  • Delivered rapid prototypes using OpenAI and Claude APIs, then optimized with custom models where ROI justified development costs
  • Conducted build vs. buy analyses for multiple clients, saving average of 40% on AI implementation costs
  • Built production chatbots using GPT-4 API with custom fine-tuning, achieving 85%+ satisfaction at 60% lower cost than fully custom solutions
  • Implemented cost-monitoring and API optimization strategies, reducing third-party AI expenses by 30-50%
  • Mentored teams on strategic AI tool selection and hybrid implementation approaches

Data Scientist & Application Support Specialist

City of Weston, FL | May 2021 - September 2024

  • Provided comprehensive support for Tyler and Accela automation systems, helping government users and citizens navigate municipal processes
  • Developed and maintained SQL databases, SSRS reports, and Power BI dashboards for city departments and executive leadership
  • Created custom JavaScript scripts and made website modifications to enhance user experience and functionality
  • Collaborated with department heads to analyze existing workflows and identify automation opportunities within Accela platform
  • Created new Accela applications and configurations to streamline municipal processes and improve citizen services
  • Led training classes and workshops to educate city staff on application processes and system optimization
  • Implemented data-driven solutions that improved permit processing efficiency by 35% through workflow automation
  • Automated financial reporting processes using SQL and SSRS, reducing manual processing time by 40% for city departments
  • Optimized database queries and reporting infrastructure, improving Power BI dashboard performance by 60%

Immersive Analyst

Nova Southeastern University, Davie, FL | December 2018 - December 2020

  • Conducted cutting-edge research in immersive technologies, AI, and educational applications
  • Developed AI-powered educational tools using Unity, AR/VR, and voice recognition technologies
  • Built Alexa Skills with NLP capabilities to enhance student learning experiences
  • Published research on AI applications in education and presented findings at academic conferences
  • Collaborated with faculty to integrate AI tools into curriculum and research methodologies
  • Created data analytics frameworks to measure educational outcome improvements

Transportation Security Officer (TSO)

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) | 2010 - 2014

  • Maintained federal security protocols and procedures in high-volume airport environment
  • Operated advanced screening technology and security equipment with precision
  • Applied analytical thinking and pattern recognition skills for threat detection
  • Demonstrated attention to detail and adherence to strict federal compliance standards
  • Collaborated effectively in team environments under pressure and time constraints
  • Developed strong communication skills working with diverse populations

Military Service

U.S. Army | Army Reserve (42A) & Active Duty (19K) | 2001 - 2010

  • Army Reserve - Human Resources Specialist (42A): Managed personnel data systems and administrative operations
  • Active Army - Armor Crewman (19K): Operated complex military equipment and systems
  • Developed leadership, discipline, and problem-solving skills in high-pressure environments
  • Gained experience with advanced technology systems and data management
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in diverse, multicultural teams
  • Maintained security clearance and handled sensitive information with integrity
  • Applied systematic thinking and attention to detail in mission-critical operations

Education & Certifications

🎓 California Institute of Technology

AI/ML Bootcamp (Completed)

Advanced coursework in:

  • Deep Learning & Neural Networks
  • Computer Vision & Image Processing
  • Natural Language Processing
  • Reinforcement Learning
  • MLOps & Model Deployment

🎓 Southern New Hampshire University

Master of Science, Data Analytics

Specialized in:

  • Predictive Modeling & Statistical Analysis
  • Business Intelligence & Decision Science
  • Data Mining & Machine Learning
  • Big Data Analytics

🎓 Nova Southeastern University

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Strong Foundation in Core Computer Science Principles

Key coursework relevant to AI/ML:

  • Algorithm Design & Analysis
  • Data Structures & Database Systems
  • Discrete Mathematics & Linear Algebra
  • Probability and Statistics
  • Numerical Analysis
  • Software Engineering

Professional Certifications & Training

Continuous learning and professional development in AI/ML technologies

Caltech AI/ML Bootcamp Certifications

Machine Learning Engineer

California Institute of Technology

Advanced ML algorithms & model deployment

Deep Learning Specialist

California Institute of Technology

Neural networks & deep learning architectures

Data Science Professional

California Institute of Technology

Statistical analysis & predictive modeling

AI/ML Programming

California Institute of Technology

Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch implementation

Additional Professional Training

Microsoft Azure AI
  • Azure Machine Learning Studio
  • Azure Cognitive Services
  • Azure AI Document Intelligence
Data Engineering
  • SQL Server & Azure SQL
  • Power BI Advanced Analytics
  • ETL/ELT Pipeline Development
AI Implementation
  • OpenAI API Integration
  • Claude AI & Anthropic Models
  • Cursor AI Development Tools

Continuous Learning Commitment

Staying current with rapidly evolving AI/ML technologies through ongoing education, hands-on projects, and industry best practices. Currently expanding expertise in generative AI, large language models, and advanced MLOps practices.

Let's Build the Future with AI

Ready to discuss AI/ML opportunities or collaborate on innovative projects?

Reach out at kebsonstcharles@gmail.com

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