Curriculum Vitae & Background
Colton S. Zutavern
Education
Texas A&M University
Relevant Completed Coursework: Introduction to Digital Systems Design (ECEN 248 · Grade: A), Electrical Circuit Theory (ECEN 214 · Grade: B), Program Design & Concepts (CSCE 120 · Grade: B), Differential Equations (MATH 308), Topics in Applied Math / Linear Algebra (MATH 311), Newtonian Mechanics (PHYS 206 · Grade: A), Experimental Physics Labs (ENGR 216 / ENGR 217).
In Progress (Fall 2026): Signals and Systems (ECEN 314), Random Signals & Systems (ECEN 303), Electric & Magnetic Fields (ECEN 322), Modern Physics for Engineers (PHYS 222).
Richardson High School
High School Diploma — GPA: 99.26
Relevant Coursework: AP Computer Science Principles, Computer Science 1 Advanced, AP Computer Science, Computer Science 3.
Honors & Organizations: National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Front Ensemble Musician (4 Years).
Technical Skills
Languages & Core Tools
Java (Advanced), Python (Advanced), C / C++ (Foundational), Linux / Shell scripting, Git, Parametric 3D CAD.
Electrical & Digital Design
Digital logic design, circuit analysis & simulation (ECEN 214), sensor interfacing, automotive 12V power distribution, ADC calibration.
Embedded Systems
Raspberry Pi Pico 2 (RP2040), Raspberry Pi 5, SPI, I2C, UART, motor & driver ICs (DRV8876 half-bridges, shift registers).
Mechanical & Prototyping
Full vehicle ground-up restoration, precision mechanical assembly, prototype breadboarding, soldering, tolerance engineering.
Engineering Projects
Aggies Create: Core Memories
Co-Team Lead
- Leading development of a coincident-current magnetic core memory system using Taylor MCORE-1K cores, inspired by Apollo NASA guidance computer memory.
- Engineered multi-line transistor driver architecture utilizing DRV8876 half-bridge drivers, source/sink driver arrays, and 74HCT595 shift register latches.
- Analyzed B-H hysteresis loop dynamics to generate precise 210 mA half-select pulses with microsecond timing windows controlled via an RP2040 Pico 2.
1975 Jeep Cherokee Embedded Pi Dashboard & Restoration
Sole Builder & Restorer
- Engineered custom automotive wiring harness, power distribution, and sensor instrumentation (coolant temp, oil pressure, battery voltage monitoring).
- Developed embedded Linux system on Raspberry Pi 5 with custom Python gauge cluster, automated power-on/halt state machine, and CamillaDSP audio routing.
- Executed full mechanical, structural, and interior restoration from the ground up to modern road reliability standards.
Modular Wooden Shelving System with Magnetic & Dowel Alignment
Sole Inventor
- Independently designed a tool-free rapid-assembly modular shelving system utilizing magnetic locating and removable dowel locking mechanisms.
- Created full parametric 3D CAD models, structural tolerance analyses, and authored complete written provisional patent specifications and claims.
Better Without Wheat Bakery
Founder & Owner
- Founded and operated an independent small business providing certified gluten-free goods catering to individuals with celiac disease.
- Built and maintained company e-commerce website; managed ingredient procurement, commercial recipe scaling, and customer outreach.
Work Experience
FCTR Sports
Order Fulfillment & Operations Assistant
- Picked high-volume inventory orders and trained incoming warehouse employees on standard fulfillment protocols.
- Consulted directly with the CEO to evaluate warehouse routing bottlenecks, implementing workflow updates that enhanced picking throughput.
Residential Remodeling Assistant
Assistant Contractor
- Assisted with structural renovation, electrical fixture installations, and interior finishing on residential properties.
- Collaborated in trade teams to ensure consistent execution on strict client project deadlines.
Royal Nation
Production & Fulfillment Assistant
- Operated commercial thermal press machinery for logo application and maintained quality assurance standards.
- Fulfilled client orders, tracked dispatch inventory, and executed merchandise deliveries using company fleet vehicles.
Certifications & Honors
Technical Certifications: IT Specialist: Java (Score: 880/1000 · Certiport), Unity Certified User: Programmer (Score: 800/1000 · Certiport), Visual Design using Adobe Photoshop (Score: 846/1000 · Certiport), Texas Food Handler License. [View Credentials Page →]
Leadership & Extracurriculars: Front Ensemble Musician (Richardson High School Marching Band, 4 Years, marimba/percussion discipline); National Honor Society volunteer; Mu Alpha Theta; FTC Robotics Tournament Semi-Finalist (middle school competing against high school teams).