Leonardo Casillas

Skills

Software Engineering & Development:

- SDLC, Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), UML, SOLID Principles, Testing Programming Languages:
- Java, C++, C#, Python, JavaScript, PHP, HTML5, CSS3 Frameworks & Tools:
- ASP.NET MVC, Spring Boot, Xamarin, Android Studio Databases:
- MySQL, Oracle SQL, MongoDB Web & Mobile Development:
- REST APIs, Native Android, Cross-platform Mobile Apps Project Tools:
- Git, GitHub, Jira, Trello, CI/CD, TDD
- NetBeans, Eclipse and Visual Studio

About

With a robust academic background and over 18 years of blended experience across higher education and professional software development, I have cultivated a strong passion for empowering students with both theoretical understanding and practical competencies necessary to succeed in the evolving landscape of computing.

Throughout my career, I have taught and developed computing modules ranging from Level 2 to Level 6, including Software Engineering, Object-Oriented Programming, Advanced Web Development, Cyber Security, Cloud Computing, and Mobile Application Development. I take pride in delivering high-quality teaching that aligns with current industry standards and best pedagogical practices. My teaching philosophy is rooted in inclusiveness, active engagement, and continuous adaptation to new educational technologies and learner needs.

In my roles at The Trafford College Group and Sheffield Hallam University at Stockport College, I have supervised dissertation projects, led academic innovations in course delivery, and worked collaboratively across departments to enhance curriculum structure. I routinely incorporate real-world case studies, agile project management frameworks, and hands-on programming challenges using languages such as Java, C++, C#, and Python. This integrated approach ensures students graduate not only with academic excellence but also with industry-ready portfolios and confidence.
Beyond academia, I founded CASILLAS CONSULTANCY LTD to stay immersed in the practical dimensions of software engineering. My consultancy work spans software architecture, full-stack development, and digital training, further enriching the content and perspective I bring into the classroom. These experiences also allow me to bridge the academic industry divide by exposing students to emerging trends, real-life problem solving, and employer expectations.
I am deeply committed to advancing student outcomes, supporting at-risk learners, and promoting digital inclusivity. I have a proven track record of mentoring students from diverse backgrounds and guiding them toward careers in technology, research, and entrepreneurship. My contributions to program design have been recognized for innovation and relevance, particularly in areas of ethical hacking, mobile computing, and cloud architecture.

I hold an MSc in Advanced Computing and a Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training, which have equipped me with both the technical depth and instructional versatility to excel in a higher education environment. I am confident in my ability to contribute to your department's teaching excellence, student engagement, and curriculum innovation initiatives.

I would welcome the opportunity to contribute my expertise, enthusiasm, and student-centered teaching approach to your academic team.