Ethan Cardenas

Network Engineer | Systems Programmer | CCNA Certified

About Me

Hello! I am currently studying at George Brown College. I have a strong interest in computer networking and hold a CCNA certification. Beyond networking, I’m passionate about computers — especially older UNIX systems and Xorg-based environments. Outside of technology, I am studying Japanese, enjoy visual/light novels, and enjoy working on cars.

 

I enjoy building things from scratch and exploring low-level software. I’m currently learning C, working on my own window manager inspired by retro Unix WMs, and experimenting with OpenGL. Some of my recent work includes a Julia set fractal in OpenGL.

 

I’m also exploring network programming. My GitHub includes a basic HTTPserver, a simple FTP server, and more network-related projects in C.

Resume

Education

George Brown College

Computer Systems Technology / Network Engineering (Current)

Technical Skills

  • Programming Languages: C, Python, Shell Scripting
  • Networking: TCP/IP, HTTP/HTTPS, FTP, Network Programming, Cisco IOS
  • Systems: Unix/Linux, X Window System, Xlib programming, Window Managers
  • Graphics: OpenGL, Graphics Programming
  • Tools: Git, GCC, Make, xxd, vim

Certifications

  • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Areas of Interest

  • Network Protocol Implementation
  • Systems Programming & Low-Level Development
  • Unix System Architecture
  • Graphics Programming & Visualization
  • Legacy Computing Systems

Projects & Work Samples

Custom Window Manager

A minimal window manager written in C, inspired by classic Unix window managers. Based on pwm by Tuomo Valkonen, patched with Xft support, compositor support, and EWMH spec implementations.

C X11/Xorg Unix
View Repository →

Fractal Generation Engine

GPU-accelerated fractal renderer using OpenGL. Implements julia set algorithms with real-time zoom and anti-aliasing capabilities.

C OpenGL GLSL
View Repository →

HTTP Server

Lightweight web server implementation in C supporting HTTP. Built with unix sockets.

C Networking TLS/SSL
View Repository →

FTP Server

Custom FTP server implementation following RFC specifications. Handles multiple concurrent connections and implements core FTP commands.

C Network Programming Socket Programming
View Repository →

Suckless Software

Forks of suckless software I use (dwm, slstatus, dmenu, nsxiv, st, etc.), including various custom patches (ImageMagick support for nsxiv to permanently alter images, more accurate memory calculation for slstatus, various custom patches to alter the dwm bar, and many more).

C X11/Xorg Unix
View Repository →

Network CLI Collection

Various CLI network rewrite implementations including rewrites for commands like ping, netstat, and traceroute. Focus on understanding low-level networking concepts. (WIP)

C TCP/IP Protocols
View Repository →

Certifications & Documents

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Comprehensive networking certification covering network fundamentals, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation.

CompTIA Security+

Validates core cybersecurity skills, including risk management, threats, and secure network architecture.

CompTIA A+

Foundational certification focused on hardware, software, troubleshooting, and IT support practices.

Google IT Support Professional Certificate

Covers essential IT support skills, including troubleshooting, networking, system administration, and security.

Resume

Download my complete resume for more details about my experience and qualifications.

Download Resume (PDF)

Contact Information

📧 Email: ethan.cardenas@georgebrown.ca