About

I'm Caleb. Engineer, photographer, filmmaker, volunteer, reader, tinkerer, and maker. I live in Lancaster, Pennsylvania with my partner Megan, two orange cats, and an English Setter.

Engineering

I'm the founder of Iris Automation Systems LLC, a freelance engineering consultancy. With a background in embedded software and electrical engineering, I orchestrate hardware, software, and web/cloud solutions to bring ideas to life.

I've developed software for combines and harvesters at CNH Industrial, designed instrumentation and control systems at Exelon's Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station, set up VFDs on conveyor systems in package distribution centers, and re-tuned ultrasonic sealers on 1970's Mitsubishi PLCs for a Swiffer production line migrated from Japan. My professional experience spans industries and continents, with cross-functional collaboration in the U.S., Belgium, Brazil, and India.

Photography & Film

I practice photography daily as a way to connect with the world and tell stories through a timeless medium. My work spans portraiture, editorial, weddings, events, and wildlife. I also produce short films and video projects for nonprofits, musicians, and community organizations.

DIY & Prototyping

I enjoy building things that bridge my interests. A solid state relay powering a soup heater to keep a water bath within ±1°C. A ripped-apart Kodak slide projector converted into a film slide digitizer producing higher fidelity images than any other reasonable option, automated to do eighty slides at a time. Check out my projects and GitHub.

Community

I serve as Secretary of the Board for The Common Wheel, a nonprofit bike shop that provides youth and adult programming while promoting cycling in Lancaster. I'm also Vice Curator of the Global Shapers Lancaster Hub, a group of young leaders addressing local needs through focused community projects. I help organize Ride, Roll, Stroll Lancaster, improving active transportation in our city, and facilitate Photo Jam, a community photography meetup.

At Home

When I'm not working on a project, you'll find me reading old literature or classic science fiction. I believe in building things that matter, showing up for the people around me, and staying curious about everything.