Biography

Rob Carlson is a seasoned software engineer, civic leader, and lifelong tinkerer with a passion for sharing knowledge. With over two decades of experience in software development, he has built a career at the intersection of technology, marketing, and government where he has built high-impact systems for organizations ranging from Fortune 500 companies to federal agencies.

Rob was born in central New Jersey where he lived for 18 years before moving to Baltimore County, Maryland to attend UMBC. Rob remained in the Baltimore County area for 25 years with a brief residence in the city before settling in the Parkville and Carney area. He met his wife on a first date in Charles Village and his daughter and son were born at a hospital in downtown Baltimore. Rob and his family recently moved to Lower Salford Township in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.

Influenced by his parents, Rob developed an early interest in technology, problem-solving, and civic engagement. His curiosity about computers began at a young age, leading him to explore programming, networking, and communications tools. He studied for and obtained an amateur radio license at the age of 16 and has actively participated in local events and groups since then. This analytical mindset and passion for making complex topics approachable would later shape both his career and his personal projects.

Rob is passionate about making government and community processes more accessible and effective. He has held leadership positions in multiple civic and volunteer organizations. He believes in the power of informed citizenship and frequently shares insights on policy, governance, and ways to engage in local politics. Rob is passionate about making government and community processes more accessible and effective.

Rob has been an active Freemason for over a decade and appreciates the traditions, philosophy, and community service aspects of the fraternity. He has served in multiple leadership roles, overseeing lodge operations, event organization, and member engagement.

He approaches life with a blend of curiosity, pragmatism, and self-improvement. He is drawn to Stoicism, productivity methodologies, and the idea that small, continuous improvements lead to meaningful progress. In 2025, Rob completed his B.S. in Information Systems Management at UMGC has a non-traditionally aged student, enhancing his real-world experience in cloud computing, security, and software architecture.