Summary
Chuck Bates is a Principal Software Engineer with 11 years of experience building secure, production-grade systems across SaaS, defense, and space industry contexts. He blends a physics-trained analytical mindset with deep expertise in authentication, authorization, and security mitigations, having led teams at Pluralsight and guided DoD-focused projects at Space Dynamics Laboratory. Chuck thrives in small-company environments—shaping product development, mentoring engineers, and instituting training programs to raise team craft and resilience. Currently driving architecture and delivery at Flashlight Learning after a stint as System Architect at Transport4, he navigates both hands-on coding and high-level system design. Known for curiosity across physics, cybersecurity, and tooling, he favors analytical problem solving and experimenting with new technologies to tackle complex challenges. Based in Providence, Utah, he brings a pragmatic leadership style that balances technical depth with clear communication.
11 years of coding experience
13 years of employment as a software developer
Bachelor's degree Physics, Bachelor's degree Physics at Utah Valley University