
Hey, I'm Marco Pennekamp
I'm a software engineer and creative writer.
- I'm experienced in web development across the stack.
- I'm interested in programming languages and actively develop my own language called Lore.
- I have a Computer Science degree from TU Dortmund.
- I'm the founder of creative writing community NSTB.
- I write fiction at the crossroads of fantasy and the paranormal.
- Currently working on: nstb.ink, Lore, and my third novel.
I'm open for new opportunities. Do you have an awesome team working on an interesting project? Or just want to get in touch? Feel free to contact me via email. Also consider visiting my Github profile.
Education
Software Engineering
As a software engineer, I have a strong interest in functional programming and programming languages. My current go-to languages are Scala for general-purpose and backend work and Javascript for frontend work, but I have worked with an extensive range of languages in the past. These include Java, Python, Haskell, Typescript, and C++.
I am experienced in web development across the stack. I have built backends for Wordpace and Collap mostly using Scala and the Play Framework. I have used Hugo and Tailwind to build static sites (such as the Kaynef shop, and the Wordpace landing page/blog) and love working with Vue.js for my frontend needs. NuxtJS allowed me to build nstb.ink using Vue.js, which I'm very excited about. I have designed relational database schemas from the ground up, using mostly PostgreSQL.
Over almost a decade of actively programming I've had many interests, including graphics and game programming (building many game prototypes with OpenGL and C++ or Java), language design and implementation (such as a templating language compiled directly to JVM bytecode), virtual machines (studying the JVM, and building my own prototype VM), game modding, and, of course, web development.
Writing
I write novels and short stories at the crossroads of fantasy and the paranormal, combining my love for imaginative worlds, weird fiction, vivid dreams, and captivating accounts of hauntings and cryptids.
I started writing seriously in October 2018 and have since finished two novel drafts, several short stories, and a novella. In 2019, I wrote over 300,000 words and intend to continue that pace going into the new decade. Even though my native language is German, I write entirely in English, as I simply prefer it both in reading and in writing.
NSTB
In February 2019, I created a Discord writing community called NSTB, which I have been leading and developing continually. Our main draw is the 6-month novel writing challenge: We challenge ourselves to write a first draft within six months, starting in March and September. We have grown steadily and as of April 2020 have about 800 registered members. Find us on nstb.ink.
Building this community has been an extensive learning experience for me. I am continually improving my community management skills and am looking forward to developing the community even further.