My name is Dave, and if you’ve read any of my blog, you’ve probably noticed I have a passion for AI, especially Large Language Models (LLMs). That interest goes back to my love of science fiction and early exposure to rule-based systems like ELIZA, as well as NLP-driven tools like Symantec Q&A.
As my career progressed, so did my involvement in projects that incorporated AI and machine learning ranging from data management and search to fraud prevention and beyond. What I’ve always wanted, though, was to see a real evolution in how humans interact with computers. With transformer LLMs, that shift finally arrived.
Expertise & Services
Now I consult on Large Language Models and develop LLM applications, helping organizations integrate AI technology into their infrastructure and workflows. Drawing on 30+ years of building enterprise applications, specialized information systems, hosting, and technical documentation, my focus is advising on and creating LLM solutions that emphasize practical development, responsible deployment, and clear communication.
My background in software development, IT consulting, research, technical communication, and project management guides how I approach AI implementation and deployment. Beyond development, I write extensively about LLM technology at various levels on topics such as capabilities, optimization, and the challenges of real-world deployment to help teams understand and implement AI solutions effectively.
Professional Focus
- LLM application development & optimization
- On-premises & hosted model implementation
- Integration & automation
- Technical documentation & training
- Specialized system development
- Prioritization on productive, safe & ethical use
Experience
Current:
In 2012, I founded Ziegler Technical Solutions, initially bringing enterprise tools and methods to smaller organizations. As LLM technology matured, ZTS evolved to focus on developing practical AI applications. My experience building enterprise systems and specialized software drives the development of production-ready LLM solutions, and my background in fraud prevention informs approaches to secure deployment.
Previous:
At UPS Advanced Technology Group, I led R&D projects including fraud prevention (winning the UPS Horizon Award), enterprise social computing, and innovation pipeline management. As technical liaison on the UPS Fraud Prevention Committee, I specialized in anti-fraud technology development and implementation.
At Pentek Inc., I spent over a decade as Web App Developer & IS Manager, establishing the company’s Internet presence and developing enterprise solutions including:
- Complete CRM suite & call tracking systems
- Document repository & management solutions
- Front-ends for DSP & Data Acquisition technology
At MRC/Sony Corporation, I created end-user documentation and CBT materials for semiconductor manufacturing equipment. As Sr. Systems Administrator for St. Thomas Aquinas College, I specified and deployed the college’s first campus-wide network.
Clarity: What I Am
I’m an AI professional focused on the practical application of Large Language Models (LLMs) and related data systems.
My work includes consulting, application development, local deployment and quantization, integration, customization, compliance, education, and end-user training.
I bring 30 years of experience in software development, systems design, data management, and R&D, with an engineering-led approach to building AI solutions that are reliable, efficient, and practical to maintain.
Transparency: What I’m Not
I don’t work on model architectures, nor do I curate data for or pretrain LLMs.
I’m not an AI researcher or data scientist.
My focus is on implementing, adapting, and deploying existing models to solve real problems, with a clear understanding of both current capabilities and where the field is headed.
Open to Opportunities
- Ethics & policy advisory roles
- LLM application development & deployment
- LLM infrastructure & implementation
- System architecture & integration
- Technical documentation & training
AightBits 