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Wade Helquist

@wadehelquist

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I’m a Java Software Engineer using Spring Boot to build real-world applications and solve problems.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I’m seeking an entry-level Java/Spring role—remote if possible—where I can apply Spring Boot, SQL, and REST APIs, collaborate with a strong team, and keep learning as I build production software that solves real problems.

I’ve always been fascinated by how systems work and by building software people genuinely use and appreciate. My path started with QBASIC, grew through self-taught JavaScript, and expanded into Java while pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, graduating in 2026.

Along the way, I completed a full-stack web development program and built projects across enterprise applications, web development, desktop software, Android, and game development. Each project pushed me to think critically, adapt to new technologies, and continually improve how I design and test software.

Before shifting fully into software engineering, I spent more than 20 years in financial services, higher education, sales, and customer success—experience that strengthened my communication, analytical thinking, and understanding of how people interact with technology. In 2021, I independently developed an Excel-based reporting and analytics solution adopted by management across multiple departments to monitor team performance, and I was recognized with the Team Influencer Award in 2020.

Now, I’m actively seeking entry-level remote opportunities where I can contribute, keep learning, and collaborate with talented teams. I’m especially interested in applying Java, Spring Boot, SQL, and REST APIs to solve real-world problems with software that makes a meaningful difference.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

IT Enrollment Counselor II

Western Governors University

Jan 2020 - Jul 2026 (6 years 6 months)

Independently developed an Excel-based reporting and analytics solution in 2021 that was adopted by management across multiple departments to monitor team performance. Applied university policies and business rules to resolve diverse student situations while managing a high-volume student portfolio with accurate documentation and compliance. Delivered exceptional customer service through clear ver

Customer Success Problem Solving Documentation Policy Compliance Business Process Microsoft Teams Higher Education Student Services Case Management

Inside Sales Credit Consultant

Progrexion LLC

Jan 2019 - Jan 2020 (1 year)

Assessed clients' credit situations and recommended appropriate credit repair services while presenting tailored solutions, addressing objections, and explaining required disclosures. Continuously refined sales techniques through coaching, performance feedback, and ongoing professional development.

Consultative Selling Sales Financial Services Credit Analysis Negotiation Customer Service Active Listening

Senior Financial Services Representative

E*TRADE

May 2015 - Dec 2018 (3 years 7 months)

Served on an advanced support team handling complex brokerage and trading inquiries. Communicated trading concepts, risks, rewards, and regulatory requirements to clients and completed company-sponsored FINRA Series 7 and Series 63 licensing training.

Financial Services Problem Solving FINRA Trading Securities Mortgage Lending Risk Management Regulatory Compliance

Senior Financial Services Representative

E*TRADE from Morgan Stanley

May 2015 - Dec 2018 (3 years 7 months)

Promoted to an advanced support team responsible for handling complex brokerage and trading inquiries. Communicated trading concepts, risks, rewards, and regulatory requirements clearly to clients while completing company-sponsored training, including the FINRA Series 7 and Series 63 licensing requirements.

Financial Services Problem Solving FINRA Trading Securities Mortgage Lending Risk Management Regulatory Compliance

Senior Paralegal

Lexington Law Firm

Jun 2012 - May 2015 (2 years 11 months)

Assisted clients with billing inquiries, payment arrangements, and service agreement renewals while explaining service options, contract terms, and account benefits to help customers make informed decisions and resolve account-related concerns.

Customer Service Problem Solving Policy Compliance Client Relations Contract Management Client Billing Time Management

Customer Service Representative

Discover

Feb 2007 - May 2012 (5 years 3 months)

Worked across multiple departments, explaining financial products, rewards programs, account options, and lending services to help customers make informed financial decisions. Quickly adapted to new responsibilities, evolving business processes, and specialized product knowledge while maintaining a high standard of customer service.

Financial Services Customer Service Loans Credit Cards

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Salt Lake Community College

Associate of Science - , Psychology

Studied human behavior, cognition, communication, and psychological research while developing analytical thinking, research, written communication, and critical thinking skills.

Western Governors University

Bachelor of Science, Software Engineering

Completed a competency-based curriculum emphasizing software engineering principles, object-oriented programming, software design, web and mobile application development, UI/UX, software quality assurance, APIs, databases, Agile methodologies, and hands-on software development through real-world projects and a capstone.

Southern Careers Institute

Full-Stack Web Development Certificate

Completed an intensive full-stack web development program emphasizing modern software development practices, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, Java, SQL, REST APIs, Git, Agile methodologies, and full-stack application development. Built multiple hands-on projects while strengthening software engineering fundamentals.