Nicolas
Slenko.

— Introduction

Junior Computer Science Student @ UF & Machine Learning Engineer.

Passionate about AI/ML, software engineering, and creating innovative solutions. Currently pursuing Computer Science with a Statistics minor at the University of Florida with a 4.0 GPA 😎.

GitHub
Nicolas Slenko
203-914-8683
nslenko@ufl.edu
Fairfield, CT

About Me

I'm a Computer Science student at the University of Florida with a Statistics minor, maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA. My passion lies at the intersection of machine learning, software engineering, and data science.

From optimizing airfoil performance with reinforcement learning at the Naval Surface Warfare Center to building autonomous vehicle systems, I enjoy tackling diverse challenges that push the boundaries of technology.

When I'm not coding, I'm actively involved in SHPE and GatorTech, lifting, learning new languages, playing the Guitar and Tuba, and exploring the world through travel and outdoor adventures.

Multilingual Journey
Finding Peace in Nature
Off-Road Adventures in Spain
Team Adventures
Pushing Limits in the Gym
Dedication Through Gaming
📍 Daily Language Practice

Multilingual Journey

I'm fluent in Spanish and English, currently learning Russian to connect with my family heritage, and starting Japanese as I plan to study abroad in Tokyo. This 275-day Duolingo streak represents my commitment to breaking down language barriers in our global tech community.

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Featured Projects (More on Github)

Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient Agent ✈️
Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient Agent ✈️
Featured
October 2024 – December 2024
Implemented a DDPG agent in MATLAB to optimize airfoil performance, achieving 50%+ increase in aerodynamic efficiency and 20%+ reduction in drag coefficients using XFOIL and BEM theory.

Technologies Used

MATLAB
Simulink
XFOIL
Reinforcement Learning
Deep Learning
Club Companion – Student & Club Matcher 🤝
Club Companion – Student & Club Matcher 🤝
Featured
March 2025 – Present
Designed and developed a full-stack web application to streamline club discovery and student engagement on campus. Club Companion allows students to explore, filter, and connect with university organizations based on their interests. Built with a PostgreSQL database, FastAPI backend, and Next.js frontend. Currently a working prototype with plans to expand university-wide in the near future.

Technologies Used

Next.js
FastAPI
PostgreSQL
Docker
TypeScript
REST API
Autonomous Vehicle Detection System 🚗
Autonomous Vehicle Detection System 🚗
August 2023 – May 2024
Developed Haar classifiers using TensorFlow and AdaBoost for traffic sign and obstacle detection, achieving 80%+ detection rate and improving decision-making speeds by 15%+. Led the SHPE design team to successful competition results.

Technologies Used

Python
TensorFlow
OpenCV
AdaBoost
Computer Vision
Discord User Enhancement Research Project 🛡️
Discord User Enhancement Research Project 🛡️
June 2022 – May 2023
250+ downloads
A research project focused on Discord user experience enhancement by mitigating hate speech with efficient back-end functionalities using Flask. Presented at the 2023 Fairfield University Research Symposium.

Technologies Used

Python
Flask
HTML
CSS
JavaScript
CNN Image Classification Project 👁️
CNN Image Classification Project 👁️
September 2024 – November 2024
Developed a Fully-Parametrized Convolutional Neural Network using PyTorch to classify 12 different object categories including backpack, book, calculator, chair, and more. Achieved 78.43% test accuracy using data augmentation, batch normalization, and early stopping techniques - a 70.87 percentage point improvement over random guessing baseline.

Technologies Used

Python
PyTorch
CNN
Data Augmentation
Computer Vision

Experience

Regal Rexnord ⚙️ Logo
Incoming Machine Learning Operations Intern
Upcoming
Regal Rexnord ⚙️
June 2025 – August 2025
Grafton, WI

Upcoming internship focused on machine learning operations, model deployment, and MLOps best practices in an industrial manufacturing environment.

MLOps
Machine Learning
Python
Cloud Computing
Naval Surface Warfare Center 🚀 Logo
Software Engineer Intern
Naval Surface Warfare Center 🚀
October 2024 – December 2024
Remote

Implemented a Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient agent in MATLAB to optimize airfoil performance, achieving a 50%+ increase in aerodynamic efficiency. Utilized XFOIL and Blade Element Momentum theory for physics-based reinforcement learning.

MATLAB
Simulink
XFOIL
Reinforcement Learning
Deep Learning
LightBox 🌍 Logo
Software Engineer Intern
LightBox 🌍
May 2023 – July 2023
Shelton, CT

Automated data setup post-natural disasters using Python CLI applications, improving query speeds by 50%. Implemented standard data collection practices with environmental APIs and created web maps using ArcGIS.

Python
ArcGIS
APIs
Data Processing
Geographic Information Systems

Education

University of Florida Logo
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Bachelor of Arts in Statistics
University of FloridaGainesville, FL
Aug 2023 – May 2027
GPA: 4.0/4.0

Relevant Coursework

Machine Learning Engineering
Operating Systems
Data Structures and Algorithms
Computer Organization
Programming Fundamentals
Discrete Math
Calculus 3
Linear Algebra with MATLAB
Introduction to Probability

Programs & Activities

Deloitte Mentorship Program
Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers
Autonomous Vehicle Design Team
Gator Tech Project Team
UF Body Building and Fitness

Technical Skills

Languages
Python
C++
Java
JavaScript
HTML/CSS
MATLAB
Frameworks
SpringBoot
Flask
PyTorch
Keras
React
Next.js
OpenCV
Developer Tools
Visual Studio
PyCharm
CLion
IntelliJ
DataGrip
Docker
MySQL
Repl.it
Simulink
XFOIL
ArcGIS

Let's Connect

I'm always interested in new opportunities, research collaborations, and exciting projects. Whether you're looking for a machine learning engineer, full-stack developer, or research partner, let's discuss how we can work together.

LinkedIn
203-914-8683
nickslenko@gmail.com