From Martial Arts to Machine Learning
A timeline of disciplines, transitions, and growth
Senior Software Engineer / Tech Lead at Google
2019 – Present
Automated the onboarding process for third-party integrations with Google Maps, significantly improving efficiency and reducing costs. Led the AAA authorization modernization, replacing legacy SKU gating with a unified capability framework. Designed and launched DLP Lite for Gmail with GRF-based access controls. Earned an MBA from Louisiana State University Shreveport (GPA: 3.7) during this period.
Senior Software Engineer at Walmart Global Tech
2018 – 2019
Scaled ML-driven personalization modules to 100M+ users, improving engagement across e-commerce surfaces. Currently focused on recommendation systems, applying ML to improve platform-wide personalization and relevance. Built a config-driven tracking platform that reduced release cycles by 75% and improved developer velocity.
Software Developer at Thumbtack
2017 – 2018
Built internal automation tools, including a ticket-notes generator that saved each team 1+ hour per week.
Lead Software Developer at TAMU System
2015 – 2017
Led development of enterprise applications, owning end-to-end design and delivery.
Software Engineer at Amazon
2010 – 2015
Led the FBA Profitability Service (TPS > 1,200) and redesigned the storage-fee system, generating 20% revenue uplift and $10M+ in annual savings. Delivered a 14x runtime reduction for the fee-preview platform, improving seller experience globally.
M.S. in Software Engineering — Peking University
Graduated in the top 2% of the program with a focus on Natural Language Processing. Admitted among 600+ candidates, ranked in the top 10. Published research on automated essay scoring for nonnative Chinese speakers in ICIC Express Letters (Vol. 3, No. 5, October 2012), indexed by Ei Compendex, Scopus, and INSPEC. This degree marked the formal transition into computer science and laid the foundation for a career in software engineering and machine learning.
Major Transition
Made a deliberate pivot into computer science from an English literature background. After earning a B.A. in English, self-studied data structures, algorithms, and programming fundamentals before pursuing a master's degree in software engineering. The transition was fueled by the same systematic approach learned in martial arts: break down complex skills into manageable components, practice deliberately, and iterate relentlessly.
B.A. in English Language and Literature — Nankai University
Ranked in the top 300 out of 500,000+ examinees in one of China's most competitive provinces for the national college entrance exam. The program focused on English language and literature, with foundational coursework in semantics, pragmatics, and other core linguistics subjects — providing an early introduction to Natural Language Processing (NLP). The rigorous liberal arts training honed analytical thinking, communication, and cross-cultural understanding — skills that later proved invaluable in technical leadership and cross-team collaboration.
Short & Medium-Haul Freight
Operated short and medium-haul freight routes using a tractor-trailer (one tractor, one trailer), managing logistics coordination, route planning, and time-sensitive deliveries. This hands-on experience in real-world logistics provided a grounded understanding of supply chain dynamics, resource allocation under constraints, and the value of precise execution.
Culinary Arts & Family Restaurant
Reached a Level 3 chef proficiency through hands-on work at the family restaurant. Developed a reward-and-penalty system that improved operational efficiency and staff accountability. This experience taught systems thinking, process optimization, and the importance of clear incentive structures — principles that later translated directly into software engineering workflows.
Early Martial Arts Training
Trained in traditional Chinese martial arts from a young age. Mastered Cotton Belly — a breathing and conditioning technique advanced enough to absorb incoming punches. Developed Vajra Palm — a striking method capable of breaking walnuts and bricks. Honed Echo Location — an auditory awareness skill refined to the point of detecting anyone's movement and position by sound alone. These practices instilled a deep respect for structured learning, body mechanics, and mental focus.