Hi, I'm Ken.
I am an Elixir-loving software engineer based in Tokyo, Japan. Currently unemployed, but I have worked at several tech companies focusing on embedded system development and web development. As well as staying lazy days, I am learning about Elixir and machine learning. I can't be Linus Torvalds or José Valim, but I want to develop something new, even something small, that will have an impact on the world.
Value
While the world becomes increasingly obsessed with digital experiences, I believe technology's true purpose is to enhance and empower the physical world we actually live in. Computers and AI should complement human capabilities, not replace them—amplifying our potential rather than diminishing our agency.
Rather than scaling existing solutions from 1 to 100, I focus on the harder challenge of creating something meaningful from nothing—turning 0 into 1. I believe in writing code that's not just functional, but elegant and maintainable, combining the reliability mindset from embedded systems with the agility of modern web development.
Likes:
- Writing code, especially Elixir🧪
- Cool gadgets, because I am a superbacker of Kickstarter🎉
- Coffee☕️
Dislikes:
- SNS overflowing with rubbish info
- Big Tech, where the exploitation of personal data and advertising bloat never stops
- Scam campaigns prevalent on Kickstarter
Professional Experience
Lead Engineer, Business Development Manager, and Tech Sales | IP Dream inc. (2021-2022)
- Developed a Java web application (business optimization system) to support analytical operations for an environmental quality analysis company
- Built a client device for remote desktop services using a VPN
- Localized an existing collaboration app for the Japanese market
- Performed maintenance support for a major security company's disaster portal service
- Designed and set up the workation office on-site
Lead Engineer and Business Development Analyst | Hitachi, Ltd. (2019-2025)
- Developed Python software for a geofencing VPN device
- Built demo applications (using Elixir) for new business initiatives, such as BLE-based human location detection, management dashboards and so on
- Conducted research and trials for new ventures such as mushroom cultivation containers and electric kickboards/bicycles
- Explored collaboration with venture companies
Lead Engineer | Hitachi, Ltd. (2017-2019)
- Experienced leading cross-functional teams composed of multiple engineers (including outsourced personnel)
- Developed embedded C firmware for a card reader modules and designed security protocols
- Refactored legacy code (backend/C++) of existing product and developed a new UI (frontend/C#) for the development of a new Teller Machine
- Developed embedded C firmware for a labeler targeting the medical industry
Sorfware Engineer | Hitachi, Ltd. (2013-2017)
- Developed embedded C firmware for ATM modules such as receipt printers, and bankbook printers
- Implemeted a mechatronics logger in the firmware and also developed a desktop application for log analysis
- Conducted an internship at an Indian company, researched the automotive market, and analyzed its future prospects
- Mentored three foreign junior developers and supported them in adapting to life in Japan
Technical Skills
Languages: C, Elixir, Python, Rust, Bash, SQL
Web: Phoenix, Phoenix LiveView, GraphQL, WebSockets
Databases: MySQL, PostgreSQL, Redis
DevOps: Docker, Fly.io, Heroku, Sentry, Terraform
Projects
Contact
Email: ken@kenokabe.com
This is the easiest way if you want to reach out.
Mastodon: @kenokabe@mastodon.social
This is my primary means of broadcasting things to the world so please follow me there. For now, however, it is mainly posts about Kickstarter.
Element: kenokabe
A modern alternative to IRC or Discord. Good for team chats and groups.
Signal: kenokabe.06
It's straight forward, it's on mobile that's always with me so no setting up on other devices and it's easy for both text and voice. It is perfect, except that it requires a phone number as a personal identifier.
📍 Location: Tokyo, Japan
🌏 Availability: Open to remote opportunities globally, especially JST friendly timezones
🚀 Ready for: Full-time roles, technical consulting, microtasks, and interesting collaborations
🔍 Seeking opportunities starting May 2025. Always happy to discuss interesting projects, share Elixir knowledge, or grab coffee in Tokyo to talk about the intersection of technology and culture.