Ryan Critchlow
MS Computer Science (HCI) · Researcher · Builder
Graduate student at Western Washington University specializing in Human-Computer Interaction. Three years of enterprise database management and SQL optimization experience. Research focused on accessible educational technology for children with autism.
About Me
I'm a Computer Science graduate student at Western Washington University with a focus on Human-Computer Interaction. My research centers on building accessible educational technology — specifically, designing games that help children with autism practice language skills.
Before grad school, I spent three years as a support analyst and SQL developer, where I got deep into database optimization, stakeholder collaboration, and shipping stable software releases. I've also bartended, built things with my hands as a carpenter, and taught courses ranging from data science to object-oriented design.
I'm driven by the intersection of technical problem-solving and human-centered design — building things that are not just functional, but genuinely usable and inclusive.
When I'm not coding or researching, you'll find me on a trail with my chocolate lab, training for my next half marathon, or behind a bar crafting cocktails. I'm into road biking, reading, and the occasional long video game session. I like staying active and being outside as much as I can.
Experience
Research Assistant
Western Washington University — KIND Lab
Bellingham, WA
- Designed and developed the KIND Lab website to showcase research initiatives and improve lab visibility
- Independently edit and revise research papers for clarity, structure, and adherence to publication standards
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Western Washington University
Bellingham, WA
- Supported 30+ students per quarter across three courses: DATA 311 (Fundamentals of Data Science), CSCI 102 (Computer Mediated Communications), and CSCI 345 (Object-Oriented Design)
- Provided weekly feedback on assignments and hosted regular office hours for student support
- Utilized Python for data science instruction, HTML5 and CSS for web technologies, and UML for object-oriented design principles
Support Analyst L4
Körber Supply Chain
Bellingham, WA
- Performance tuned, optimized, and automated SQL tasks via SSMS, utilizing advanced techniques including CTEs, stored procedures, profiling, indexing, SQL Server Agents, and error handling
- Worked directly with stakeholders to implement custom SQL reporting and webpages, delivering 46% more stable releases than support averages
- Collaborated with a team of 6 to develop a new 30/60/90 training model, decreasing onboarding times by 50%
Bartender
Redlight
Bellingham, WA
- Crafted cocktails and provided hospitality in a fast-paced downtown environment while financing graduate school
Bartender
Aslan Brewing Company
Bellingham, WA
- Delivered excellent customer service in a high-volume craft brewery setting
Carpenter
Bespoke Construction
Bellingham, WA
- Performed custom residential construction and finish carpentry work
Education
Master of Science in Computer Science
Western Washington University
Bellingham, WA
- Research in Human-Computer Interaction under Dr. Elglaly
Bachelor of Arts in Management of Information Systems
Western Washington University
Bellingham, WA
Skills
Languages
Frameworks & Tools
Research & Specializations
Projects & Research
Accessible Web Game for Pronoun Learning
2025 – 2026A touchscreen-based educational game designed to help children with autism practice pronouns through interactive play.
Increasing Alt Text Authorship
In ReviewCollaborative research paper focused on improving the creation and quality of alt text for web accessibility.
KIND Lab Website
2025Designed and built the website for the KIND Lab at WWU to showcase research initiatives and improve lab visibility.