About Joe Plankinton Jr
My Journey into IT and Website Development
My path to IT and website development wasn't exactly conventional—it was shaped by resilience. After a life-changing allergy forced me to close my business repairing computer and electrically controlled hydraulics, I had to take some time to rethink my career and rediscover my purpose. Eventually, I felt the pull back to the tech world.
I began my IT career as a Computer Analyst at Fort Riley, focusing on IT infrastructure, networks, computers, and servers — an environment heavily centered around cybersecurity. Working with network protocols and server scripting, I discovered a passion for coding.
From there, I started HoneyBadger IT Solutions, where I worked on networks, computer systems, and freelance backend development using Django (Python3). But my creative side was calling for more. So, I transitioned into full-stack development, combining React frontends with Django backends.
When Next.js introduced its app router, it unlocked a new efficiency level. It allowed me to build entire websites in a single app with one deployment — saving time and costs.
While working with businesses, I noticed a recurring issue: great websites paired with poor marketing strategies. A well-designed site doesn't mean much if it isn't driving traffic and generating leads. That realization pushed me to dive deep into SEO best practices, ensuring every site I build isn't just functional but actively works as a lead-generation tool.
This focus led to the rebranding of my business as HoneyBadger–Designs, where I now specialize in TypeScript, Next.js, Postgres or MongoDB, and Payload CMS. My goal is simple: help small and start-up businesses thrive online with robust websites, strong SEO, and smart marketing strategies.
Education & Certifications
- BS in Technology Management — Kansas State University
- Workforce Cybersecurity Administration Certificate — Ivy Tech Community College
- Red Hat RH124
- Red Hat RH134
- Cisco CyberOps Associate CBROPS (200-201)
- EC–Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEHv12)
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA 200-301)
- CompTIA
- A+
- Security+
- Linux+
- Systems Support Specialist
- AWS
- Certified Cloud Practitioner
Skills
- Languages — TypeScript, Python, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, SQL, Bash, Yaml
- Frameworks — Next.js, React, Django
- Databases — Postgres, MongoDB
- CMS — Payload CMS
- SEO — Google Analytics, Google Search Console
- DevOps — Git, AWS
Beyond the Code
When I'm not coding, you can find me fishing, camping, or Jeeping. I'm a self-proclaimed outdoor enthusiast, and I love spending time with my family and my dog, Zeus. I'm also a huge fan of the Kansas City Chiefs.