Reza Ghafari

IoT Passion

Back when I first delved into electronics, the term “IoT” (Internet of Things) probably didn’t exist. What I was doing might have been classified as low voltage electronics or simply hobbyist tinkering. Regardless of the terminology, my passion for electronics has always been there. If I had the chance to start over, I would choose to study electronics instead of software.

I’ve always been fascinated by small boards, sensors, and microcontrollers. Over the years, I’ve experimented with various components, though I rarely created anything lasting or particularly noteworthy. My projects have often been something here and there between the demands of work, kids and family life.

One area that particularly intrigued me was home automation. However, maintaining a circuit or an automation project over an extended period of time is not easy and requires constant attention and troubleshooting.

Despite these challenges, my interest in electronics persisted. I continued to explore and experiment with microcontrollers and single-board computers, particularly Arduino and Raspberry Pi. These tools opened up a world of possibilities, allowing me to experiment with various projects and ideas.

Even though I am no way an expert in electronics, knowing enough to get started has been invaluable, allowing me to enjoy the process of creating and learning along the way.

From Hobby to Teaching

Interestingly, my journey with electronics and IoT has led me to a new part time role: teaching IoT programming at Swinburne Online University. This position allows me to share my knowledge and passion with others, helping them navigate the exciting world of IoT. It’s a fulfilling way to stay connected to the field and inspire the next generation of tech enthusiasts, a way to give back to the commuity.

While my path in electronics started as a personal hobby, it has grown into a significant part of my professional life. The journey has been filled with challenges and learning opportunities, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. Whether through personal projects or teaching, I remain deeply engaged with the world of IoT and electronics, continually exploring and sharing the wonders of this ever-evolving field.