A Marine Biologist
Who Builds Web Apps
"Settled 1000 miles from the sea, but brought the analytical mind of a scientist to every web development challenge."
AI-Generated: Marine Biologist meets Programmer
Generated with ChatGPT 5
Fraser Gorrie
BSc Marine Biology • MSc Zoology
From Sea to Software
The unlikely journey from marine biology research to web development mastery
Academic Foundation
BSc Marine Biology - University of Guelph (1980)
Studied aquatic ecosystems, fish biology, and scientific research methodologies. This foundation in systematic thinking and data analysis would prove invaluable in software development.
MSc Zoology - University of Toronto (1984)
Specialized research on muskellunge bio-energetics. Published papers on fish metabolism and energy systems. Developed deep appreciation for complex systems analysis and long-term thinking.
The Great Migration (1982)
"I settled 1000 miles from the sea" - I made the conscious decision to move inland just after finishing my MSc. I decided then to apply my scientific point-of-view to emerging computer technologies and their applications.
I began statistically analyzing data and building software solutions for scientific groups all over North America in 1982, 2 years before I completed my MSc. Within 5 years, I was adding business clients as well. By 1995, my clients were split 50/50 between science and business. Since then, the science end has decreased to the point that it is rare to have one of those very fun scientific/environmental applications to develop.
I was pleasantly surprised to find that the analytical skills and concepts from marine and freshwater ecosystems translated so well and augmented my understanding of complex software systems in business and not-for-profit agencies.
Four Decades of Continuous Evolution
I was fascinated by computers. I wrote Fortran on paper cards that I submitted "jobs" via hopper to a mainframe at University. I bought my first computer in 1979, an Apple ][+. I used it to write statistical tests and model the data from my MSc. I also wrote my thesis on it.
What started as curiosity about early computing has become 43 years of continuous learning and adaptation. From mainframes to microcomputers, from desktop applications to web platforms, from traditional development to AI-assisted coding.
Industries Served
- • Agriculture distribution
- • Energy sector
- • Federal & provincial agencies,
- • Manufacturing
- • Small business
- • US and Canada
Previous Clients
- • Ontario Hydro
- • Consumer's Glass
- • Ontario Ministry of the Environment,
- • Fisheries and Oceans Canada
- • Environment Canada
- • Great Lakes Fisheries Commission
- • Ontario Petroleum Association
- • Small business
- • US and Canada
Core Principles
- • Long-term thinking
- • Scientific methodology
- • Business continuity focus
- • Personal relationships
- • Adaptive planning
- • Quality over speed
Why Scientific Training Works for Web Development
The methodologies that work for understanding complex biological systems are surprisingly effective for building robust software systems.
Systematic Observation
Marine biology taught me to observe systems carefully before making changes. In web development, this means understanding business processes before building solutions.
Long-term Thinking
Ecosystem research requires thinking in decades, not quarters. This perspective helps build software that lasts and adapts rather than breaking under pressure.
Systems Analysis
Understanding how components interact within complex systems is fundamental to both biology and software. Predicting side effects and designing resilient architectures.
The Meristics Philosophy
Personal values that shape every client relationship
Approachable
Complex technology shouldn't come with complex communication. I explain things clearly and never make you feel uncomfortable asking questions.
Loyal
Some clients have been with me for 20+ years because I am always around. Your success becomes my success, and I'm invested in long-term relationships.
Trustworthy
43 years in business has built me a reputation. For a sampling , see my testimonials. I do what I say I'll do, when I say I'll do it, for the price we agreed on.
Supportive
Your project's success is more important than my ego. I'll tell you when something won't work and help you find better solutions.
Inquisitive
The scientist in me never stops asking "why?" and "what if?" This curiosity leads to better solutions and helps avoid assumptions.
Collaborative
Your expertise in your business, coupled with your passion for your project and my expertise in technology creates better outcomes than either of us could achieve alone.
Meristics • The Technifar Corporation
While I operate under the corporate structure of The Technifar Corporation with the Meristics division, every project is deeply personal. You work directly with me, not a team or account managers.
This isn't about corporate scaling or agency growth—it's about providing the highest quality service to a select group of clients who value expertise, reliability, and long-term partnerships.
"Solopreneur by choice, not necessity. When you work with me, you get me."
Ready to Work with a Different Kind of Developer?
Free consultation • No obligation • 45-minutes • Let's discuss your web development needs or AI learning goals
No pressure • No sales pitch • Just earnest advice about your project