Ben Kirchhoff

The Ohio State University

Benjamink.dev Personal Website

• Developed a static HTML website, using Bootstrap CSS for styling.
• Utilizing AWS I created a S3 Bucket with the HTML code, and hosted the website utilizing my own domain, and connected it to the bucket using route53.
• I now make frequent updates to it using an AWS CodePipeline.

Hat Trick Soccer

• Creating an original soccer arcade game that incorporates real-life defensive tactics and challenges players to score against progressively skilled defenders.
• Designed original artwork for each level and teams, implementing user-controlled player input via keyboard.
• Written entirely in c++ using only the SDL2 library, which gives very low level access to audio, keyboard, mouse, and graphics.
• Below is a playthrough of a beta version of the game.

Game Design Capstone

• Developed ”Blade Putter”, a 3D speed-based golf platformer made in Unity.
• Designed the complex movement mechanics, working with physics to make traversing each level fun
• Created the 3D models for the game, including the environment, golf ball models, and levels
• Contributed heavily to the game alongside 6 other game developers, meeting 4 times a week to achieve goals for each 2-week sprint

FindMyLot

• Won the Honda challenge in the 2024 HackOHI/O Hackathon.
• Developed an app that uses a Machine learning model based on old trends and variables that affect parking around the city to find the closest available spot to you.
• Uses computer vision to guide you to the exact spot, and gather parking data for future use, with the user's consent.

Golf range minigame and animation

• Developed a golf range minigame using Unity and C#. The game features realistic ball physics and user-friendly controls.
• Used unity 3D models to create a custom golf swing animation in Blender based on a real life swing!
• Created a custom target that breaks into multiple pieces based on the place the ball hit the target.

Legend of Zelda Clone

• Led team of six in creation of game inspired by The Legend of Zelda using C# and the MonoGame engine.
• Played a pivotal role in crafting sophisticated lighting algorithms, contributing to the game's visual ambiance.
• Organized tasks in two-week sprints and conducted regular scrum meetings.
• Used GitHub for efficient collaborations and code reviews.

Sustainability Web App

• Created a React web application promoting campus sustainability initiatives as part of team at OSU HACKOHI/O.
• Utilized React components to enhance the UI to best display visually captivating graphs highlighting data on water consumption and energy usage
• Implemented a Node.js backend to handle API calls to the database and to serve the React frontend.

LifeStyle iPhone App (OSU Swift Certification)

• Developed a native iOS mobile application using SwiftUI. The user interface leveraged different views and objects to provide users with questions based on their lifestyle.

Founder and Game Developer

• Founded and managing an independent LLC focused on developing and releasing original and fun video games, giving me experience with taking initiative and end-to-end product ownership.
• Developed a full platformer game to the beta release, focusing on system design, implementation, debugging and iterative refinement of core gameplay mechanics.
• Conducted beta testing, synthesized tester feedback and responses, applied data informed iteration to improve usability, level progression and general user enjoyment.

Data Science Student Research Assistant

• Analyzed data, conducted literature reviews, and did machine learning research with regards to Osteoporosis in minority groups for the benefit of the lab.
• Evaluated official NIH medical study datasets to create multiple machine learning models (Extreme gradient boosting, Support Vector Regressor, Random Forest regressor and Artificial Neural Network) to predict Bone Mineral Density (BMD) values from phenotype and genotype data.
• Created models tailored specifically for given dataset and developed a custom neural network with backpropogation to fit the needs of the research. Training and Hyperparameter tuning was done utilizing the Ohio Supercomputer Center’s clusters.
• Proved the effectiveness of advanced machine learning techniques utilising genotype data to predict quantitative values in a clinical sense, and for BMD prediction in osteoporosis research.
• Conducted a research project on predicting Bone mineral density in pre-menopausal woman using advanced ML methods.
• Presented the results of the research project at a OSU Biomedical informatics department conference, which will be added to future lab publications.

Research Assistant

• Developed educational video games for STEM education with a multidisciplinary team from Ohio State’s Computer Science Engineering Department and Educational Studies Department, emphasizing algebra, physics, Newtonian mechanics, and computer science.
• Provided insights and feedback to enhance game mechanics and educational value, whilst utilizing innovative approaches to bridge theoretical concepts and practical application.
• Demonstrated adaptability and flexibility in responding to evolving project requirements.

The Schottenstein Center Operations

• Worked with a team of 20 to ensure the safety of 20,000+ patrons at concerts and sporting events.
• Facilitated seamless execution of concerts and sports events by meticulous logistics of equipment setup and teardown.
• Contribute to the overall event success through comprehensive maintenance tasks, showcasing a commitment to precision and excellence in every aspect of event operations.

Dormitory Office Assistant

• Provided quality customer service to residents by helping with their needs around the dorms.
• Acted as the front line of dormitory safety
• Dealt with crisis situations in dorms, coordinated with EMT, police and fire departments.

Freelance LandScaping

• Designed and built a 50 ft retaining wall.
• Cared for flowers and shrubs whilst remaking the front yard of a house.

Marketing Chair for OSU Dorm Community Council

• Lead the marketing strategy and devised media campaigns to increase community engagement of students on campus.
• Doubled attendance to events from the start of the year until the end.

Boy Scouts Eagle Scout

• Directed the design and construction of a 50 ft bridge over a creek. Created 3D renderings in SketchUp, ensuring the bridge’s strength (4000 lbs+) and resilience to weather. Managed logistics for material and machinery delivery and coordinated a team of 30 to complete construction in a single day.

Youth Robotics Mentor

• Coached team in building and programming a robot. Taught problem solving skills to help team complete challenges. Under my supervision the team reached the Ohio State finals and finished in top 20 three times.