About Me

About Me

Hi, I’m Charles Otieno from Kisumu, Kenya — a technology professional, educator, and maker with a background in Bachelors of Science in Computer Security and Forensics.

I work at Fablab Winam, an innovation makerspace where I empower students and the community through technology, digital fabrication, and hands-on learning. I am passionate about using technology to solve real problems and create opportunities through STEM education.

What I Do

Cybersecurity Research

I conduct cybersecurity research focused on:

Understanding system and network vulnerabilities

Teaching cybersecurity awareness and best practices

I am especially interested in building practical security solutions that can be used by schools, startups, and small organizations with limited resources.

Software Development

I am a full-stack developer with experience in Java and modern web technologies. I build:

Web applications

Entreprise platforms

Electronics & Digital Fabrication

Through my work at the makerspace , I design and build:

Electronics projects using microcontrollers and sensors

Smart systems that combine hardware and software

Digital fabrication projects using 3D printing and CNC machines

I enjoy working at the intersection of software, electronics, and physical computing.

Teaching & Mentorship

I mentor students in STEM fields including:

Robotics

Coding

Electronics

Digital fabrication

I believe learning is most powerful when it is hands-on, creative, and problem-solving based.

Cybersecurity Project — AI-Powered Intrusion Prevention System for SMEs

One of my key cybersecurity research projects is the development of an Automated Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

Project Goal

To design a smart, affordable, and easy-to-deploy security system that helps small organizations protect their networks and computers from cyber threats in real time.

How It Works

The system uses AI and Machine Learning to detect unusual or malicious behavior across a network. It is designed to:

Install lightweight security agents on client computers

Monitor network traffic and system activity

Analyze behavior patterns using machine learning models

Automatically detect, block, and respond to threats

Instead of relying only on traditional signature-based detection, the system focuses on behavior-based detection, which helps identify new and unknown attacks.

Why This Matters

Many SMEs cannot afford expensive enterprise security solutions and often lack dedicated cybersecurity staff. This project aims to provide a cost-effective, intelligent security solution that improves protection without requiring deep technical expertise.

Fab Academy Project — Smart Water Purification Control System

For my Fab Academy work, I am also developing a smart water purification control system designed to improve water quality using electronics, sensors, and automated control.

Project Goal

To create an intelligent monitoring and control system that improves the effectiveness and safety of a water purification process by automatically measuring water quality and controlling flow.

How the System Works

The system integrates pumps, sensors, filters, and electronically controlled valves to monitor and regulate the purification process.

Process Flow:

Water Source Raw water enters the system.

Existing Pump Moves water toward the purification line.

Pump 1 – Intake Control (My System) Controls how much water enters the treatment system.

Electrocoagulation Unit Uses electrical current to remove fine particles, heavy metals, and impurities by forming removable flocs.

Primary Physical Filter Removes the flocs and sediments formed during electrocoagulation.

Turbidity Sensor (Water Clarity Check) Measures how clear the water is after filtration.

If turbidity is above the safe limit:

The solenoid valve closes

The system sends an alert to the monitoring dashboard

Water is paused or recirculated for further treatment

If turbidity is within the safe limit: The system continues to the next stage.

Flow Sensor Measures and monitors the water flow rate.

Flow Control Valve Electronically adjusts the flow to maintain optimal purification conditions.

Output to External System The treated water is sent to a final purification stage (such as UV and TiO₂ treatment), which is handled separately.

Why This Matters

Access to clean water is a major challenge in many communities. This project combines electronics, programming, and digital fabrication to create a low-cost, intelligent system that helps make water treatment safer and more reliable.

My Journey

I was born and raised in Kisumu, a city on the shores of Lake Victoria. From a young age, I was curious about how things work — from electronics and computers to software and robotics.

This curiosity led me to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Security and Forensics and grow into both a cybersecurity professional and a software developer. Over time, I combined my technical skills with a passion for education, helping students and the community gain practical experience in STEM and digital fabrication.

Why Fab Academy

I am currently expanding my skills through the Fab Academy, focusing on:

Digital fabrication

Electronics design

Rapid prototyping

This program strengthens my ability to design, build, and document complete projects from idea to working prototype.

Beyond Technology

I am also a proud father, inspired every day by my daughter to work harder and create meaningful impact. She motivates me to keep learning, building, and contributing to a better future through technology and education.

I believe technology should be practical, accessible, and empowering — and I’m committed to learning, building, and sharing knowledge with my community.