Hi, I'm Don Stegall.

Software architect, engineering leader, and lifelong builder.

I've been writing code since before 1981 and I haven't stopped yet.

The project I'm most known for is IRIS/GuestCheck — the point-of-sale system I created at Progressive Software in 1995 that went on to power Starbucks worldwide for over 15 years. It processed millions of transactions daily, helped bring Starbucks into Japan, and was still running at Jack in the Box as late as 2022. I designed the architecture, led the team, and reviewed every line.

Over the past two decades, I've delivered across the enterprise as a trusted contractor at Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and others — rescuing failing projects, mentoring developers, and building systems that organizations depend on.

Right now I'm working on two things I love: a healthcare communication system for smartwatches and phones, and RCPRO, where I design and 3D print R/C pylon racing aircraft. Both involve solving hard problems with elegant engineering — which is really all I've ever wanted to do.

Have a look around. My resume, articles, videos, and project links are all here.