From Paint Cans to Python: Why I’m Building Tech for the Overlooked

Three months ago, I was in Florida painting houses and Googling “how to make a website.” Today, I’m on the other side of the world, building AI tools for small crews and contractors who’ve been ignored by the tech industry.

It might sound reckless. But for me, it was never about hype or chasing a trend. It was about refusing to accept that technology only belongs to people with money, connections, or an Ivy League résumé. I didn’t start with a perfect plan. I started with a reason.

How It Started

The spark was small: a simple PDF checklist I wanted to turn into a form for homeowners. In trying to solve that problem, I stumbled into automation tools. One small step opened up an entire world I hadn’t known existed.

By late April, I left the U.S. with nothing but the decision to go all in. By mid-May, I was teaching myself automation through n8n and piecing together my first real workflows.

What I’ve Built So Far

Three months later, here’s where I stand:

• SiteLog: a working product that helps crews record daily jobsite updates, instantly summarized with AI

• Tech stack: a self-hosted system using n8n, Supabase, and OpenAI

• Skills: enough HTML, JavaScript, and Python to start turning ideas into working tools

• Outreach: early conversations with contractors to test these ideas in the field

It’s not polished. It’s not perfect. But it’s real. And that matters more.

Who I’m Building For

I’m not here for Silicon Valley applause. I’m building for people who don’t usually get invited to the table:

• Contractors and crews — folks with no time for “tech fluff,” just tools that actually work

• Formerly incarcerated individuals — people trying to re-enter society with little support and a lot of red tape

• Women in unconventional careers — dancers, strippers, and others who want to transition with dignity and choice

Technology should exist for people at the edges — the ones overlooked, underestimated, or written off. That’s who I build for.

What I’ve Learned

• Momentum compounds. Every small workflow, every “it worked!” moment stacks up.

• Doubt never leaves. But progress still happens if you keep moving.

• Community is fuel. I’ve been building mostly alone. That has to change.

Why I’m Sharing This

If you’re someone who’s been passed over by tech, or if you’re building tools for those who have, I’d love to connect. If you know someone buried under outdated systems or paperwork, I want to hear their story. And if you’ve already walked this road, I’d value any wisdom you’re willing to share.

This journey isn’t about building apps. It’s about building bridges.

— Heather K.
Self-taught technologist | Builder of FieldOps Suite | AI & Automation for the Underdog