Meet the Hermit: Dean Bortell
Welcome to Hermit Engineering, where technology meets exploration in the rugged beauty of Colorado. I’m Dean Bortell, the tech-savvy explorer behind this venture. Here’s a bit about me and how I combine a love for engineering with a passion for uncovering the mysteries of the natural world.
From Dairy Farm to Data Lines
I grew up on a dairy farm outside Oklahoma City, where my childhood was filled with the chores of farm life and the wonders of nature. My fascination with technology started early, thanks to my dad, a Honeywell computer engineer. He brought home a computer, and I quickly dove into the world of MS DOS and Windows, setting the stage for my future in engineering.
A Salute to Service
After high school, my sense of duty led me to the Navy. Serving as an Aviation Electronics Technician for six years, I honed my skills in circuit-level troubleshooting and repair. I even earned my Private Pilot’s License during this time. Although a service-related injury cut my military career short, it gave me invaluable experience and discipline that I carried into civilian life.
From Corporate to Cultivator
Post-Navy, I worked with giants like Perot Systems, Dell Services, and Catholic Health Initiatives, diving deep into software development and adaptive algorithms. But my heart always leaned towards exploration and the outdoors. In 2016, I retired and moved to an organic vegetable farm in Monument, Colorado, with my wife and two daughters. Even in retirement, I couldn’t resist tinkering, developing sensor networks, robots, and automation systems for our farm.
Chasing the Unexplained
My curiosity didn’t stop at technology and farming. I have a keen interest in Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP). Working with former students, I use AI and commercial hardware to gather data and detect anomalies. My role on the Colorado Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) Science Advisory Board reflects my dedication to exploring these mysteries.
Blending Past and Future
At Hermit Engineering, we blend my technical expertise with a spirit of exploration. Our projects range from advanced environmental sensors to a fully equipped overland research vehicle. We aim to push the boundaries of what’s possible while staying grounded in practical, sustainable solutions.
Join the Journey
When I’m not immersed in engineering challenges, you’ll find me hiking the Colorado mountains or working on the farm. My personal experiences and resilience shape the mission of Hermit Engineering. Here, we believe in the relentless pursuit of knowledge and the thrill of discovery, all while maintaining a good sense of humor and a down-to-earth approach.
So, join me as we explore the uncharted, develop cutting-edge technology, and uncover the hidden stories of our world. Welcome to Hermit Engineering – where every day is an adventure, and every project is a step towards unveiling the mysteries that surround us.