About Daniel Robbins
Most people know me as the creator of Gentoo Linux, an Open Source operating system that challenged the conventions of how software should be built and managed. I'm incredibly proud that the foundational work on Gentoo was adopted by Google to become the the basis for ChromeOS, powering millions of Chromebooks around the world. My work continued with Funtoo Linux, an evolution of those original ideas.
Leading these large-scale Open Source projects was a masterclass in community, collaboration, and the raw, creative energy of distributed development.
But my experience extends far beyond the Open Source world. I've been fortunate to apply my architectural vision in some of the most demanding environments imaginable -- as part of Microsoft's Platform Strategy team, as a Senior Principal at E*TRADE Financial, and delivering security, performance, visualization and technology solutions for various government agencies.
As a technical author, I shared my insights with a global audience as a regular columnist for IBM developerWorks, authoring over 20 articles on advanced Linux and Unix topics.
This blend of experiences—from the collaborative chaos of Open Source to the rigorous demands of enterprise and government, and technical writing -— has given me a unique perspective. I have both the deep, hands-on knowledge of a systems programmer and the broad, strategic vision of an architect who has seen what it takes for technology to succeed at scale.
My focus now is on working directly with startups and established teams to provide the clarity and foundational expertise that turns ambitious ideas into durable, elegant realities.
When you work with me, you are not just hiring a developer. You are bringing on a partner with the depth and breadth of experience to be a major strategic and technical asset for your project.
Interested in chatting with me about your current challenge? Discuss Your Project or, if you prefer, drop me an email at drobbins@funtoo.org.