I’m a full-stack AI/LLM practitioner and solutions architect. I build LLM applications, deploy on-premises models, integrate AI into existing systems, and help organizations implement these technologies in practical, sustainable ways.

My work combines hands-on technical implementation with attention to AI safety, ethics, and the gap between how these systems are marketed versus how they actually function. This includes application development, on-premises deployment, system integration, model evaluation, and red teaming. I help organizations cut through the hype and implement solutions that are practical, secure, and aligned with their actual needs rather than vendor pitches.

Background & Experience

I’ve spent 30+ years working across enterprise software development, IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and fraud prevention. I’ve consistently focused on data analysis, pattern recognition, and intelligent automation.

At UPS, I worked extensively with behavioral pattern analysis, anomaly detection, and rule-based decision systems for fraud prevention. I also built large-scale social computing platforms, which involved natural language processing, content classification, and understanding how algorithmic systems shape human interaction and behavior. That experience shapes how I approach AI safety and guardrail implementation today.

At Pentek, I designed data acquisition and processing systems for real-time signal processing applications, working with high-performance computing pipelines and visualization systems. The fundamental challenges were the same ones I see in LLM deployment: efficient data processing, resource optimization, and building interfaces between complex computational systems and end users.

At Materials Research Corporation/Sony, I worked on technical communication and intranet systems for semiconductor manufacturing equipment, including UX design for industrial control systems. This early work combined technical writing with data systems development. It meant making complex manufacturing processes accessible through better interfaces and documentation. That combination of technical communication and system design directly informs how I approach AI implementation and training today.

I’ve run my own consultancy since 2012, working with professionals and small to medium-sized organizations on technology adoption, application development, system integration, and infrastructure deployment.

Current Focus

Through my consultancy (Ziegler Technical Solutions) and my blog (AightBits.com), I work on technical implementation, training, and education around AI adoption. I work primarily with small and medium-sized organizations that need practical solutions without unnecessary complexity.

I build LLM applications, deploy on-premises models, integrate AI into existing workflows, and train teams to use these tools effectively. I focus on sustainable implementations that organizations control rather than disposable proof-of-concepts.

I also analyze how AI systems affect human thinking and behavior, write about technical realities versus marketing claims, and help organizations develop informed, ethical AI policies. I’m concerned with the social and psychological impacts of these systems, not just the technical risks.

I’m a founding member of the AI Mental Health Collective and serve as a community moderator and subject matter expert for The Human Line Project. I work with researchers, mental health professionals, and policy makers on evidence-based AI safety.

Why I Do This Work

I’ve seen too many organizations adopt AI without understanding what they’re actually deploying or how it affects their people. I’ve watched technical terminology get misused in ways that create dangerous misconceptions. And I’ve observed how easily impressive demos translate into poor production implementations.

My goal is bridging the gap between technical reality and public understanding. I explain how these systems actually work, what their limitations are, where they genuinely add value, and where they introduce risks most people haven’t considered.

I write in accessible language for mixed audiences: technical and non-technical, enthusiasts and skeptics, builders and policymakers. I’m not selling AI, and I’m not fear-mongering about it. I’m trying to help people think clearly about what we’re building and deploying.

Other Interests

I’m a private pilot and Part 107 commercial drone operator, which has given me perspective on how we regulate complex technologies with real safety implications. Aviation’s approach to risk management, training, and operational discipline offers relevant lessons for AI deployment.

I’ve also written and photographed as a freelance aviation correspondent. The communication skills from that work inform how I approach technical education today.

Affiliations

Testimonials

His ability to sift through large amounts of data and determine useful patterns and trends makes him an extremely valuable solutions partner.

— Tim E., Director Application Development, UPS

David is a very skilled communicator and has a knack to evaluate his audience and craft his presentation to fit those who he was speaking to. If presenting to senior management, Dave knew instinctively to refrain from using technology jargon or complex details. Conversely, if presenting to a team of engineers, he would completely change the presentation.

— John B., Manager, Advanced Technology & Information Security, UPS

David has a unique talent to diagnose complex business problems and break them down to determine root cause and then create solutions that can be implemented.

— Tim E., Director Application Development, UPS

In the area of Fraud and Fraud analysis, Dave has distinguished himself as one of the best in his field.

— Peter B., Application Architect, UPS

His intensity and focus has enabled us to expand into necessary and somewhat uncharted grounds and make it immediately value-added and successful.

— Carol R., Lead Information Security Analyst, UPS

Dave demonstrated from early in his tenure that he understood what business is all about. He was well organized and thrived under adversity. He kept a sharp eye on the bottom line, but realized too that customer satisfaction is what makes or breaks your business. I suppose doing well in business is easy if you are, as he was, driven in equal measure by both quality and efficiency.

— Chris T., Director / Chief Architect, Pentek

AightBot