Ricky Lee LaPraim

Advisor · Technologist · Speaker · Writer

Independent Service & Community Initiatives

Founded Outlander Ministry as an independent, service-based initiative focused on supporting communities in need through practical assistance, presence, and faith-inspired outreach. The work is guided by principles of humility, service, and preparation, emphasizing action, relationship-building, and meeting people where they are.

• Building the ministry intentionally from the ground up, focusing on sustainable service models rather than institutional scale.
• Engaging in direct community support efforts centered on care, dignity, and practical help.
• Developing outreach concepts inspired by early Christian service traditions, emphasizing preparation, integrity, and lived example.
• Exploring long-term pathways for growth while remaining grounded in service-first values rather than organizational hierarchy.

Advisory, Leadership, & Consulting Work

Served on the Board of Directors for The Energy Project, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering high school students to design viable business plans and products addressing sustainable energy and environmental challenges.

• Served on the Board of Directors for The Energy Project, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering high school students to design viable business plans and products addressing sustainable energy and environmental challenges.
• Advised executive leadership on organizational strategy, program direction, and long-term growth initiatives focused on workforce development in sustainable energy.
• Led the design and implementation of a grant acquisition strategy, forming and guiding a four-person grant writing team targeting state and federal funding opportunities.
• Supported the development of scalable funding pipelines to expand educational programs and partnerships with schools, universities, industry, and government entities.
• Contributed governance oversight and strategic guidance to initiatives integrating business planning, product development, and real-world energy solutions for students.
• Helped position the organization for broader adoption of its programs across educational institutions through improved funding, partnerships, and operational clarity.
• A governance and advisory role centered on strategic planning, grant funding, and scaling mission-driven educational programs in sustainability and energy innovation.

Led the UI/UX design and full-stack website development for DirSec, a cybersecurity and IT solutions provider, resulting in significant growth in traffic, leads, and online visibility.

• Directed a multidisciplinary team in designing and implementing a responsive WordPress website hosted on WP Engine, ensuring fast load times, robust security, and reliable performance.
• Oversaw UI/UX improvements to create an intuitive, professional interface aligned with DirSec’s brand and business objectives.
• Implemented SEO strategies and optimized website architecture, resulting in a 150% increase in site traffic and 100% growth in organic search queries.
• Developed lead capture and conversion mechanisms, doubling daily sales and increasing average daily leads by 200%.
• Collaborated with stakeholders to align the digital strategy with business goals, positioning DirSec as a trusted authority in secure IT solutions.

Oversaw the design, development, and deployment of an internal GIS-based pipeline integrity management platform, coordinating closely with Kinder Morgan stakeholders and an interdisciplinary team of developers and designers.

• Directed UI/UX strategy, front-end development (React), and back-end integration (Python, SQL) to build an accessible and visually intuitive GIS platform for pipeline asset monitoring.
• Translated complex spatial datasets into interactive map layers with multiple viewing modes and measurement tools.
• Implemented bespoke functionalities for layer styling, filtering, and sorting to support regulatory compliance and risk management.
• Facilitated cross-functional collaboration to ensure alignment on safety, usability, and operational requirements.
• Delivered a scalable internal platform that improved efficiency, reduced operational risk, and standardized pipeline monitoring processes.

Oversaw the full digital transformation of Sweet Paris’ brand and franchise websites, managing a multidisciplinary team to enhance UI/UX, e-commerce functionality, and overall online presence, resulting in measurable business growth.

• Directed the redesign of the main website and franchise portal, ensuring cohesive branding and intuitive user experience across platforms.
• Guided the integration of e-commerce features via ToastTab, Google Reviews, and social media feeds to improve conversions and engagement.
• Implemented analytics tools to monitor visitor behavior and content engagement to inform marketing and site improvements.
• Collaborated with stakeholders to align digital strategy with business objectives, supporting franchise expansion and enhanced web visibility.

Led the development and UI/UX redesign of Vapor Point’s website, overseeing a multidisciplinary team and integrating interactive 3D models to showcase the company’s environmental technology portfolio.

• Led the development and UI/UX redesign of Vapor Point’s website, overseeing a multidisciplinary team and integrating interactive 3D models to showcase environmental technology solutions.
• Directed a 3D-enhanced web experience, collaborating with product designers to accurately represent complex technology solutions online.
• Managed full-stack web development using Node.js, GitHub, Heroku, and Cloudflare for performance, security, and reliability.
• Integrated Salesforce for lead management and optimized SEO to drive engagement and conversion.
• Delivered measurable increases in engagement and lead generation through an immersive digital platform.

Led the development of interactive websites for multiple public health initiatives, translating complex healthcare objectives into engaging digital experiences for community outreach and education.

• Managed full project lifecycle including stakeholder communication, UX/UI design, web development, and coordination with community outreach teams.
• Developed platforms for campaigns including Own Every Piece, Harris SAVES, All For Them, and Take Care Texas.
• Implemented user-centered design and interactive tools to improve accessibility, engagement, and comprehension of critical health information.
• Delivered scalable and maintainable solutions that strengthened UT Health’s digital outreach.

Led the UI/UX and website development for JFJC, creating a digital platform to support the BrainAbouts program and expand youth outreach through schools nationwide.

• Managed a multidisciplinary team to design and implement a WordPress-based website optimized for event management, donations, and curriculum dissemination.
• Oversaw front-end and back-end development, ensuring a responsive, secure, and scalable platform hosted on WP Engine.
• Collaborated with nonprofit stakeholders to align digital strategy with program objectives, increasing adoption of the BrainAbouts curriculum.
• Enhanced online engagement and user experience, enabling efficient program participation and community interaction.

Led the UI/UX design and website development for Remember The Fallen, a nonprofit supporting families of fallen first responders, creating a secure, accessible, and donor-focused online platform.

• Directed a multidisciplinary team to redesign the nonprofit’s website on WordPress, ensuring scalability and intuitive UX.
• Implemented secure donation processing through Stripe and optimized performance with WP Engine hosting and Cloudflare CDN.
• Enhanced search visibility and integrated a merchandise shop to expand fundraising capabilities and engagement.
• Delivered a responsive, user-centric platform that strengthened donor engagement and amplified mission impact.

Oversaw the UI/UX design and website development for Lead ‘n Glass, enhancing their e-commerce capabilities and overall digital presence while collaborating closely with company stakeholders.

• Led a multidisciplinary team to redesign the website using WordPress and WooCommerce, creating a scalable, intuitive online store.
• Ensured seamless integration of product catalogs, secure payment gateways, and inventory workflows.
• Implemented a responsive interface optimized across devices, improving shopping experience and customer engagement.
• Delivered a platform that supported business growth and helped the company secure financing for a new facility.

Designed and developed MatLearn, a web-based machine learning platform to assist chemists in predicting new chemical compounds and guiding solid-state synthesis. Led the integration of ML models, data visualization, and web development to accelerate material discovery.

• Developed interactive predictive tools using Flask, Python, scikit-learn, and Matplotlib to model binary and ternary chemical systems.
• Built a responsive front-end for intuitive interaction and visualization of chemical formation predictions.
• Hosted and maintained the platform on AWS for scalable access and reliable performance.
• Collaborated with chemists to translate research objectives into functional, user-friendly platform capabilities.

Oversaw the end-to-end digital transformation of SESCO Cement’s website, managing a multidisciplinary team to deliver an interactive, user-focused platform that reflects the company’s leadership in sourcing, manufacturing, and distribution.

• Directed UI/UX, front-end development, and website architecture to modernize and enhance online presence.
• Guided implementation of interactive features including a GIS-enabled Find a Dealer tool.
• Optimized product showcasing and e-commerce SEO while maintaining a minimalistic professional aesthetic.
• Aligned the platform with brand strategy, content accuracy, and business objectives.

Led the end-to-end digital transformation of Westbrook Energy Group’s web presence, including three separate company websites, overseeing UI/UX design, development, and strategy. Collaborated with stakeholders and internal teams to modernize the digital footprint, resulting in enhanced visibility and successful acquisition by a VC group.

• Directed development of Westbrook Manufacturing, Federal Flange, and related sites with consistent branding and user-friendly design.
• Oversaw front-end and back-end development using Node.js, Heroku, Cloudflare, and GitHub for scalable, secure performance.
• Enhanced UX through intuitive navigation, interactive product catalogs, and streamlined request-for-quote systems.
• Implemented analytics to measure impact, including a +220% increase in daily impressions for Federal Flange post-launch.
• Aligned digital initiatives with business goals, supporting a successful acquisition by a VC group.

Developed and led the creation of a high-impact virtual reality experience celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, showcased at Space Center Houston. Oversaw concept development, software direction, hardware setup, booth design, and on-site execution.

• Conceived creative direction, user flow, environment layout, and interactive experience design.
• Led Unity development and coordinated with stakeholders to align technical execution with brand goals.
• Designed physical booth layout and managed VR hardware integration, calibration, and event-day operations.
• Scaled from one to two headsets due to demand; achieved 1,100+ participants and an estimated 80,000+ social impressions.
• Supported measurable business growth for the sponsor (+5.2% equity and +4.2% deposit growth per 2019 Annual Report).

Led the UI/UX design and mobile app development for Gateway to Hope, a faith-based mental health education platform, creating an intuitive, accessible resource for trainees, teachers, and affiliates.

• Directed cross-platform mobile development for iOS and Android, integrating videos, quizzes, and PDFs.
• Oversaw integration with Quickbase and LearnDash APIs for referral networks and course access.
• Collaborated with stakeholders and subject-matter experts to align functionality with user needs and organizational goals.
• Delivered a secure, scalable platform supporting education, community engagement, and operational efficiency.

Led the creation of an AI-powered national recruiting platform to solve a critical shortage of skilled automotive technicians across 200+ franchise locations. Directed platform strategy, UX layout, AI integration, SEO structure, and talent-funnel optimization.

• Developed an early (2019) AI-enhanced recruiting site integrating IBM Watson for job matching and applicant guidance.
• Designed UX, site architecture, and content flow aligned with company culture and values.
• Leveraged SmartRecruiters APIs to build a dynamic job search engine with city-level indexing for local SEO.
• Improved applicant engagement and conversions, supporting long-term recruiting ROI and retention.
• Platform received industry recognition and an award for innovation in recruitment technology (2019).

Led the end-to-end digital transformation of Hollander’s multi-brand online ecosystem, overseeing the strategy, design, and development of four interconnected websites spanning wholesale glass supply, architectural doors, fused glass art, and historic restoration materials.

• Directed the creation of a unified digital platform supporting multiple brands, including Hollander Specialty Glass, Bevel King Doors, Hollander Fusing Center, and Hollander Historic.
• Led UI/UX strategy and information architecture to unify brand identity while preserving the unique positioning of each business line.
• Oversaw full-stack development and infrastructure using GitHub for version control, Heroku for deployment, and Cloudflare for security and global performance.
• Implemented e-commerce and commerce-adjacent workflows using Shopify and custom solutions, enabling product discovery, dealer access, member pricing, and inquiry-based purchasing.
• Designed and delivered interactive digital experiences, including product visualization tools, filtered catalogs, event scheduling systems, and educational content platforms.
• Optimized SEO, performance, and responsive behavior across all properties, significantly improving discoverability, engagement, and conversion pathways.
• Collaborated closely with executive stakeholders, artisans, and operations teams to align digital execution with craftsmanship, history, and long-term business goals.

Directed the UI/UX and mobile application development for HFC, creating a community-driven platform for hunting and fishing enthusiasts, available on iOS and Android.

• Led development with React Native to ensure seamless cross-platform functionality.
• Integrated mapping and geolocation features for marking and exploring locations.
• Built community features including discussion boards and photo-sharing to increase engagement.
• Aligned technology decisions with startup goals and community-building objectives.

Spearheaded the initial design, development, and launch of a mobile app and web-based loyalty & rewards platform, leading a small team from concept to live production.

• Oversaw product lifecycle: UI/UX planning, React-based web development, and stakeholder coordination.
• Managed core architecture and early development for a customizable loyalty system with dashboards and analytics.
• Delivered an MVP from idea to launch in ~5 months, establishing a foundation for scalability and eventual rebranding as RepeatMD.
• Bridged entrepreneurship, technical execution, and product-market fit in early-stage development.

Led the UI/UX design and web development of PrinGroup’s commercial real estate platform, improving property listing functionality, SEO performance, and user engagement.

• Redesigned the site with a responsive interface and integrated property search features.
• Implemented WordPress architecture with WP Engine hosting and Cloudflare CDN for performance and security.
• Enhanced SEO and indexing to increase organic traffic, lead generation, and property sales.
• Aligned digital tools with business objectives and improved the client discovery experience.

Military Experience

Attached to United States Marine Corps infantry and reconnaissance units providing frontline medical coverage, casualty care, training, and health readiness for combat-operational forces. Graduated top of class at Corps School and competitively selected for advanced reconnaissance support duties.

• Earned Enlisted Fleet Marine Force Warfare Specialist (FMF) qualification demonstrating full capability supporting Marine Corps combat operations and field medical readiness.
• Selected for assignment to 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion providing medical support during high-tempo training and dive/jump operations.
• Awarded multiple Letters of Appreciation for leadership, initiative, and professional performance.
• Served as Education Petty Officer at Naval Hospital Corps School; led peer study programs and improved overall class academic performance.
• Delivered instruction to Marines on trauma care, CPR, IV administration, bleeding control, heat and cold injuries, and other lifesaving procedures.
• Supported reconnaissance dive operations including dive physicals, safety checks, and medical screening tasks under Dive Medical Officer supervision.
• Conducted operational medical support in austere environments including jungle medicine and survival familiarization training in Thailand.