Nicki James Shepherd
- Lecturer
- Researcher
- Consultant
Teaching the next generation of computing professionals.
Nicki James Shepherd is a Computing Lecturer at Burnley College University Centre with an MRes in Artificial Intelligence. Eight peer-reviewed publications spanning AI, cybersecurity, and law. Background in software engineering across the public and private sectors.
Associated with:
[ABOUT]
Nicki James Shepherd:
An Experienced educator with industry depth.
Nicki is currently delivering undergraduate computing modules across BSc Computing, BSc Computing and Cyber Security, and Digital Technology Solutions degree apprenticeships at Burnley College University Centre, in partnership with Buckinghamshire New University.
Acting as a key liaison between the College and external university partners including the University of Greater Manchester, with responsibility for academic standards, curriculum alignment, and quality assurance across collaborative provision.
Previously an Associate Lecturer at the University of Surrey, teaching across Computing, IT, and Education programs at a research-intensive Russell Group university while completing an MRes in Artificial Intelligence.
[EXPERTISE]
My core areas of
teaching & practice
From AI research to real-world consulting, I design and deliver
learning experiences that create measurable impact.
learning experiences that create measurable impact.
Programming & Software Development
Python, algorithms, data structures, and software engineering principles through hands-on lab sessions.
Web Development
Full-stack web technologies - HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP. Responsive, standards-compliant applications.
Database Systems
SQL, MySQL, and database design. Relational architecture, query optimization, and data management.
Cybersecurity
Penetration testing with Kali Linux, SQL injection, Active Directory security, and network defense.
AI & Machine Learning
Machine learning, neural networks, and applied AI. Active researcher in AI ethics and legal tech.
Networking & Cloud
Network fundamentals, cloud computing architectures, and infrastructure management.
IoT & Emerging Tech
Internet of Things, embedded systems, and robotics integration across emerging applications.
Agile & IT Management
Agile methodologies, CI/CD pipelines, project management, and business information systems.
[Technical Skills]
Tools and technologies I use to
build and deliver.
Nicki James Shepherd is generally proficient across programming languages, frameworks, and platforms - from
frontend development and databases to cybersecurity tools and AI/ML libraries.
Python
Python is a versatile, high-level programming language known for its simple, English-like syntax and emphasis on code readability.
HTML / CSS / JavaScript
HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are the three core technologies of the World Wide Web. Together, they allow developers to create everything from simple text pages to complex, interactive web applications.
SQL / MySQL
SQL (Structured Query Language) is the standard programming language used to interact with databases, while MySQL is a specific database management system that uses SQL to handle data.
PHP
PHP is a widely used, open-source, server-side scripting language designed primarily for web development. It powers over 78% of websites, including platforms like WordPress.
Linux / Kali
Kali Linux is an open-source, Debian-based operating system specifically designed for penetration testing, ethical hacking, and digital forensics. It is developed and maintained by OffSec.
Selenium / CI-CD
Integrating Selenium into a CI/CD (Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment) pipeline automates the execution of web application tests, ensuring that UI regressions are caught immediately after code changes.
[PUBLICATIONS BY NICKI JAMES SHEPHERD]
Research and scholarly output.
[Latest Posts]
Latest blogs from my work
Sharing ideas, research, and practical perspectives on artificial intelligence,
education, and digital transformation.
Consulting
How I can help your organization.
Partnering with teams to deliver research-driven insights, practical solutions, and impactful learning experiences.
Partnering with teams to deliver research-driven insights, practical solutions, and impactful learning experiences.
AI Strategy & Implementation
Python, algorithms, data structures, and software engineering principles through hands-on lab sessions.
Cybersecurity Review
Security posture assessment, penetration testing consultation, and staff awareness training. Experience with public sector security requirements.
Curriculum & Training Design
Computing curriculum development, module design, and technical training programmes. Aligned to industry standards and academic frameworks.
Agile & Digital Transformation
Process improvement, Agile adoption, automated testing strategy, and CI/CD pipeline design for development teams.
[SPEAKING]
Talks, panels, and guest lectures.
Available for conference keynotes, panel discussions, guest lectures, and workshop facilitation across AI, cybersecurity, computing education, and legal tech.
Invite me to speak
I speak on topics including AI and algorithmic justice, cybersecurity education, computing curriculum design, and the intersection of law and technology. Happy to discuss formats and topics.
