AI THAT

Currently: ACCEPTING PROJECTS

How I Work

My background in social work (MSW, policy analysis) means I understand human behavior, not just algorithms. I build AI that respects users, not just impresses them.

Over 12 years building production systems across startups, enterprise, and government. Technical Lead and Staff Engineer experience. Currently Lead Application Engineer at the State of Minnesota while running LOW LEVEL MAGIC as a creative AI practice. MSW (WashU) and BA (Macalester). Empathy Driven Development.

Full Technical Background

View complete engineering credentials, technical stack, and professional history

ericstiens.dev

What Makes This Different

MSW Background

Trained in understanding human systems, behavior, and ethical frameworks. I don't just build what's technically possible—I build what people will actually want to engage with, repeatedly, over time.

Production Experience

I've deployed systems that run for months handling thousands of live interactions. I know the difference between a demo that works in your office and a system that survives contact with real audiences in dust storms and blizzards.

Artistic Vision

My projects have made people cry, laugh, and stay engaged for hours. I understand narrative pacing, emotional beats, and how to create moments that matter—not just generate content.

The Process

01

Discovery

Understanding your creative vision, audience expectations, and technical constraints. What are you actually trying to make people feel? What would make this unforgettable?

02

Architecture

Designing systems that balance narrative depth with operational resilience. Character memory structures, interaction flows, cost optimization, and graceful degradation when things go wrong.

03

Build

Rapid iteration on character behavior, interaction patterns, and system integration. Testing with real users early and often. Building the feedback loops that make characters feel alive.

04

Deploy

Getting it live with proper monitoring, fallback systems, and cost controls. Setting up escalation paths for when the AI needs human backup. Making sure your team can manage it.

05

Monitor

Tracking both technical metrics (latency, costs, errors) and subjective qualities (character authenticity, audience engagement). Iterating on behavior based on what actually resonates.

Engagement Models

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Staff Augmentation

Rates

$250/hour

$8,000/week

$25,000/month

Available For

  • ▸ Technical leadership
  • ▸ AI architecture
  • ▸ Complex integrations
  • ▸ Backend systems

Embed me in your team for ongoing development and strategic guidance.

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Project Contracts

Pricing

Custom bid based on scope

Best For

  • ▸ Interactive installations
  • ▸ Character systems
  • ▸ Custom AI experiences
  • ▸ Narrative-driven systems

Fixed scope with clear deliverables and timeline. Great for defined creative visions.

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Consulting

Structure

Flexible hourly or retainer

Ideal For

  • ▸ Strategic guidance
  • ▸ Prototype review
  • ▸ Technical validation
  • ▸ Architecture decisions

Need a second opinion or strategic partner? Let's talk through your approach.

Discounts Available

Long-term commitments, non-profit organizations, and open-source projects all qualify for reduced rates. Let's talk about making this work.

Common Questions

How quickly can you start?

I typically have availability within 2-4 weeks for new projects. Rush projects may be possible—let's talk about your timeline and I'll let you know what's realistic.

Do you work remotely or on-site?

Both. I'm based in Minneapolis and available for remote collaboration nationwide. For installations and events, on-site work is absolutely possible—let's discuss logistics.

What if our project needs expertise you don't have?

I have a network of collaborators (hardware engineers, 3D artists, sound designers) I can bring in for specialized needs. You get one point of contact; I handle coordination.

Can you help us figure out if our idea is even possible?

Yes—that's exactly what the consulting engagement is for. We can do a 2-4 hour feasibility assessment before committing to a full project. Better to find out early than waste time on the impossible.

Ready to Start?

Whether you have a fully-formed vision or just the spark of an idea, let's talk about what you're building.

Start a Conversation Email Directly

Also available for weddings and birthday parties.