ABOUT ME
Hi, I’m Michael VanDerwerker.
I’ve spent over a decade turning ideas into working products — from custom APIs and scalable web platforms to cross-platform mobile apps. My career began working with small businesses and startups, where wearing multiple hats was the norm. That fast-paced, problem-solving mindset has stuck with me ever since.
Today, I specialize in building robust, maintainable software that solves real-world problems. I’m known for adapting quickly, integrating seamlessly into teams, and navigating both legacy codebases and greenfield projects with confidence. Whether it’s integrating third-party SDKs, optimizing backend performance, or building an app from scratch, I focus on clean, efficient solutions that scale.
My approach is simple: understand the challenge, choose the right tools, and deliver — one line at a time.
Outside of coding, I’m an avid woodworker. Crafting tangible, lasting things by hand has shaped how I approach software development: focus on the end user, care about the details, and always be ready to adapt.
Programming Languages
PHP, Python, HTML, JavaScript
Hobbies
Woodworking, Cooking, Brewing Beer
Website
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I’m always eager to learn, whether it’s mastering a new programming language or improving my woodworking techniques. My curiosity keeps me exploring new technologies and refining my craft — both in software and in life. Whether collaborating with a team or tackling solo projects, I bring creativity, discipline, and a commitment to building things that last.
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WHAT CAN I DO
Backend Development
Building scalable, secure server-side systems and data architectures that drive reliable web applications.
Frontend Development
Crafting intuitive, responsive user interfaces with a focus on performance, usability, and clean design.
Software Design
Designing efficient, reliable software architectures tailored to unique project needs and future growth.
Security Audits
Evaluating applications and infrastructure to identify vulnerabilities, strengthen defenses, and ensure compliance.
API Development
Developing secure, high-performance APIs that enable seamless integration between systems.
Project Management
Coordinating development workflows, managing teams, and ensuring smooth progress from concept to launch.
TESTIMONIALS
Michael is a true professional. He’s diligent, sharp, and a pleasure to work with. I’d suggest using him for your next project. You will be pleasantly surprised! Jeffrey J.
Michael was great! I had a really complicated project and my schedule was tough to work with. Michael was great about completing tasks and sending over for feedback as soon as I provided him with it. He was very flexible and did an excellent job with the coding of the site, following the artworking guidelines, and making everything work. Definitely recommend working with him.
Ambika S.
Michael is an excellent programmer! He is able to complete work on time and accurately, and has been a pleasure to work with. Will hire again.
John K.
Michael is an absolute expert! His patience and collaborative approach made working on this project a breeze! Michael and I will definitely be working together on an ongoing basis!
Luigi R.
Michael is a pleasure to work with. He is especially skilled at listening to my requirements (I am someone with no coding experience), and then delivering exactly on my brief. He was very open to feedback and always made himself available to my team. I would highly recommend his services, especially if you are someone looking for a partner who can meet you where you are from a technical perspective, and take on the heavy lifting of helping you articulate your goals, and identify the most efficient way to build your app.
Jack J.
Michael is a top notch developer. We’ve been so happy to have him working with us implementing new features, digging into and resolving issues. He’s proactive as he approaches projects and he’s always thinking how to make the system work better with the customer in mind. He also takes criticism well, not taking things personally which goes a long way toward efficiently resolving an issue.
Ben L.
Michael is an excellent dev and great communicator. Our problem is that we just didn’t have enough work for him. He’s a very independent dev and I think he would be best on a from-scratch app build that you need quickly. If he’s available snatch him up.
Ian S.