Steve Ferwerda

Web Developer, Technology Consultant…
Outdoor Enthusiast and Permaculturist

About

Thanks for visiting!My early career began with a series of finance, sales, and marketing jobs along with a few entrepreneurial ventures. In between, I got my MBA from the University of Denver. When the Internet began to gain traction, I jumped headlong because I enjoyed the challenge and opportunities brought on by the Web. Currently, I’m living in the beautiful central mountains of Puerto Rico where I work from home as a contract Web Developer and part-time permaculturist.

Highlights

  • 15+ years of experience building dynamic websites

  • Taught Web Design and Web Programming for 5 years at a community college

  • University of Denver MBA with broad Business and Marketing experience

  • Born and raised in Beirut, Lebanon and travelled extensively.

  • Professional ski instructor, outdoor nut, permaculturist, and avid photographer @RefugioPuertoRico

Web Design & Development

Back-End
I’ve got 15+ years of experience developing dynamic websites for a variety of businesses, including writers and authors, non-profits, higher education, news publications, and the resort industry. I've coded using a variety of Web technologies and frameworks, with particular emphasis on PHP and WordPress. I’ve also got experience working with proprietary frameworks and content management systems including a custom CMS I helped create from scratch while working at a community college.

Front-End
My front end skills and experience include: Javascript/JQueryAjax, CSS/SASS as well as working with a number of client side API's. I've also got extensive experience designing themes and templates from scratch while using frameworks like Bootstrap.

Email, SEO & Marketing
I’ve worked on a number of different email marketing systems and have designed and coded the layout for many e-newsletters as well as been responsible for list configuration and scheduling.
I’ve also got my fair share of experience with Web Usability, Interface Design, SEO, and Website Marketing.

Instruction and Training
I spent 7 years at a community college where I taught Web Design and Development, as well as managed the college website for several years. During my time there, I also created a variety of training programs and developed Web Services documentation for college staff and faculty.

Business & Marketing

Business Development
I’ve created business plans for both successful startups and existing businesses. I even had the opportunity to help develop the master plan and environmental assessment for a small ski area.

Marketing & Media
I’ve developed and written marketing plans for both manufacturing and service companies.
My range of experience includes managing advertising and PR, developing pricing models, developing sales & distribution channels, and producing a variety of collateral and marketing materials. I’ve also written and produced direct mail campaigns. I’ve even designed and helped publish several successful paperback books and e-books.

Finance
Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to develop pro-forma profit/loss statements and balance sheets for both startup and existing businesses. I’ve created estimates and proposals for a variety of media and print projects. I also developed a custom online donation and donor constituent system for a non-­profit organization. I’ve also worked with a variety of electronic accounting systems like Quicken/Quickbooks, Great Plains and Peachtree.

Project Management
I’ve managed the product development, manufacturing, and distribution of several successful retail products. And, of course, I’ve managed highly complex Web projects including building a custom content management system.

Get in touch

I'm not currently taking any new clients, but feel free to get in touch with me.