Matt Gardner

I help fast-moving teams build scalable, developer-friendly platforms that don't suck.

Developer Experience & Platform Engineering Leader

👋 Hey, I'm Matt

I've spent 20+ years building scalable software systems, leading developer teams, and helping businesses grow smarter with AI and automation. I've led DevRel, shaped APIs at scale, and love simplifying complexity so great teams can move fast.

What I Bring

Experience & Expertise

  • 20+ years of building and scaling real systems
  • Deep experience across Apple, devtools, telecom, and startups
  • DevRel leadership bridging product, marketing, and engineering

Leadership & Mindset

  • Founder mindset: speed, clarity, outcomes
  • Track record of shipping and mentoring
  • Expert at simplifying complex systems

Featured Experience

Apple
Yahoo
Buffer
8x8
Sidestep
BrightRoll

And many more companies building developer platforms and tools

What I've Built

JobTracker.pro

A modern job search management tool designed for tech professionals. Features application tracking, company research integration, and analytics to help job seekers stay organized and strategic about their search.

Ruby on Rails TypeScript Stripe Docker
Try JobTracker

KidQuest.xyz

KidQuest is a platform for parents to find and book activities for their kids. It's a simple, user-friendly platform that allows parents to find activities for their kids, earn points, and redeem them for rewards.

Next.js OpenAI Supabase Stripe
Visit KidQuest.xyz

Teen Tech Camp

Teen Tech Camp is a summer camp for teens to learn about technology and coding. It's a fun, interactive way to learn about technology and coding.

Next.js OpenAI Stripe Tailwind CSS
Visit Teen Tech Camp

Latest Post

Read more on Substack

Thinking About Retiring?

If you're a business owner in the Annapolis area considering retirement, I'm interested in hearing your story. Let's have a conversation about your legacy and the future of what you've built.

Learn More About Selling Your Business

🎙️ The Noob Show

A Podcast About Learning in Public

Join me and my co-hosts as we explore the journey of learning new technologies, sharing our experiences, and building in public. From coding challenges to career transitions, we discuss the real stories behind becoming a "noob" in tech.

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I believe great teams ship faster when they trust each other, use the right tools, and cut through noise. I love helping companies build those systems — and I'll bring that same energy to your team.

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Why Work With Me

I've Walked the Walk

Built products from scratch, scaled infrastructure, debugged the hard stuff, and turned ideas into outcomes. This gives you instant credibility and empathy with engineers.

Developer Experience Is in My DNA

Fundamentally care about improving how engineers work — from DevEx and CI/CD to onboarding and API design. Built tools that make engineers faster and happier.

I Bridge the Gap

Speak both code and customer. Whether it's aligning with execs on KPIs or coaching engineers on product impact, you know how to translate strategy into action.

Builder of Teams

Understand the importance of culture, trust, and clarity. Mentor, lead by example, and design systems where people do their best work.

Relentlessly Pragmatic

Not in love with process for its own sake. Look for what actually helps: reducing friction, simplifying paths, and unblocking teams.

Long-Term Thinker

Care about API consistency, onboarding time, developer happiness, and system resiliency — not just shipping the next sprint.

Let's Work Together

Ready to build something amazing? I'm always open to discussing new projects and opportunities.

Get in Touch