Josh’s passion for technology started early. While other kids were out riding bikes, he was busy taking computers apart and putting them back together. His early interest in coding with BASIC set the stage for his future.
At Grand Valley State University, he led a team in a national cyber defense competition. After graduating from GVSU’s Honors College, Josh went on to earn a master’s in Computer Science and Engineering from Michigan State University, where his thesis focused on firewall fingerprint identification. His career really took off when he joined GE’s Edison Engineering Development Program (EEDP), sparking his passion for software and entrepreneurship.
In 2010, Josh co-founded Michigan Software Labs with Mark Johnson. Since then, they have built a team of talented designers, developers, and digital product experts who solve complex business problems and strategically guide clients’ digital transformation efforts.
As the company has evolved, so has Josh’s role. Moving from hands-on development to focusing on strategy and execution, he leads the company by integrating technology with business strategy. His background in systems architecture and development helps him tackle problems with a broad, systems-level perspective, making sure that technology solutions align well with business goals.
Josh is dedicated to not only delivering great software but also offering valuable business insights and consulting. He combines strong technology with smart change management and solid business strategies to help clients succeed. By understanding their business models and competitive advantages, he helps them see new perspectives.
As a leader, Josh values the diverse perspectives and expertise within his team. He’s committed to supporting individual growth and aligning personal development with the company’s goals.
Outside of work, Josh enjoys golfing, mountain biking, and cheering on his children in their sports and extracurricular activities. He is actively involved in the community, serving on the boards of Priority Health, The Right Place, Inc., and the Ada Parks Committee—reflecting his commitment to regional growth. Josh’s achievements have been recognized with a 40 Under 40 award from the Grand Rapids Business Journal.
When it comes to custom software, it’s easy to feel stuck between needing to deliver value quickly, while also ensuring meaningful, long-lasting results. Learn why the Business Model Canvas can help you identify the right digital product for your business needs.
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Grand Valley State University is launching a work-and-learning program with five inaugural West Michigan-based partners designed to accelerate the connection between talent and employers. The partners invest in GVSU students who become employees during college and after graduation.
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In Art’s Principles, renowned architect Art Gensler described part of his Design Thinking consultation process as “finding the right problem to solve.” This resonated with me, particularly as I’ve thought about how Michigan Software Labs interacts with clients in the Product Strategy Phase; something I believe sets us apart from other software development companies.
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