Fort Smith Web Developer

Jacob "Critter" Engel

I'm a 30-year-old passionate full-stack developer and jewelry business owner based in Fort Smith, Arkansas. I specialize in business process automation and e-commerce solutions, creating efficient systems that help local businesses streamline their operations.

Web Development

Since 2021

Jewelry Business

Engel Fine Design

Certifications

ARCA, FreeCodeCamp

Location

Fort Smith, AR

My Journey

2024First Major ContractBusiness Reporting Application

Developed a reporting application that saved the client approximately 20 hours per month by automating manual Excel processes.

2024Node.js/MongoDB CertificationArkansas Code Academy

Completed a 6-month intensive course on Node.js and MongoDB development from January to June.

2023SQL BootcampArkansas Code Academy

Completed SQL Bootcamp certification in November, expanding database management skills.

2022First Client WebsiteOscilation Devices

Built and managed first client Shopify e-commerce website, expanding into professional web development.

2022E-commerce LaunchEngel Fine Design

Applied web development skills to build a Shopify website for my jewelry business.

2021Web Development CertificationFreeCodeCamp.org

Earned Responsive Web Design certification in July, marking the beginning of my web development journey.

Technical Skills

Frontend Development

React
Intermediate
Next.js
Intermediate
Shopify
Advanced
HTML/CSS
Advanced

Backend Development

Node.js
Intermediate
Express
Intermediate
MongoDB
Intermediate
SQL
Intermediate

Business Skills

E-commerce
Advanced
Process Automation
Intermediate
Problem Solving
Advanced
Design
Advanced

My Story

My journey into web development began in 2021 when I completed my first course with FreeCodeCamp.org, earning a certification in Responsive Web Design. This foundation sparked my passion for creating digital solutions for businesses in the Fort Smith area.

In 2022, I applied my newfound skills to my jewelry business, Engel Fine Design, by building and managing a Shopify website. This practical experience led to my first client, Oscilation Devices, for whom I built and continue to manage their e-commerce platform. I've also contributed to other Shopify projects like Myntwave.shop.

To expand my technical expertise, I completed an SQL Bootcamp with Arkansas Code Academy in November 2023, followed by a comprehensive 6-month Node.js/MongoDB course from January to June 2024. This education prepared me for my first major contract in August 2024, where I developed a reporting application that automated manual Excel processes, saving my client approximately 20 hours per month.

Since then, I've designed websites for two tattoo artists and two non-profit organizations in Fort Smith. For my own jewelry business, I built a repair ticketing application that streamlines workflow, reduces liability through photo documentation, and improves customer service with printed repair tickets.

I bring a unique perspective to web development through my experience as a business owner in Fort Smith. I understand firsthand the challenges local businesses face and how technology can solve real-world problems. My dual background in jewelry design and web development gives me a keen eye for detail and aesthetics while maintaining functionality.

Fort Smith Web Development Services

As a Fort Smith web developer, I offer a range of services to help local businesses establish and enhance their online presence:

Custom Website Development - Tailored websites built with modern technologies like React and Next.js
E-commerce Solutions - Online stores built on Shopify or custom platforms
Business Process Automation - Custom applications to streamline your workflows
Web Application Development - Interactive web apps for specific business needs
Website Maintenance - Ongoing support and updates for existing websites
SEO Optimization - Improving your website's visibility in search engines

I'm committed to helping Fort Smith businesses thrive in the digital landscape. Whether you need a simple website or a complex web application, I'm here to help you achieve your goals.