stewdigitals

Stefan Meyer · near cologne, germany ·

Technology has been at the core of my life since early childhood — I built my first website at age 12 and have been immersed in software and system development ever since. From designing secure client-server architectures and custom CRM platforms to leading Magento-based e-commerce projects with integrated ERP and payment solutions, I bring a deeply rooted, hands-on mindset to every challenge. My technical versatility extends beyond code: I also compose music and produce videos, blending creativity with structure in both digital and artistic domains.

Experience

Freelance Software Developer

Over the past two years, I’ve been working independently as a freelance software developer, focusing on building powerful and secure business applications. I developed several fully customized CRM systems with integrated payment solutions such as Stripe, PayPal, and BTCPayServer. Alongside that, I created desktop applications with a client-server architecture, including encrypted heartbeat communication for real-time monitoring and system integrity. My work balanced robust backend logic with clean, intuitive GUIs, using technologies like C++, PHP, and modern frameworks such as Laravel and Slim. During this time, I also invested deeply in strengthening my skills in network programming, data encryption, secure protocols, and clean software architecture — all while applying best practices from agile development.

October 2022 - Present

Software Developer

eCentral GmbH

During my time at eCentral, I focused on high-performance Magento 2 development, including the migration of legacy Magento 1 systems. I implemented advanced frontend and backend features tailored to client needs, maintained servers, ensured platform security, and improved the developer workflow by introducing automated build and deployment pipelines. I also developed custom data import and synchronization scripts, integrated third-party systems like ERP platforms, and worked on debugging and refactoring complex legacy codebases. My role was highly hands-on, with a strong focus on quality, performance, and clean architecture.

August 2021 – October 2022

Software Developer

Oevermann Networks GmbH

At Oevermann, I worked on large-scale Magento 1 and Magento 2 projects for mid-sized and enterprise clients. I was involved in everything from initial planning and technical architecture to implementation and performance tuning. I handled custom module development, theme adjustments, and ERP integrations, and regularly collaborated with clients to find the best technical solutions for their workflows. I also played a key role in setting up scalable development and deployment processes using CI/CD pipelines and helped document internal coding standards to support the growing dev team.

April 2020 – August 2021

Software Developer

milkycode GmbH

At milkycode, I was responsible for developing and maintaining customized Magento 1-based e-commerce platforms. My work covered the full stack: I built complex features, optimized themes and modules, and worked directly with clients to turn business logic into real, working code. I also managed WordPress installations, implementing bespoke designs and plugin solutions. Many of my projects involved integrating third-party APIs and building data-driven backends with a focus on performance and security. Additionally, I helped establish development standards and deployment workflows within the team to improve code quality and consistency.

October 2018 – April 2020

Education

ORBIT GmbH

Apprenticeship as IT Specialist – Application Development (completed)

November 2013 – January 2018

Adolf-Kolping-Berufskolleg

Technical Assistant for Information Technology with entrance qualification for university of applied sciences – Program not completed due to apprenticeship contract

August 2011 – October 2013

Skills

Programming Languages & Tools

C/C++
C#
PHP
HTML5
CSS3
JavaScript
Laravel
Sass
LESS
Magento
Node-JS
Docker
GitHub
GitLab
NPM
Slack
Atlassian Stack
CloudFlare
Microsoft
WordPress
Typo3
Server Management
Discord

Workflow

Mobile-First, Responsive Design (HTML5, CSS3) – Implementing scalable and future-proof web applications using a mobile-first approach for seamless experiences across all devices.
Cross Browser Testing & Debugging (JavaScript, Node.js) – Ensuring cross-browser compatibility and debugging to deliver a smooth and consistent user experience across platforms.
Collaborative Development (GitHub, GitLab, Slack, Atlassian Stack) – Working in cross-functional teams, promoting collaboration through version control, real-time communication, and agile workflows.
Agile Development & Scrum (JIRA, GitLab, Slack, Microsoft) – Agile project management and iterative workflows, ensuring flexibility and efficient delivery of solutions.
Backend Development (PHP, Node.js, C#) – Designing and implementing high-performance backend systems within an integrated workflow, ensuring scalability and security.
Client-Server Architectures (C++, PHP) – Expertise in creating robust and secure client-server architectures, ensuring seamless integration within the workflow and high system reliability.
Software Design & High-Performance Code – Writing optimized code, focusing on performance, security, and scalability, and ensuring the workflow remains efficient and maintainable.
Database Management (MySQL, MariaDB, Microsoft SQL Server) – Managing and optimizing databases for high-performance, scalable solutions, integrating them into the workflow to support dynamic applications.
E-Commerce Development (Magento, WordPress, WooCommerce) – Developing tailored e-commerce solutions with integrated workflows that meet client needs while ensuring scalability and security.
Containerization (Docker) – Utilizing Docker for scalable, reproducible, and efficient development and deployment workflows, ensuring consistency across environments.
Cloud Infrastructure (AWS, CloudFlare) – Implementing cloud-based workflows for high availability, scaling resources on demand while ensuring system reliability and performance.
Creative Problem Solving – Applying technical and creative expertise from my passion for music and video production to develop innovative solutions that enhance workflows.
Positive Mindset & Team Collaboration – Promoting a positive, open environment to foster collaboration, driving successful workflows that yield optimal outcomes.

Interests

Technology has been a defining aspect of my life since childhood and has become an integral part of my identity. At the age of 12, I built my first website, and since then, I have never looked back, fully immersing myself in the world of software and system development. Over the years, I’ve gained extensive experience in designing secure client-server architectures and developing custom CRM platforms. I find it particularly exciting to develop complex backend systems that integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructures. I place great importance on creating solutions that are not only efficient but also scalable and future-proof.

My approach to every project is hands-on, where I maintain a broad perspective while diving deep into the details. My technical expertise goes beyond programming: I have a passion for music composition and video production, which allows me to combine creative ideas with structured, functional solutions. This versatility in both digital and artistic domains enables me to tackle both technical and creative challenges, producing innovative results.

Apart from my technical work, I am known for my consistently positive attitude and rarely let negative moods affect me. I foster a friendly and open environment, which drives me both professionally and personally. I maintain strong social relationships, spend a lot of time with my friends, and place great importance on interpersonal connections. This positive mindset and my involvement in social activities help me stay focused and forward-thinking in every situation.