Christopher Arendt

Embracing the unexplored in code and life.

Welcome! I’m Christopher, a seasoned web developer and aspiring game creator with over a decade of experience. I've navigated through a wide array of tools, from Flash and .NET to Angular and Next.js, always striving to embrace the latest in technology. Join me on my journey as I craft digital solutions and explore the dynamic world of programming. Let’s connect on LinkedIn.

About Me

My journey into programming began as a teenager when I discovered a copy of QBASIC For Dummies. This sparked a lifelong passion for technology, leading me to create my first games and applications and eventually to establish Arendt Digital LLC.

Throughout my career, I’ve worked across diverse industries, from healthcare to entertainment, solving complex problems and delivering innovative solutions. My contributions include creating interactive training tools for the American College of Surgeons, a digital repository for NASA and Henry Ford Hospital, and high-profile web applications for municipal and corporate clients. My work at The Glue LLC includes rebuilding the Pasadena Water & Power site, which streamlined user experience and improved customer engagement.

I specialize in combining creativity with cutting-edge technologies like AI, game engines, and advanced web frameworks. Whether building immersive user experiences or developing scalable solutions, I aim to bridge technical complexity with intuitive design.

Beyond programming, I’m deeply invested in personal growth, from learning new languages (Hungarian and Turkish) to exploring philosophical discussions and gaming with my wife. I’m driven by a love for innovation, always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in web and application development.

Expertise

Technical Proficiencies

With over two decades of hands-on experience in software and web development, I have cultivated a robust skill set across various programming languages, frameworks, and tools:

  • Languages: JavaScript, TypeScript, PHP, C#, C++, HTML, CSS/SCSS/SASS

  • Front-End: React.js, Next.js, Vue.js, Angular, jQuery, Material-UI, Bootstrap

  • Back-End: Node.js, ASP.NET, .NET, PHP, SQL, MySQL, Firebase

  • Mobile & Hybrid Apps: Ionic, Cordova, React Native

  • Game Development: Unity (Certified Associate Programmer), Unreal Engine 5.x

  • CMS & E-commerce: WordPress, Drupal, Shopify

  • API Integration: OpenAI API, Facebook API, Twitter API, OAuth, RESTful APIs

Software & Tools

Proficient with a range of software and tools essential for efficient development and collaboration:

  • IDEs & Editors: IntelliJ IDEA, Visual Studio, PHPStorm, Visual Studio Code

  • Version Control: Git, GitHub, Bitbucket

  • Design & Prototyping: Figma, Adobe Photoshop, Midjourney

  • Project Management: JIRA, Trello, Asana, Slack

  • Build Tools: Webpack, Gulp.js, Grunt

  • Testing & Debugging: Chrome DevTools, BrowserStack

Professional Experience Highlights

Throughout my career, I have worked with renowned clients and contributed to a diverse range of projects:

  • Sony Pictures Interactive: Developed responsive websites, interactive games, and promotional content for major film releases such as Elysium, The Amazing Spider-Man 2, and Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2.

  • Henry Ford Health System: Created web-based applications and tools to enhance patient care and internal processes, including the Audiology Evaluations Web App and Surgical Practice Modules.

  • The Glue LLC: Led front-end development for projects like the City of Pasadena Water and Power website redesign, Los Angeles Animal Services website enhancements, and Metro website redesign, focusing on user experience and accessibility.

  • Game Development: Designed and developed games and interactive experiences using Unity and Unreal Engine, merging my passion for gaming with technical expertise.

  • AI & Innovation Projects: Integrated AI functionalities into web applications, such as the EndleStory infinite storytelling platform, leveraging OpenAI's APIs to create dynamic user experiences.

Certifications & Education

  • Unity Certified Associate: Programmer

  • Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming: Macomb Community College (Certificate in C++ Programming)

Soft Skills

Beyond technical expertise, I bring critical soft skills that enhance team collaboration and project success:

  • Problem-Solving: Proven ability to analyze complex problems and implement effective solutions efficiently.

  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous in code quality and design, ensuring robust and high-performing applications.

  • Creativity: Leveraging a background in game development and AI to innovate and deliver engaging user experiences.

  • Communication: Effective communicator with experience collaborating across interdisciplinary teams and directly with clients.

  • Adaptability: Quick learner with the ability to adapt to new technologies and methodologies.

Experience

Owner

Arendt Digital LLC

1999 - Present

As the founder and owner of Arendt Digital LLC, I have led the development of a diverse portfolio of digital products, including applications, games, and websites. My work spans both client-driven projects and personal initiatives, demonstrating versatility and a commitment to innovation. Key projects include:

  • Bigfoot Football: Developed an HTML5 soccer game for the promotion of "Hotel Transylvania 2," ensuring compatibility across mobile, tablet, and desktop platforms.

  • EndleStory: Created an AI-powered infinite storytelling platform with live streaming capabilities, integrating large language models and text-to-speech technologies.

  • WordSense: Designed a comprehensive language-learning application leveraging AI to generate personalized practice content for over 50 languages.

  • Band Together: Built an interactive promotional website for 20th Century Fox's "Red Band Society," incorporating social media integrations and real-time leaderboards.

  • Sony Tumblr & App Store Sites: Developed responsive websites for Sony, enhancing their online presence with dynamic content and user-friendly interfaces.

My role encompasses full-stack development, project management, and creative design, utilizing technologies such as Unity, Unreal Engine, Next.js, React, PHP, and various AI integrations. This position has honed my ability to deliver high-quality digital solutions tailored to diverse client needs and market demands.

Sr. Front End Web Developer

The Glue LLC, Los Angeles, CA (Telecommute)

May 2014 - Mar 2024

At The Glue LLC, I led development on a variety of tools, apps, and websites, primarily for municipal and corporate clients. My work includes projects for the City of Los Angeles, Pasadena Water & Power, The Irvine Company, and LADOT, among others. I have extensive experience in creating high-impact solutions, such as:

  • City of Pasadena Water and Power: Rebuilt the department's WordPress site, streamlining hundreds of pages into a unified structure and integrating features like live outage maps and custom poll systems.

  • City Dot: Developed a SaaS tool for geotag mapping and feedback, leveraging React, Mapbox, and Deck.gl for interactive visualizations.

  • Metro Website Redesign: Overhauled Metro's site, transitioning to WordPress with dynamic trip planners, API integrations, and a user-friendly content management system.

  • Naula: Built a hybrid app for managing fertility treatments, appointments, and medication schedules, utilizing Angular, Ionic, and Redux for offline mode functionality.

This role required mastery of tools and languages like React, TypeScript, Angular, WordPress, SASS, and JavaScript, alongside collaboration with designers, clients, and remote teams.

Contracted Web Developer

Sony Pictures Interactive, Culver City, CA (Telecommute)

July 2012 - April 2014

As a Contracted Web Developer for Sony Pictures Interactive, I was instrumental in developing and maintaining various digital marketing assets for high-profile film releases. My role encompassed end-to-end website and interactive feature development, ensuring seamless user experiences across diverse platforms and regions. Key projects included:

  • International Campaigns: Developed and localized promotional websites for major releases like "Elysium," "Robocop," and "Carrie," targeting audiences in the UK, Australia, and Japan.

  • Interactive Features: Implemented dynamic content and interactive elements like splash pages, social media hubs, and tablet games, enhancing user engagement and brand visibility.

  • Responsive Design: Crafted responsive templates and custom themes for platforms such as Tumblr, ensuring optimal performance and aesthetic consistency across devices.

During my time at Sony Pictures Interactive, I utilized a range of tools and technologies including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, jQuery, and PHP, leveraging frameworks like Tumblr API, Twitter API, and Facebook API to deliver tailored, effective digital experiences aligned with marketing goals.

Junior Programmer

Butler Graphics, Detroit, MI

May 2010 - April 2012

As a Junior Programmer at Butler Graphics, I worked on a wide range of client-facing applications and web platforms for industries including healthcare, education, and design. Notable contributions include:

  • Thermostat Simulation: Developed an interactive, touchscreen-operated thermostat prototype using Flash and ActionScript, featuring animated interfaces and custom keyboards.

  • Surgical Practice Modules: Created interactive study tools for the American College of Surgeons, incorporating video playback engines, progress tracking, and reference content.

  • Audiology Evaluations Web App: Designed a custom iPad-ready application for Henry Ford Health System, featuring automatic data saving and integration with CarePlus for reporting.

Tools and technologies included Flash (AS2/AS3), C#, .NET, SQL Server, and WordPress, showcasing my ability to deliver innovative, high-quality solutions.

Computer Applications & Languages Tutor

Macomb Community College, Warren, MI

September 2007 - June 2010

As a tutor at Macomb Community College, I provided personalized assistance to students in programming and computer applications. This role, which began through a recommendation from my C++ instructor, involved working 10-20 hours weekly in the college library to support students' academic success. Key subjects and tools included:

  • Programming Languages: Raptor (flowchart-based programming), Visual Basic, SQL, C++, Java, Python, HTML, JavaScript.

  • Software Applications: Microsoft Office Suite, including Microsoft Access for database management.

  • Technical Mentorship: Guided students through fundamental and advanced concepts in computer science, enhancing their understanding and confidence.

This position not only allowed me to refine my teaching and communication skills but also connected me to valuable professional opportunities. It was here that I met a friend who referred me to my first full-time programming role at Butler Graphics, kickstarting my career in software development.

Projects

Education

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming

Macomb Community College, Warren, MI

2006 - 2010

I received my Associate's degree in Computer Programming, alongside a certificate for C++ Programming. I consistently achieved high academic performance, as demonstrated by my placement on the Dean's list every semester.