Michael Ferrante
Michael is passionate about creating software that frees people from mundane tasks so they can focus on tackling new and greater challenges. With a background in chemistry and molecular modeling, he is adept at piecing together the individual components of a complex technology system to make it run effectively.
Michael started writing computer programs for his father’s business while he was still in elementary school. After teaching science in Zimbabwe for two years as a Peace Corps volunteer and earning his chemistry degree from Reed College in 1995, Michael gravitated toward information technology. He has more than 14 years of experience as a web programmer, system administrator and senior software engineer.
Since joining Sitka Technology Group in early 2009, Michael has helped with ongoing development of a project management software system for the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) that is improving the timeliness, accuracy, consistency, and visibility of budget decisions in BPA’s Environment, Fish and Wildlife division. Michael was instrumental in relocating this hosted software environment from California to Sitka’s offices in Portland—a move that has yielded lower management costs, higher performance, more efficient technical development and improved monitoring.
“As people and organizations discover what they can do with technology, they start thinking on a whole new level,” he says. “It’s like a flower opening up.”
Michael, his wife and their two children live in Portland. Their favorite activities include hiking, backpacking, skiing and bicycling. Michael also plays guitar, piano and harmonica.
