a little blurb about me
Hello there! My name is Matt Young and I registered this domain back in 2005 claiming by default to be the Chicago Web Guru. Back then, I honestly had no right to own the domain, or act like I was some authority on web anything. I was not a Web Guru by any means. I knew a little HTML and CSS, and knew how to upload my files to a server. Other than that, nada. I kept working at it though, and in 2010 I landed a gig as a front-end contractor for Redbox.
Being among some very talented, pro developers was very enlightening. I immediately realized how much there was to learn, and honestly it made me quite embarrassed to own this domain knowing how undeniably green I was. So, there it was, an overwhelming challenge. I was determined not to give up though, and so I only had one other choice: Become a Web Guru or die trying!
These days, I'm working as a front-end developer at Apartments.com. Never heard of it right? Haha. I'm much more humble and realize that there is still a lot to learn, but I'm proud to say that I feel much more at peace being the owner of this domain. Sure, there are developers out there who could code circles around me, but I feel confident in what I do and I love my job!
some recent stuff i worked on
This website! I used responsive web design with the help of the Skeleton grid system to provide a flexible layout that adjusts to fit the width of your browser window. Change the width of your browser window and watch what happens to this content! This is a great way to design and develop for desktop and mobile at the same time. Check out www.getskeleton.com for more information.
An Object Oriented JavaScript Tutorial with sample HTML pages, tons of comments, and power point. I recently did a lunch and learn at Apartments.com and discussed this topic with my co-developers. Download the tutorial here.
A set of CSS tutorials with HTML sample pages explaining common styling issues.
An AJAX based website prototype for musicians. Includes PHP based schedule updater interface, HTML5 audio player that continues playing as you browse the site, and shopping cart integration with PayPal. Here's a link to the prototype: Chicago Bass Guru.
Lots of JavaScript for Apartments.com's new Property Details page - Coming soon!
I'm currently the lead front end developer on a big project at Apartments.com. We are building an internal/consumer facing application for property ad management.
get in touch
don't feel like filling out another form?
- Call me: 773-206-1618
- Email me: matt@chicagowebguru.com