Meet Matt Spurlock | CEO at CKS Developers

We had the good fortune of connecting with Matt Spurlock and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Matt, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I decided to start my own business, it wasn’t just a career move—it was a calling. I’ve spent most of my life immersed in technology, always curious and excited about solving problems in creative ways. Over the years, I realized that I wasn’t just passionate about building software; I was passionate about building relationships. I wanted to create something that combined my love for technology with my desire to help businesses grow and succeed.

Starting my business wasn’t about chasing a dream of being my own boss; it was about doing things the right way, the first time, with a level of care and commitment that’s often missing in the industry. I wanted to work directly with clients, understand their unique challenges, and deliver solutions that not only meet their needs but exceed their expectations. For me, every project is personal—I don’t just complete it; I see it through to success.

At the same time, I wanted to create a business that reflects who I am—a mix of fun and focus. I love what I do, and I want that energy to show in every interaction, whether I’m brainstorming with a client, solving a complex problem, or mentoring someone new to the team. But when it’s time to get down to work, I’m all in. I believe in delivering excellence and ensuring that every detail is accounted for. It’s not just about the results; it’s about the process and the pride in doing things right.

Starting my own business was my way of making sure that the values I hold dear—integrity, hard work, and a genuine love for the craft—are at the heart of everything I do. It’s been a challenging journey, but it’s one I wouldn’t trade for anything because it’s a reflection of who I am and the legacy I want to leave.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At CKS Developers, we specialize in custom software development designed to meet the exact needs of our clients. What sets us apart is our ability to become an extension of our clients’ teams. We don’t just deliver software; we build partnerships, taking the time to understand each business, their goals, and the challenges they face. Our approach is rooted in providing tailored solutions, integrating existing tools, and ensuring every project is executed with precision and care.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the trust our clients place in us. We’ve built long-term relationships with businesses across various industries, helping them solve complex problems and grow in ways they didn’t think possible. Each successful project represents not just hard work but the shared vision and collaboration between us and our clients. That’s what excites me most—helping others achieve their potential through innovative software solutions.

Getting to where we are today wasn’t easy. Starting a business from the ground up meant facing challenges like building a client base, managing growth, and maintaining quality at every step. But I’ve always believed in doing things the right way, even when it’s harder or takes longer. Overcoming these challenges required persistence, a commitment to excellence, and a willingness to adapt. Every obstacle taught me a lesson—whether it was about communication, project management, or the importance of having the right people by my side.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that success is about more than just technical skill—it’s about trust, relationships, and being someone others can rely on. I’ve also learned the importance of resilience. Building a business takes time, and setbacks are inevitable. What matters is how you respond, learn, and grow from those experiences.

What I want the world to know about CKS Developers is that we’re not just another software company. We’re a team that genuinely cares about our clients and their success. Our brand stands for integrity, quality, and collaboration. We aim to deliver solutions that not only solve problems but also empower businesses to thrive. And on a personal level, I want people to know that this business represents more than just my work—it’s a reflection of my values and the legacy I want to leave behind.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Temescal Valley, CA, for a week, I’d make sure they got the full Southern California experience, combining the best of the outdoors, great food, and a little adventure. Here’s what our week might look like:

Day 1: Exploring Temescal Valley
We’d kick things off with a hike at Sycamore Creek Wilderness Park to take in the beautiful scenery and get a feel for the area. Afterward, we’d grab lunch at The Original Roadhouse Grill for some classic comfort food. In the evening, we’d hang out at Tom’s Farms, a local gem with unique shops, live music, and great food. It’s a perfect place to relax and soak in the local vibe.

Day 2: Wine Country and Relaxation
Temecula Valley is just a short drive away, so we’d spend the day wine tasting at a few of my favorite spots, like Wilson Creek Winery (don’t miss their almond champagne) and Ponte Winery for lunch with a view. We’d end the day with dinner at The Goat & Vine, known for their wood-fired pizzas and delicious cocktails.

Day 3: Beach Day in Laguna
What’s a trip to Southern California without a beach day? We’d head out to Laguna Beach, which is about an hour away, for some sun and ocean fun. We’d grab a casual lunch at The Cliff Restaurant, perched right over the water. In the evening, we’d explore the art galleries and maybe even catch a sunset dinner at Driftwood Kitchen.

Day 4: Disneyland or California Adventure
No visit to SoCal is complete without a little Disney magic. We’d spend the day at Disneyland or California Adventure in Anaheim, enjoying rides, shows, and plenty of churros! For dinner, we’d hit up Downtown Disney, where there’s a variety of great dining options.

Day 5: Local Adventure and Breweries
Back in the area, we’d check out Skull Canyon Ziplines for a little adrenaline rush. Afterward, we’d cool off with a brewery tour in the area, like Dos Lagos Brewery or Stone Church Brewing. Dinner would be at Luna Modern Mexican Kitchen, a local favorite with amazing margaritas and creative dishes.

Day 6: Big Bear or Lake Arrowhead Escape
We’d take a day trip up to the mountains for some fresh air and scenic beauty. Lake Arrowhead is perfect for a relaxing day by the water, or if they’re up for more adventure, we’d head to Big Bear Lake for kayaking or hiking. On the way back, we’d grab a bite at The Tudor House, a unique historic spot.

Day 7: Chill Day and BBQ at Home
After a busy week, the last day would be all about relaxing. We’d hang out in the backyard, enjoy the sunny weather, and fire up the Kamado Joe for a proper BBQ feast. It’s the perfect way to end the trip, sharing good food and great conversation.

Southern California has so much to offer, and this itinerary would showcase the best of what makes this area so special: the natural beauty, great food and drink, and the kind of experiences that create lasting memories.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
When I think about the people and experiences that have shaped my journey, I’m filled with gratitude. First and foremost, I want to thank my wonderful parents, who gave me countless opportunities during my childhood and instilled in me the work ethic and determination that guide me every day. Their unwavering support has been a cornerstone of my success.

I also want to give special recognition to my late Uncle Herb, whose influence on my life has been profound. When I was just 12 years old, he encouraged me to learn HTML, which was cutting-edge at the time. Little did I know that his simple nudge would spark a lifelong passion for technology and ultimately shape the future I’ve built for myself.

A huge shoutout goes to my friend Brad Costello, who has provided me with incredible guidance and opportunities throughout my career. Brad is someone I deeply admire and respect, and it’s an honor to call him my friend. His faith in me and the doors he’s opened have played a significant role in my professional growth.

Most importantly, I want to recognize my beautiful wife of seven years, Sami Spurlock. Sami’s unwavering love and support have been a driving force behind everything I’ve accomplished. She always believes in me and pushes me to be the best version of who I can be. Her encouragement has helped me achieve heights I never thought possible, and for that, I am endlessly grateful.

To all of these incredible people—thank you for being part of my story. Your love, guidance, and support mean the world to me, and I carry your influence with me every step of the way.

Website: https://cksdevs.com