Mark Johnson

Mark enjoys solving challenges by uniting people around a common goal. As co-founder and partner of Michigan Software Labs, he leads the charge for custom software solutions for clients ranging from middle market to Fortune 500 companies. On the leading edge of technology, culture and innovation, he is a member of the Forbes Technology Council and Fast Company Executive Board. Mark has been named one of the Grand Rapids 200 Most Powerful Business Leaders in West Michigan and one of the 40 under 40 by the Grand Rapids Business Journal. He's considered a Top Mobile Technology Voice by LinkedIn.

It turns out Mark isn’t the only entrepreneur in his family. His great-grandfather started the Forslund Furniture Company in 1935, then grew it to international renown by telling stories about his love for his family and his excellence in craftsmanship. Mark’s goal at MichiganLabs is to continue his grandfather’s legacy of building relationships and providing excellence in craftsmanship.

From an early age, Mark has enjoyed tinkering with technology. He taught himself how to write code at age 11, then developed an HTML website offering snowboarding and wakeboarding advice. The website sold and has since become About.com.

After earning his undergraduate degree from Hope College, Mark received an MBA from Cornerstone University as well as a leadership certificate from Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Today, Michigan Software Labs is recognized as much for its culture as its software solutions. The company has received Inc.’s Best Places To Work award and the Best and Brightest Company to Work For award.

Mark is married and has four young girls. Most evenings are spent playing dress up or princess, even if he’s not quite sure which is which. He enjoys tennis, golf, ping-pong, and most other sports and is actively involved in his church. He is on the advisory board for Tech Week Grand Rapids and the Holland Home.

Personal interests

• Building relationships
• Technology
• Playing princess
• Sports