Meet Noam Eppel: Guiding the Next Generation of Web Developers

Full-stack developers are in high demand across Canada as businesses look for tech-savvy professionals who can bring digital ideas to life. With more companies relying on digital solutions, skilled developers are key to building seamless, user-friendly applications.

That’s where experts like Noam Eppel come in. An entrepreneur, educator, and mentor, Noam is passionate about shaping the next generation of web developers. He’s the Co-Founder and COO of Morpheus.Network, a global automated supply chain platform, and the founder of CleanForest.co, a web development agency. With years of experience in business operations, product strategy, and technology, he also mentors entrepreneurs through the Google for Startups Accelerator.

At McMaster Continuing Education, Noam teaches Front-End Development, helping students build dynamic, user-friendly websites and applications. He takes a hands-on approach, connecting classroom learning to real-world industry needs – covering everything from responsive design and accessibility to performance optimization and modern JavaScript frameworks. Passionate about mentorship, he’s committed to helping students succeed in the fast-moving worlds of tech and marketing.

Expert insights with Noam

What sparked your interest in web development and entrepreneurship? Can you share a bit about your career journey?

From a young age, I was fascinated by technology and how it could be used to solve real-world problems. I started building web pages in 1996, and that early exposure to web development set the foundation for my career. I was drawn to the combination of creativity and logic – being able to build something from scratch and see it come to life was incredibly rewarding.

Entrepreneurship came naturally as I realized that technology wasn’t just about coding; it was about creating solutions with a real-world impact. I founded CleanForest.co, a full-service web development agency, where I worked with multinational corporations, startups, and nonprofits to build scalable, secure, and user-friendly digital solutions. That experience gave me a deep understanding of the business side of technology – how to manage projects, work with clients, and build sustainable digital products.

Later, I co-founded Morpheus.Network, where I took my passion for technology and applied it to global supply chain automation. Morpheus.Network is about solving real-world supply chain inefficiencies, streamlining processes, and leveraging breakthrough technologies like blockchain and AI to make supply chains more efficient and secure.

What are some common challenges students face when learning web development, and how do you help them navigate those?

One of the biggest challenges students face is feeling overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information to learn. From learning how to code HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to working with frameworks, APIs, databases, version control, deployments, performance optimization, security best practices, and more. With so many topics to cover, it’s easy to feel lost or unsure of where to start. I always encourage them to take it step by step. Start with the fundamentals first, then build on that foundation.

I also remind students that every developer, no matter how experienced, encounters bugs and roadblocks. Debugging and problem-solving are core parts of the job, not signs of failure. The key is to stay curious, experiment, and learn from mistakes.

Students often struggle with bridging the gap between theory and practice. That’s why I emphasize hands-on learning – building real projects, collaborating, and applying concepts in practical ways. My goal is to create an environment where students not only learn but also gain confidence in their ability to solve problems and create meaningful digital experiences.

How can students apply the skills they learn in this program to grow their careers or launch their own projects?

Web development is one of the most versatile skills out there. Whether students want to become professional developers, launch their own startups, or enhance their current roles, the skills they gain in this program open up many opportunities. Understanding how websites and applications work can improve collaboration with technical teams and open up leadership opportunities.

Even for those not looking to become full-time developers, web development knowledge builds essential skills that also apply to many other fields. Learning to code strengthens problem-solving abilities, as students break down complex challenges into manageable steps. It also enhances critical thinking, teaching them how to analyze issues logically and develop efficient solutions. Debugging and troubleshooting foster persistence and resilience, skills that are valuable in any career. Additionally, working with structured data, logic, and automation improves organizational and analytical thinking, which can benefit fields like finance, business strategy, and even creative industries. Whether managing projects, optimizing workflows, or improving digital literacy, the skills gained from web development can open doors beyond just tech roles.

No matter their career goals, students who approach learning with curiosity and persistence will find endless possibilities in this field.

What trends or technologies should aspiring developers focus on to stay ahead in the industry?

Aspiring developers should focus on building a strong foundation in problem-solving, adaptability, and continuous learning. Understanding core programming principles, software design patterns, and how to work collaboratively in teams with strong communication skills is essential. Being open to learning new tools, staying updated on industry trends, and thinking critically about how to apply technology to real-world problems are key traits for long-term success.

Web development isn’t just about writing code – it’s about solving problems and creating seamless digital experiences. Ultimately, the best way to stay ahead is to keep building, stay curious, and embrace continuous learning.

Explore McMaster Continuing Education’s online programs in Full-Stack Development and Front-End Development to take the next step in your tech or marketing career.