Michael Girdley

Michael Girdley is the Chairman of the Board and head of strategy at Dura Software. Michael manages the firm’s strategic initiatives including acquisition strategy and growth planning/execution. He also adds technical expertise to Dura’s business operations.

Previously, Michael was Managing Director of the Geekdom Fund, a seed-stage tech venture capital fund with $24 million under management that has invested in over 50 high-growth tech companies.

Michael has also co-founded several tech-related companies and nonprofits: Codeup, Alamo Angels, and the RealCo Accelerator. Prior to diving into San Antonio’s tech sector, Michael was CEO of Alamo Fireworks, the largest retailer of consumer fireworks in Texas. Under his leadership, the family business transitioned from 3rd to 4th generation leadership and grew by over 50%.

Academically, Michael’s background is rooted in technology. He received a BS in Computer Science from Lafayette College. Michael began his career in San Francisco, where he held engineering and marketing roles at RSA Security and BEA WebLogic, where, at age 25, he was the lead product manager for a $300mm business.

Michael serves on the boards of Alamo Angels, Codeup, RealCo Micro VC, Prospectify, and Alamo Fireworks. In 2015, the San Antonio Business Journal named Michael “Man of the Year”. Michael has also authored several books on computer programming which have been translated into four languages.