Founded in 2012, Makesail Solutions operates as a DBA of District M Creative, a Northern Virginia-based consulting firm specializing in cutting-edge software development, data engineering, and SharePoint solutions. Our industry-leading consultants are dedicated to solving complex technology and data challenges with precision, agility, and innovation.

With a strong foundation in both federal and commercial sectors, we deliver high-impact solutions that automate processes, streamline operations, and drive digital transformation. Our expertise empowers clients to maximize efficiency, reduce costs, and achieve sustainable growth.

At Makesail, we are unwavering in our commitment to quality, professional excellence, and long-term client success and we continue to evolve with emerging technologies and industry best practices ensuring our clients always stay ahead of the curve.

We proudly serve organizations across the nation from our headquarters just outside Washington, D.C.

RACHEL MERKLE | PRESIDENT AND CEO   

LEADERSHIP

Rachel Merkle is the founder, president and CEO of Makesail Solutions, a Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB) established in 2012 under the name District M Creative. She started her company at 26 years old and is a 40 under 40 award recipient, leading all aspects of the organization’s operations, from strategic planning and compliance to infrastructure development and process management. Under her leadership, Makesail has expanded its capabilities to support both government and commercial sectors, including work with the U.S. Department of Defense and a specialty in
eDiscovery legal software customization.

She is a graduate of James Madison University and is passionate about building exceptional teams, mentoring future leaders, and creating infrastructure that supports business success.

Rachel Merkle is the founder, president and CEO of Makesail Solutions,  a Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB) established in 2012 under the name District M Creative. She started her company at 26 years old and is a 40 under 40 award recipient, leading all aspects of the organization’s operations, from strategic planning and compliance to infrastructure development and process management. Under her leadership, Makesail has expanded its capabilities to support both government and commercial sectors, including work with the U.S. Department of Defense and a specialty in eDiscovery legal software customization.

Rachel is a graduate of James Madison University and is passionate about providing exceptional support, mentoring future leaders, and contributing to business success.

MICHAEL HORBATAK | VP OF TECHNOLOGY

MICHAEL HORBATAK 

Mike Horbatak joined Makesail Solutions in 2016 as a software engineer and now serves as Chief Technology Officer, leading technical strategy, platform evaluation, and software architecture. With deep expertise in software engineering, Mike has designed and developed scalable applications, complex web systems, and data-driven platforms supporting mission-critical initiatives for federal agencies including the Department of Defense (Army and OSD) and numerous private-sector clients.

Mike’s strengths lie in his ability to identify optimal technical solutions, drive full-stack development efforts, and integrate modern frameworks and methodologies to deliver secure, efficient, and user-centric software systems. His work spans application architecture, automation, UI/UX design, and DevSecOps integration, resulting in innovative and maintainable products tailored to unique client environments.

Beyond his federal contributions, Mike has also customized and extended commercial platforms such as Agility Blue eDiscovery software, enhancing functionality and aligning features to evolving user needs. His technical toolkit includes advanced proficiency in numerous programming languages and secure coding practices, making him a valuable resource across software engineering and development domains.

Mike holds a Master's degree in Software Engineering and maintains certifications in CompTIA Security+ and Microsoft Office Specialist, underscoring his commitment to technical excellence and continuous learning.

CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER

WOMAN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS