I’ve always had an interest in computers, websites, and design. It started a young age of about 10 when I started attending local computer user groups in my birthplace of Canton, Ohio. From there, I quickly picked up the programming markup language of BASIC (beginners all-purpose symbolic instruction code) and started making homegrown computer applications on my own.
From there it was a natural progression of interest from stand-alone computers to programming, and designing, for the Internet. I can remember becoming excited back in the early to mid 90s when I signed up for my first GeoCities account. I was allowed to actually publish my first webpage. From this first GeoCities account launched my “official interest” in designing building and scripting websites.
At this time I also became interested in music, broadcasting, and being a DJ. I worked through several of night clubs and also on the local radio station in my hometown of Lake Havasu City, Arizona. I never lost track of the Internet and Web programming.
In 1998 I moved to Phoenix, Arizona to attend the Art Institute of Phoenix. I was hoping to build upon the education that I obtained at Mojave Community College in the computer information systems program to help me learn how to build websites, design websites, and expand my graphic design experience.
After realizing the cost of the Art Institutes’ tuition and the speed of which the Internet was changing I decided it would be better for education to pursue educational opportunities on my own. This is when I attended Glendale Community College and took courses that I felt was more relevant for m personal and professional development.
After a few years of freelance design, I landed my first “official” graphic design job with Michael Baker Junior Engineering in Phoenix, Arizona. I designed a multitude of different marketing materials including posters, banners, web graphics, and proposals.
After Michael Baker Junior engineering, I relocated to Fort Dodge, Iowa. I work for a small to medium-sized publisher called Heartland Communications. It was my responsibility to publish between two and four two and full-color magazines a month. These magazines had to be designed, edited, and made press ready under my watch.
From Fort Dodge, Iowa my family and I moved back to Phoenix, Arizona where I worked with Kimley Horne Engineering as a graphic designer. This position was similar to the position I had a Michael Baker Junior Engineering so I was familiar with the territory.
During this time I was still a DJ in nightclubs and held mix shows on Phoenix radio.
After Kimley Horn I had the opportunity to work with Hurricane Bay Nightclub as their marketing director. This was especially intriguing to me because it allowed me to bring and my marketing and design experience under one roof. Plus it also allowed me to work in an environment in which I am most familiar — nightlife.
Now I am working as a freelance designer and Grand Rapids, Michigan. I have worked under contract basis with a couple of design companies locally and also have done some work with some clients over the Internet.
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