Where are you now? Where is home?
I currently live in beautiful Savannah, Georgia, with my wife. We've been here for about 11 years after graduating from the Savannah College of Art and Design. We love the warm weather, the beach, and the delicious food.
I grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina, where my wife and I are considering moving later this year!
Why/how did you become a designer?
I got into design after taking a Photoshop class in high school. Growing up, I was into computers, making things like LEGO kits, model kits, etc, and drawing. So when I found a career that would let me combine all of those things, I jumped at the opportunity. After waffling between 3D animation and photography, I decided to study graphic design. After being in the industry for a few years, I further specialized in UX/UI after realizing I enjoy making interactive things. I think design is a bit like a superpower that gives me a remarkable ability to see problems, break down ideas, and create solutions. It’s a bit like being a modern-day inventor.
What are you listening to now? What do you like to listen to while you work?
As cliche as it is, I listen to a little bit of everything. I enjoy things with high tempos, big drums, and big synth sounds, so I listen to a lot of pop, rock, and k-pop. I have a special playlist I use exclusively for creative flow work, creatively called Hype. My favorites include Fighter by Royal Deluxe, Remember This by Jonas Brothers, Grand by Kane Brown, and The Greatest Show from The Greatest Showman movie.
However, I also love some excellent classical music. Bach and Vivaldi are my favorite composers, alongside more modern performers like Yo-Yo Ma.
Why you joined Census?
The people are fantastic. It's rare to be surrounded by this level of exceptionally talented people who are also extremely kind and helpful. I was interested in a challenge that would stretch me as a designer and a professional. And I have found that! Matt contacted me while job hunting (I ignored him the first time!) and met to explain the company and product. I had no experience with the data space before, but I have fallen in love with the challenge and Census.
Upcoming trends that are exciting to you?
I’m pretty excited about the recent interest in OOUX. Object Oriented UX is something I discovered formally last year but have practiced for several years without realizing what it was. I am also excited about different people doing exciting things in different disciplines. This includes graphic designers, filmmakers, photographers, architects, and industrial designers. Two many amazing people are doing extraordinary things to only name a few, but I'll give the highlights:
- Peter McKinnon
- Alex Gilev
- Jake Knapp
- Chris Do
- David Hoang
- Joe Natoli
- Dan Mall
- Debbie Levitt
