How did you become a Web designer?
I bought a nice suit, built a strong portfolio including printed examples, URLs and a DVD-ROM, and interviewed.
Are you self-taught or did you get a degree?
I'm a self taught designer and illustrator.
I found online tutorials and taught myself HTML and eventually CSS and other Web technologies. I built a portfolio of work and had some work published in magazines. I built a portfolio and got a job as a technical support person, then moved to QA, always with a site on design. Eventually a job opened up and I took it. I've been designing sites professionally since 1996.
Tips and Tricks
- Keep track of every job you do, build a portfolio
- Stay current with the latest technologies
- Ask for a link back to your portfolio on any sites you design, even if you have to provide a discount (if you're freelancing)
- Be better than your competition, work harder, study more, create prettier designs. Your portfolio will speak for itself
What University or School did you attend?
High School
What degree or certification did you receive?
N/A BS Equiv
How long ago did you become a Web designer?
1996 with Planet Direct, we pioneered Web Portal design.
Tell us a little about your Web design business (+URL)
I've been employed full time for over 15 years as a Web Designer. I freelance part time doing site design and illustration. My work can be seen at http://www.pixelrage.com/
