My Career Journey: From Kiosk to Classroom

The Short Version

​I'm a graphic designer and educator with a career that started in 1991 after discovering my passion for design while working at a mall kiosk. My journey took me from early web design ventures with my father to earning a Bachelor's in Graphic Design from The Art Institute of California - Orange County. I spent significant time at Experian, evolving from a Senior Graphic Designer to an Interactive Art Director, and co-created the Handable Phone Grip, a testament to my interest in functional design.

In 2015, I transitioned to education, teaching Digital Design and Visual Communications at North Orange County ROP, El Dorado High School. I founded the 'Design Rescue Studio,' a program that combines academic learning with real-world projects, and launched 'The Design Rescue Show' on YouTube to extend my educational reach. Currently, I balance teaching with running my freelance design business, continuously learning and adapting to the ever-changing design landscape.

The Slightly Longer Version

1991: Discovering Design

Working on a Laguna Hills Mall kiosk, I first used Adobe Photoshop 2.0, sparking my passion for graphic design with personalized mugs and t-shirts.

1996: Web Design Ventures with Family

Joined by my father, we embarked on the then-novel realm of web design. This venture was more than a business endeavor; it was a pivotal step in my digital design evolution.

2001: Academic Foundations in Graphic Design

I attended The Art Institute of Ca in OC, where I achieved a Bachelor's in Graphic Design. This period was instrumental in refining my skills and shaping my artistic perspective.

2005: Professional Advancement at Experian

Joined Experian's FreeCreditReport department as a Sr. Graphic Designer, later becoming Interactive Art Director in the Marketing Services department.

2010: "The Family That Invents Together..."

The Handable Phone Grip, another collaboration with my father, this time on an invention of his creation, from 2010-2020, highlights our shared passion for design that solves everyday problems. This project allowed me to apply my design skills in a new domain, creating a product that enhances user experience and comfort.
🔗 Have a look at the Handable YouTube channel

2015: Embracing the Role of Educator​

I began teaching at North Orange County ROP, El Dorado High School, covering subjects like Digital Design and Visual Communications. Here, I found my calling in fostering the creativity of young designers.

2018: Design Rescue, Education and Experience

I established the 'Design Rescue Studio' at our academy, a unique Work-Based Learning program blending classroom learning with practical design projects, highlighting the importance of real-world experience in education.
​🔗 ​Visit the Design Rescue portfolio

2023: Launched 'The Design Rescue Show' on YouTube

I created 'The Design Rescue Show,' a platform for sharing insights and experiences from the design industry, aimed at inspiring and guiding aspiring designers.
​🔗 ​Subscribe to The Design Rescue Show

Present: Freelance Design and Lifelong Growth

I currently operate a freelance design business, consistently honing my skills and expertise to keep pace with the dynamic landscape of design.

Links to find me on social and otherwise