Web Designer / Developer

Dan Czyzyk, Web Designer / Developer
Dan Czyzyk
Web Designer / Developer
Dan Czyzyk, Web Designer / Developer

Tell me more about your profession?

In this day and age, the internet is becoming increasing popular and necessary for communication and for professionals showcasing who they are and what products or services they offer. I build websites for people and businesses who are looking to create an attractive and effective website.

Do you find your profession exciting? Why?

In this day and age, the internet is becoming increasing popular and necessary for communication and for professionals showcasing who they are and what products or services they offer. I build websites for people and businesses who are looking to create an attractive and effective website.

Why does this type of work interest you, and how did you get started?

Since I was a little kid,  I loved computers. I love science and art. So, here I can use a mixture of creativity and technical tools. I also have a marketing degree, which helps me to figure out how a website will be most effective for my customers.

About four years ago, I started taking Digital Media classes at Cabrillo College. I became very interested in this course of study. I took on an internship at Cabrillo, my last year semester before getting an Associate's Degree in Digital Media. It ended up turning into actually re-designing and developing the main Cabrillo College website.

Can you suggest some ways a student could obtain necessary experience for this profession?

Currently, there are so many free services that let you build websites and blogs. I would go to blogger.com, wordpress.com, or drupalgardens.com. You can start a blog and a website for free. These website companies give you lots of guidance on how to do it.   If you love art, drawing, learn how to do it on the computer. With such great programs like Photoshop and Illustrator the possibilities are really endless. If you're interested in Animation, Flash is the key program for that now.

Most Colleges have Web Design programs. In these programs, you will learn from successful professionals in the field and this will really help prepare you for the career.

The more time you spend exploring the technology, practicing new skills, and reading up on new trends, the more prepared you will be for the career.

What are the most important parts of running your own business?

My business is relatively small at this point. I do not have any employees, just people that I hire for certain projects, as subcontractors. For me, the most important of keeping my business successful is being very punctual, hard-working, and friendly with my clients. If you build a positive relationship with your clients, they will like doing business with you.  Equally as important is becoming very knowledgeable about building effective websites, and the technical knowledge is quite important as well.

How is the economy affecting your career pathway?

The answer is clearly “very nicely”.  People and businesses everywhere are realizing they need an attractive website that can help show what they do in an appealing light.  More and more businesses sell their products or services through their website. This is definitely a good industry to be in now.