About Me

About Me

About Me

Hi, Mike here.

Every product carries a hidden question: How can this be better? A finished interface is never truly final; it is a snapshot of a system in motion. Curiosity drives the search for what is possible, turning technology into a medium for discovery. This process is about pushing past current boundaries to find more elegant, meaningful solutions that actually improve a user's day.

Each project begins as a blank canvas. Endless possibilities are approached with an open mind. Whether the day involves balancing three internal applications as a product manager, designing a fresh ad campaign, or translating complex engineering logic into clear human stories, the approach remains the same. Metrics provide the insight, and team collaboration provides the depth to uncover what is truly possible. Georges Seurat once noted that science frees one from all uncertainties and allows one to move freely in an extensive domain. He believed it was an insult to both art and science to think one necessarily excludes the other. This philosophy defines the approach to the work, using data, science, and art to shift a perspective or refine a line to create a more impactful result.

The toolkit is a living thing, always expanding with new skills and experimental mediums. Broad strokes of interactive wireframing in Figma give way to the fine-point detail of executing JSON queries or building a product roadmap. Tools like CSS, HTML5, Adobe Premiere, and Excel macros serve as the brushes used to push the limits of a digital canvas.

There is a deep joy found in the camaraderie of the work. Real magic happens when seven different departments converge to ensure a launch is more than just a deadline. It becomes the achievement of a shared, human-centered vision. The goal is always the next experiment, the next problem to solve, and the next way to push the boundaries of the canvas and discover what can be achieved together.

Hi, Mike here.

Every product carries a hidden question: How can this be better? A finished interface is never truly final; it is a snapshot of a system in motion. Curiosity drives the search for what is possible, turning technology into a medium for discovery. This process is about pushing past current boundaries to find more elegant, meaningful solutions that actually improve a user's day.

Each project begins as a blank canvas. Endless possibilities are approached with an open mind. Whether the day involves balancing three internal applications as a product manager, designing a fresh ad campaign, or translating complex engineering logic into clear human stories, the approach remains the same. Metrics provide the insight, and team collaboration provides the depth to uncover what is truly possible. Georges Seurat once noted that science frees one from all uncertainties and allows one to move freely in an extensive domain. He believed it was an insult to both art and science to think one necessarily excludes the other. This philosophy defines the approach to the work, using data, science, and art to shift a perspective or refine a line to create a more impactful result.

The toolkit is a living thing, always expanding with new skills and experimental mediums. Broad strokes of interactive wireframing in Figma give way to the fine-point detail of executing JSON queries or building a product roadmap. Tools like CSS, HTML5, Adobe Premiere, and Excel macros serve as the brushes used to push the limits of a digital canvas.

There is a deep joy found in the camaraderie of the work. Real magic happens when seven different departments converge to ensure a launch is more than just a deadline. It becomes the achievement of a shared, human-centered vision. The goal is always the next experiment, the next problem to solve, and the next way to push the boundaries of the canvas and discover what can be achieved together.

A Tour of My Site Locations

My site is built around four places that I've called home. I invite you to enjoy a tour through these locations while you visit!

The first stop is Tucson, Arizona, where I’ve included cacti and other elements from the gorgeous Tucson desert. Next is Denver, which features iconic scenery like the infamous Bluecifer statue and the Cash Register/Wells Fargo building. Then we have The University of Oklahoma, the place where I earned my undergraduate degree, showcasing the Sooners mascot and the racing Sooner Schooner. Finally, we land in Pittsburgh, featuring the historic Duquesne Incline, an iceberg playing some hockey, and, of course, one of the city's iconic bridges.

A Tour of My Site Locations

My site is built around four places that I've called home. I invite you to enjoy a tour through these locations while you visit!

The first stop is Tucson, Arizona, where I’ve included cacti and other elements from the gorgeous Tucson desert. Next is Denver, which features iconic scenery like the infamous Bluecifer statue and the Cash Register/Wells Fargo building. Then we have The University of Oklahoma, the place where I earned my undergraduate degree, showcasing the Sooners mascot and the racing Sooner Schooner. Finally, we land in Pittsburgh, featuring the historic Duquesne Incline, an iceberg playing some hockey, and, of course, one of the city's iconic bridges.

Experience

Experience

Experience

Mortgage365

Technical Communication Specialist

Highlands Ranch, Colorado

Date: 05/2024 - 10/2025

Tap for Details

At Mortgage365, I served as the central translation layer between technical development and user enablement. My role went far beyond traditional technical writing; I acted as a bridge connecting Engineering, DevOps, Product, Client Success, and Marketing. I was responsible for synthesizing complex technical updates into clear, digestible content, authoring over 500 pages of documentation and managing the release note cycle. Central to this effort, I managed the SharePoint educational tree, rigorously tracking version history across dozens of updates to ensure our knowledge base evolved in lockstep with the software and remained the single source of truth for clients.

My involvement was deeply technical; I utilized Postman, Chrome DevTools, and Azure Product Boards to investigate features and validate data alongside the Front-End Engineering teams. This hands-on approach allowed me to assist with bug reporting and ensure that documentation accurately reflected the product’s architecture, which I often mapped out using diagramming tools like Visio and IcePanel.

I also expanded my scope to support Marketing and Enablement efforts, volunteering to produce a wide variety of training demos and "hype videos" using Premiere Pro, Photoshop, and Illustrator. To ensure these assets were delivered efficiently and with strict brand consistency, I built custom macros for Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, automating routine formatting tasks and speeding up the production pipeline for the entire team.





Mortgage365

Technical Communication Specialist

Mortgage365

Technical Communication Specialist

Highlands Ranch, Colorado

Date: 05/2024 - 10/2025

Flip for Details

At Mortgage365, I served as the central translation layer between technical development and user enablement. My role went far beyond traditional technical writing; I acted as a bridge connecting Engineering, DevOps, Product, Client Success, and Marketing. I was responsible for synthesizing complex technical updates into clear, digestible content, authoring over 500 pages of documentation and managing the release note cycle. Central to this effort, I managed the SharePoint educational tree, rigorously tracking version history across dozens of updates to ensure our knowledge base evolved in lockstep with the software and remained the single source of truth for clients.

My involvement was deeply technical; I utilized Postman, Chrome DevTools, and Azure Product Boards to investigate features and validate data alongside the Front-End Engineering teams. This hands-on approach allowed me to assist with bug reporting and ensure that documentation accurately reflected the product’s architecture, which I often mapped out using diagramming tools like Visio and IcePanel.

I also expanded my scope to support Marketing and Enablement efforts, volunteering to produce a wide variety of training demos and "hype videos" using Premiere Pro, Photoshop, and Illustrator. To ensure these assets were delivered efficiently and with strict brand consistency, I built custom macros for Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, automating routine formatting tasks and speeding up the production pipeline for the entire team.


Mortgage365

Technical Communication Specialist

Mortgage365

Technical Communication Specialist

Highlands Ranch, Colorado

Date: 05/2024 - 10/2025

Flip for Details

At Mortgage365, I served as the central translation layer between technical development and user enablement. My role went far beyond traditional technical writing; I acted as a bridge connecting Engineering, DevOps, Product, Client Success, and Marketing. I was responsible for synthesizing complex technical updates into clear, digestible content, authoring over 500 pages of documentation and managing the release note cycle. Central to this effort, I managed the SharePoint educational tree, rigorously tracking version history across dozens of updates to ensure our knowledge base evolved in lockstep with the software and remained the single source of truth for clients.

My involvement was deeply technical; I utilized Postman, Chrome DevTools, and Azure Product Boards to investigate features and validate data alongside the Front-End Engineering teams. This hands-on approach allowed me to assist with bug reporting and ensure that documentation accurately reflected the product’s architecture, which I often mapped out using diagramming tools like Visio and IcePanel.

I also expanded my scope to support Marketing and Enablement efforts, volunteering to produce a wide variety of training demos and "hype videos" using Premiere Pro, Photoshop, and Illustrator. To ensure these assets were delivered efficiently and with strict brand consistency, I built custom macros for Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, automating routine formatting tasks and speeding up the production pipeline for the entire team.


Mortgage365

Technical Communication Specialist

Suited Connector

Product Manager

Englewood, Colorado

Date: 02/2022 - 10/2022

Flip for Details

At Suited Connector, I operated as the strategic anchor for the company’s internal toolset, driving the product vision for three major enterprise applications and several auxiliary projects. My primary objective was to eliminate friction between complex business requirements and engineering execution. By overhauling our requirement gathering process and curating highly detailed user stories in Jira, I was able to shorten the engineering feedback-to-release loop by 30%, creating a faster and more predictable shipping cadence.

I approached Product Management with a "hands-on" technical mindset. Beyond defining the roadmap, I actively participated in the development lifecycle using Agile methodologies. I applied critical thinking to bug triage, providing Engineering and QA teams with insightful, pre-analyzed summaries that allowed them to solve problems faster. I also led the development of a fraud filtering system, conducting API acceptance testing and data analysis to ensure lead quality met our strict standards.

Leveraging my background in front-end design, I often bypassed traditional documentation to build high-fidelity Figma mockups and interactive prototypes. This visual approach clarified requirements for the engineering team and reduced misinterpretation. My design contributions also extended to external performance; I collaborated with external partners to A/B test new landing pages, utilizing data-driven insights to refine layouts and improve click-through rates on advertisements.

Recognizing that a tool is only as good as its user, I also spearheaded the enablement side of product launches. I streamlined user training by creating a blend of hands-on sessions and written documentation, ensuring that internal teams could navigate complex features with confidence. This role required balancing rapid innovation with strict governance; I managed high-stakes relationships with stakeholders to ensure every release not only improved usability but also adhered to rigid regulatory and legal compliance standards.


Suited Connector

Product Manager

Suited Connector

Product Manager

Englewood, Colorado

Date: 02/2022 - 10/2022

Flip for Details

At Suited Connector, I operated as the strategic anchor for the company’s internal toolset, driving the product vision for three major enterprise applications and several auxiliary projects. My primary objective was to eliminate friction between complex business requirements and engineering execution. By overhauling our requirement gathering process and curating highly detailed user stories in Jira, I was able to shorten the engineering feedback-to-release loop by 30%, creating a faster and more predictable shipping cadence.

I approached Product Management with a "hands-on" technical mindset. Beyond defining the roadmap, I actively participated in the development lifecycle using Agile methodologies. I applied critical thinking to bug triage, providing Engineering and QA teams with insightful, pre-analyzed summaries that allowed them to solve problems faster. I also led the development of a fraud filtering system, conducting API acceptance testing and data analysis to ensure lead quality met our strict standards.

Leveraging my background in front-end design, I often bypassed traditional documentation to build high-fidelity Figma mockups and interactive prototypes. This visual approach clarified requirements for the engineering team and reduced misinterpretation. My design contributions also extended to external performance; I collaborated with external partners to A/B test new landing pages, utilizing data-driven insights to refine layouts and improve click-through rates on advertisements.

Recognizing that a tool is only as good as its user, I also spearheaded the enablement side of product launches. I streamlined user training by creating a blend of hands-on sessions and written documentation, ensuring that internal teams could navigate complex features with confidence. This role required balancing rapid innovation with strict governance; I managed high-stakes relationships with stakeholders to ensure every release not only improved usability but also adhered to rigid regulatory and legal compliance standards.


Suited Connector

Product Manager

Suited Connector

Product Manager

Englewood, Colorado

Date: 02/2022 - 10/2022

Tap for Details

At Suited Connector, I operated as the strategic anchor for the company’s internal toolset, driving the product vision for three major enterprise applications and several auxiliary projects. My primary objective was to eliminate friction between complex business requirements and engineering execution. By overhauling our requirement gathering process and curating highly detailed user stories in Jira, I was able to shorten the engineering feedback-to-release loop by 30%, creating a faster and more predictable shipping cadence.

I approached Product Management with a "hands-on" technical mindset. Beyond defining the roadmap, I actively participated in the development lifecycle using Agile methodologies. I applied critical thinking to bug triage, providing Engineering and QA teams with insightful, pre-analyzed summaries that allowed them to solve problems faster. I also led the development of a fraud filtering system, conducting API acceptance testing and data analysis to ensure lead quality met our strict standards.

Leveraging my background in front-end design, I often bypassed traditional documentation to build high-fidelity Figma mockups and interactive prototypes. This visual approach clarified requirements for the engineering team and reduced misinterpretation. My design contributions also extended to external performance; I collaborated with external partners to A/B test new landing pages, utilizing data-driven insights to refine layouts and improve click-through rates on advertisements.

Recognizing that a tool is only as good as its user, I also spearheaded the enablement side of product launches. I streamlined user training by creating a blend of hands-on sessions and written documentation, ensuring that internal teams could navigate complex features with confidence. This role required balancing rapid innovation with strict governance; I managed high-stakes relationships with stakeholders to ensure every release not only improved usability but also adhered to rigid regulatory and legal compliance standards.





Suited Connector

Product Manager

TroutHouseTech

Mobile Front-End Engineer

Denver, Colorado

Date: 10/2021 - 02/2022

Flip for Details

Operating within a high-velocity development agency, I engineered Go-To-Market mobile experiences for a diverse portfolio of clients. My role required a hybrid mindset, blending the technical execution of React Native and Firebase with the strategic foresight needed to define Minimum Viable Products (MVPs). I collaborated closely with external stakeholders to facilitate critical engineering trade-offs, ensuring that we delivered robust applications that met immediate business goals without sacrificing future scalability.

I focused heavily on user engagement and product quality, most notably developing a non-profit platform that secured 8,000 new users and elevated customer satisfaction ratings from 3.0 to 4.5 stars. By utilizing Figma and mobile simulators, I was able to rapidly prototype and iterate on designs, streamlining the profile management systems and significantly improving the end-user experience.

Beyond the front-end interface, I took ownership of critical security and compliance architectures. I implemented Single Sign-On (SSO) across multiple applications to balance user convenience with security, and successfully navigated the complexities of HIPAA and PIPEDA compliance for a medical application, ensuring the protection of sensitive PII data. This role demanded adaptability; whether I was conducting user research or managing agile sprints, my focus remained on solving complex problems through clean, efficient code.


TroutHouseTech

Mobile Front-End Engineer

TroutHouseTech

Mobile Front-End Engineer

Denver, Colorado

Date: 10/2021 - 02/2022

Flip for Details

Operating within a high-velocity development agency, I engineered Go-To-Market mobile experiences for a diverse portfolio of clients. My role required a hybrid mindset, blending the technical execution of React Native and Firebase with the strategic foresight needed to define Minimum Viable Products (MVPs). I collaborated closely with external stakeholders to facilitate critical engineering trade-offs, ensuring that we delivered robust applications that met immediate business goals without sacrificing future scalability.

I focused heavily on user engagement and product quality, most notably developing a non-profit platform that secured 8,000 new users and elevated customer satisfaction ratings from 3.0 to 4.5 stars. By utilizing Figma and mobile simulators, I was able to rapidly prototype and iterate on designs, streamlining the profile management systems and significantly improving the end-user experience.

Beyond the front-end interface, I took ownership of critical security and compliance architectures. I implemented Single Sign-On (SSO) across multiple applications to balance user convenience with security, and successfully navigated the complexities of HIPAA and PIPEDA compliance for a medical application, ensuring the protection of sensitive PII data. This role demanded adaptability; whether I was conducting user research or managing agile sprints, my focus remained on solving complex problems through clean, efficient code.


TroutHouseTech

Mobile Front-End Engineer

TroutHouseTech

Mobile Front-End Engineer

Denver, Colorado

Date: 10/2021 - 02/2022

Tap for Details

Operating within a high-velocity development agency, I engineered Go-To-Market mobile experiences for a diverse portfolio of clients. My role required a hybrid mindset, blending the technical execution of React Native and Firebase with the strategic foresight needed to define Minimum Viable Products (MVPs). I collaborated closely with external stakeholders to facilitate critical engineering trade-offs, ensuring that we delivered robust applications that met immediate business goals without sacrificing future scalability.

I focused heavily on user engagement and product quality, most notably developing a non-profit platform that secured 8,000 new users and elevated customer satisfaction ratings from 3.0 to 4.5 stars. By utilizing Figma and mobile simulators, I was able to rapidly prototype and iterate on designs, streamlining the profile management systems and significantly improving the end-user experience.

Beyond the front-end interface, I took ownership of critical security and compliance architectures. I implemented Single Sign-On (SSO) across multiple applications to balance user convenience with security, and successfully navigated the complexities of HIPAA and PIPEDA compliance for a medical application, ensuring the protection of sensitive PII data. This role demanded adaptability; whether I was conducting user research or managing agile sprints, my focus remained on solving complex problems through clean, efficient code.





TroutHouseTech

Mobile Front-End Engineer

Istonish

Information Technology Specialist

Englewood, Colorado

Date: 11/2019 - 06/2020

Tap for Details

Operating under the company ethos of "Service Beyond Reason," I served as a Tier 2 Specialist dedicated to high-stakes clients, including public safety organizations and government agencies. My role was critical to maintaining infrastructure stability; I collaborated directly with local and federal officials to co-develop IT solutions that slashed downtime by 20%, ensuring that essential community services remained operational.

I approached technical support with an analytical mindset rather than just a transactional one. Managing a volume of over 100 issues per week, I maintained a 90% non-escalation rate by diagnosing root causes and translating client needs into actionable technical outcomes. This feedback loop didn't just solve immediate problems; it provided data that helped improve future iterations of client applications.

Recognizing that many technical issues stemmed from knowledge gaps, I took the initiative to build systemic solutions. I constructed visual training guides and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that empowered users to solve problems themselves, reducing repeat support requests by 40%. I also led the onboarding of three major clients, fostering a culture of growth by training users and ensuring they had operational functionality within their first month.






Istonish

Information Technology Specialist

T-Mobile

Product Launch Specialist

Denver, Colorado

Date: 07/2018 - 06/2019

Flip for Details

As part of the founding team for T-Mobile's TV Entertainment Department, I operated in a high-velocity "startup within a corporation" environment. My primary mandate was to execute the Go-To-Market strategy for a disruptive new service, successfully leading the launch of 10 new sales markets and directly contributing to a 50% growth in departmental footprint. This role required bridging the gap between field sales and corporate strategy, ensuring that market expansion was supported by data-driven decision-making.

My approach was deeply rooted in user research. I conducted over 1,000 customer interviews, translating raw qualitative feedback into actionable insights regarding pricing, feature sets, and competitive positioning. I executed ongoing competitor analysis to ensure our offering stayed ahead of industry trends, acting as the voice of the customer to inform product development and refine our value proposition.

I applied these insights to solve critical business challenges, specifically customer retention. Internally, I drove culture and product awareness by producing internal promotional campaigns, event messaging, and product highlights that kept the team aligned and high-morale during rapid scaling. Simultaneously, I partnered with the social media team to refine our external voice. By sharing granular data on user sentiment—ranging from specific pain points to regional trends that resonated with local customers—I helped tailor our public messaging, directly boosting the effectiveness of our broader marketing efforts.


T-Mobile

Product Launch Specialist

T-Mobile

Product Launch Specialist

Denver, Colorado

Date: 07/2018 - 06/2019

Flip for Details

As part of the founding team for T-Mobile's TV Entertainment Department, I operated in a high-velocity "startup within a corporation" environment. My primary mandate was to execute the Go-To-Market strategy for a disruptive new service, successfully leading the launch of 10 new sales markets and directly contributing to a 50% growth in departmental footprint. This role required bridging the gap between field sales and corporate strategy, ensuring that market expansion was supported by data-driven decision-making.

My approach was deeply rooted in user research. I conducted over 1,000 customer interviews, translating raw qualitative feedback into actionable insights regarding pricing, feature sets, and competitive positioning. I executed ongoing competitor analysis to ensure our offering stayed ahead of industry trends, acting as the voice of the customer to inform product development and refine our value proposition.

I applied these insights to solve critical business challenges, specifically customer retention. Internally, I drove culture and product awareness by producing internal promotional campaigns, event messaging, and product highlights that kept the team aligned and high-morale during rapid scaling. Simultaneously, I partnered with the social media team to refine our external voice. By sharing granular data on user sentiment—ranging from specific pain points to regional trends that resonated with local customers—I helped tailor our public messaging, directly boosting the effectiveness of our broader marketing efforts.


T-Mobile

Product Launch Specialist

T-Mobile

Product Launch Specialist

Denver, Colorado

Date: 07/2018 - 06/2019

Tap for Details

As part of the founding team for T-Mobile's TV Entertainment Department, I operated in a high-velocity "startup within a corporation" environment. My primary mandate was to execute the Go-To-Market strategy for a disruptive new service, successfully leading the launch of 10 new sales markets and directly contributing to a 50% growth in departmental footprint. This role required bridging the gap between field sales and corporate strategy, ensuring that market expansion was supported by data-driven decision-making.

My approach was deeply rooted in user research. I conducted over 1,000 customer interviews, translating raw qualitative feedback into actionable insights regarding pricing, feature sets, and competitive positioning. I executed ongoing competitor analysis to ensure our offering stayed ahead of industry trends, acting as the voice of the customer to inform product development and refine our value proposition.

I applied these insights to solve critical business challenges, specifically customer retention. Internally, I drove culture and product awareness by producing internal promotional campaigns, event messaging, and product highlights that kept the team aligned and high-morale during rapid scaling. Simultaneously, I partnered with the social media team to refine our external voice. By sharing granular data on user sentiment—ranging from specific pain points to regional trends that resonated with local customers—I helped tailor our public messaging, directly boosting the effectiveness of our broader marketing efforts.







T-Mobile

Product Launch Specialist

Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities

Production Craftsman

Arvada, Colorado

Date: 05/2015 - 07/2018

Flip for Details

At the Arvada Center, I functioned as a technical anchor for a high-volume production house, staging seven major productions annually with an $8.3 million operating budget. My role was to translate abstract artistic visions into tangible, safe, and functional realities. I collaborated directly with renowned designers and directors from around the globe, conducting in-depth design meetings to ensure that creative ambition never compromised structural integrity or project timelines.

My workflow was deeply rooted in engineering and precision. I utilized AutoCAD to generate precise 3D drafts and construction blueprints, meticulously outlining every step of the build process. This technical foresight allowed me to manage massive material inventories and execute orders exceeding $500,000, utilizing Excel programming to balance budgetary constraints with build quality. Beyond standard fabrication, I performed critical load calculations and mechanical analysis for rigging systems, ensuring the seamless and safe operation of complex theatrical elements.

Project management was central to my success in this role. I implemented rigorous production schedules and safety protocols that proactively identified hazards, resulting in a 20% reduction in safety incidents. By optimizing the planning phase and refining material management strategies, I increased overall set construction efficiency by 15%, fostering a collaborative environment that delivered 100% of productions on time without sacrificing artistic quality.



Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities

Production Craftsman

Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities

Production Craftsman

Arvada, Colorado

Date: 05/2015 - 07/2018

Flip for Details

At the Arvada Center, I functioned as a technical anchor for a high-volume production house, staging seven major productions annually with an $8.3 million operating budget. My role was to translate abstract artistic visions into tangible, safe, and functional realities. I collaborated directly with renowned designers and directors from around the globe, conducting in-depth design meetings to ensure that creative ambition never compromised structural integrity or project timelines.

My workflow was deeply rooted in engineering and precision. I utilized AutoCAD to generate precise 3D drafts and construction blueprints, meticulously outlining every step of the build process. This technical foresight allowed me to manage massive material inventories and execute orders exceeding $500,000, utilizing Excel programming to balance budgetary constraints with build quality. Beyond standard fabrication, I performed critical load calculations and mechanical analysis for rigging systems, ensuring the seamless and safe operation of complex theatrical elements.

Project management was central to my success in this role. I implemented rigorous production schedules and safety protocols that proactively identified hazards, resulting in a 20% reduction in safety incidents. By optimizing the planning phase and refining material management strategies, I increased overall set construction efficiency by 15%, fostering a collaborative environment that delivered 100% of productions on time without sacrificing artistic quality.



Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities

Production Craftsman

Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities

Production Craftsman

Arvada, Colorado

Date: 05/2015 - 07/2018

Tap for Details

At the Arvada Center, I functioned as a technical anchor for a high-volume production house, staging seven major productions annually with an $8.3 million operating budget. My role was to translate abstract artistic visions into tangible, safe, and functional realities. I collaborated directly with renowned designers and directors from around the globe, conducting in-depth design meetings to ensure that creative ambition never compromised structural integrity or project timelines.

My workflow was deeply rooted in engineering and precision. I utilized AutoCAD to generate precise 3D drafts and construction blueprints, meticulously outlining every step of the build process. This technical foresight allowed me to manage massive material inventories and execute orders exceeding $500,000, utilizing Excel programming to balance budgetary constraints with build quality. Beyond standard fabrication, I performed critical load calculations and mechanical analysis for rigging systems, ensuring the seamless and safe operation of complex theatrical elements.

Project management was central to my success in this role. I implemented rigorous production schedules and safety protocols that proactively identified hazards, resulting in a 20% reduction in safety incidents. By optimizing the planning phase and refining material management strategies, I increased overall set construction efficiency by 15%, fostering a collaborative environment that delivered 100% of productions on time without sacrificing artistic quality.






Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities

Production Craftsman

Curious Theatre Company

Assistant Technical Director

Denver, Colorado

Date: 05/2015 - 07/2018

Flip for Details

As Assistant Technical Director, I managed the technical execution for a season of provocative, award-winning contemporary works. Working in an environment that prioritized a "No guts, no story" philosophy, I took ownership of large-scale builds from initial CAD drafting through final installation. My role was to partner with the Technical Director to engineer the physical environments for multiple world premieres, ensuring that our technical delivery matched the artistic boldness of the production.

I focused heavily on operational efficiency to support the season's demanding schedule. I implemented new workflow systems that streamlined the build process, successfully reducing installation time for complex sets by a full day. My involvement in budget management went beyond tracking expenses; by utilizing strategic sourcing and resource allocation for seven productions, I helped reduce cost overruns by 10%, ensuring resources went toward high-quality production values rather than waste.

Beyond the physical build, I championed the human element of production. I managed crews with varying levels of experience, developing and delivering comprehensive training programs that increased crew productivity by 30% and minimized on-site errors. This focus on training and protocol also ensured a flawless safety record for the entire season, creating a culture where artistic risk-taking was supported by rigorous technical safety standards.



Curious Theatre Company

Assistant Technical Director

Curious Theatre Company

Assistant Technical Director

Denver, Colorado

Date: 05/2015 - 07/2018

Flip for Details

As Assistant Technical Director, I managed the technical execution for a season of provocative, award-winning contemporary works. Working in an environment that prioritized a "No guts, no story" philosophy, I took ownership of large-scale builds from initial CAD drafting through final installation. My role was to partner with the Technical Director to engineer the physical environments for multiple world premieres, ensuring that our technical delivery matched the artistic boldness of the production.

I focused heavily on operational efficiency to support the season's demanding schedule. I implemented new workflow systems that streamlined the build process, successfully reducing installation time for complex sets by a full day. My involvement in budget management went beyond tracking expenses; by utilizing strategic sourcing and resource allocation for seven productions, I helped reduce cost overruns by 10%, ensuring resources went toward high-quality production values rather than waste.

Beyond the physical build, I championed the human element of production. I managed crews with varying levels of experience, developing and delivering comprehensive training programs that increased crew productivity by 30% and minimized on-site errors. This focus on training and protocol also ensured a flawless safety record for the entire season, creating a culture where artistic risk-taking was supported by rigorous technical safety standards.



Curious Theatre Company

Assistant Technical Director

Curious Theatre Company

Assistant Technical Director

Denver, Colorado

Date: 05/2015 - 07/2018

Tap for Details

As Assistant Technical Director, I managed the technical execution for a season of provocative, award-winning contemporary works. Working in an environment that prioritized a "No guts, no story" philosophy, I took ownership of large-scale builds from initial CAD drafting through final installation. My role was to partner with the Technical Director to engineer the physical environments for multiple world premieres, ensuring that our technical delivery matched the artistic boldness of the production.

I focused heavily on operational efficiency to support the season's demanding schedule. I implemented new workflow systems that streamlined the build process, successfully reducing installation time for complex sets by a full day. My involvement in budget management went beyond tracking expenses; by utilizing strategic sourcing and resource allocation for seven productions, I helped reduce cost overruns by 10%, ensuring resources went toward high-quality production values rather than waste.

Beyond the physical build, I championed the human element of production. I managed crews with varying levels of experience, developing and delivering comprehensive training programs that increased crew productivity by 30% and minimized on-site errors. This focus on training and protocol also ensured a flawless safety record for the entire season, creating a culture where artistic risk-taking was supported by rigorous technical safety standards.




Curious Theatre Company

Assistant Technical Director

Utah Shakespeare Festival

Scenery Operations Supervisor

Cedar City, Utah

Date: 05/2014 - 10/2014

Flip for Details

Overseeing the complex logistics of a nine-show repertory season, I managed the daily scenic operations across four distinct venues, ranging from open-air Elizabethan stages to modern indoor theaters. My primary focus was operational fluidity; I coordinated large stage crews and managed the rigorous schedule of daily scenic changeovers required to rotate productions. By overhauling the crew scheduling and documentation systems, I successfully reduced scenic installation and strike times by 10%, allowing for more rehearsal time and smoother transitions between performances.

My role extended into strict asset management and financial stewardship. I oversaw the maintenance of all four theatrical spaces, implementing proactive safety protocols and repair tracking that reduced equipment downtime by 8%. I also took a strategic approach to purchasing and resource allocation, optimizing material sourcing to save the festival $5,000 in production costs.

Beyond the technical execution, I focused on team performance and public engagement. I developed comprehensive training programs that boosted crew productivity by 15% and minimized on-site errors. Additionally, I served as a bridge between the technical team and the public, leading audience "tech talks" that demystified the engineering behind the productions and enhanced the patron experience.

Utah Shakespeare Festival

Scenery Operations Supervisor

Utah Shakespeare Festival

Scenery Operations Supervisor

Cedar City, Utah

Date: 05/2014 - 10/2014

Flip for Details

Overseeing the complex logistics of a nine-show repertory season, I managed the daily scenic operations across four distinct venues, ranging from open-air Elizabethan stages to modern indoor theaters. My primary focus was operational fluidity; I coordinated large stage crews and managed the rigorous schedule of daily scenic changeovers required to rotate productions. By overhauling the crew scheduling and documentation systems, I successfully reduced scenic installation and strike times by 10%, allowing for more rehearsal time and smoother transitions between performances.

My role extended into strict asset management and financial stewardship. I oversaw the maintenance of all four theatrical spaces, implementing proactive safety protocols and repair tracking that reduced equipment downtime by 8%. I also took a strategic approach to purchasing and resource allocation, optimizing material sourcing to save the festival $5,000 in production costs.

Beyond the technical execution, I focused on team performance and public engagement. I developed comprehensive training programs that boosted crew productivity by 15% and minimized on-site errors. Additionally, I served as a bridge between the technical team and the public, leading audience "tech talks" that demystified the engineering behind the productions and enhanced the patron experience.

Utah Shakespeare Festival

Scenery Operations Supervisor

Utah Shakespeare Festival

Scenery Operations Supervisor

Cedar City, Utah

Date: 05/2014 - 10/2014

Tap for Details

Overseeing the complex logistics of a nine-show repertory season, I managed the daily scenic operations across four distinct venues, ranging from open-air Elizabethan stages to modern indoor theaters. My primary focus was operational fluidity; I coordinated large stage crews and managed the rigorous schedule of daily scenic changeovers required to rotate productions. By overhauling the crew scheduling and documentation systems, I successfully reduced scenic installation and strike times by 10%, allowing for more rehearsal time and smoother transitions between performances.

My role extended into strict asset management and financial stewardship. I oversaw the maintenance of all four theatrical spaces, implementing proactive safety protocols and repair tracking that reduced equipment downtime by 8%. I also took a strategic approach to purchasing and resource allocation, optimizing material sourcing to save the festival $5,000 in production costs.

Beyond the technical execution, I focused on team performance and public engagement. I developed comprehensive training programs that boosted crew productivity by 15% and minimized on-site errors. Additionally, I served as a bridge between the technical team and the public, leading audience "tech talks" that demystified the engineering behind the productions and enhanced the patron experience.





Utah Shakespeare Festival

Scenery Operations Supervisor

Additional Experience

The experience listed above is just a small part of my overall background. I have previously worked for OU Media Services as a Graphic Designer on ad campaigns, served in the United States Air Force in Visual Information and Graphics, and held sales leadership roles at Kohl's and Target. Additionally, I have over 10 years of various backstage and entertainment work, including Technical Direction, lighting design, drafting, rigging, and special events coordination. If you have questions about any of my experience, please feel free to contact me.

Additional Experience

The experience listed above is just a small part of my overall background. I have previously worked for OU Media Services as a Graphic Designer on ad campaigns, served in the United States Air Force in Visual Information and Graphics, and held sales leadership roles at Kohl's and Target. Additionally, I have over 10 years of various backstage and entertainment work, including Technical Direction, lighting design, drafting, rigging, and special events coordination. If you have questions about any of my experience, please feel free to contact me.

Educational Journey

Educational Journey

The Route at a Glance

  • United States Air Force
    Role: Graphic Designer & Information Specialist

  • Pima Community College
    Degree: Associate of Arts (Theatre Technology)

  • University of Oklahoma
    Degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts (Theatre Technology)

  • Regis University & Turing School of Software & Design
    Focus: M.S. Computer Science Coursework (4.0 GPA) & Frontend Engineering Certification

  • Professional Alignment
    Current Focus: Operating at the intersection of Product Strategy, Technical Enablement, & Creative Design.

The Route at a Glance

  • United States Air Force
    Role: Graphic Designer & Information Specialist

  • Pima Community College
    Degree: Associate of Arts (Theatre Technology)

  • University of Oklahoma
    Degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts (Theatre Technology)

  • Regis University & Turing School of Software & Design
    Focus: M.S. Computer Science Coursework (4.0 GPA) & Frontend Engineering Certification

  • Professional Alignment
    Current Focus: Operating at the intersection of Product Strategy, Technical Enablement, & Creative Design.

The Navigator’s Path: Strategy, Design, and Technical Enablement

Most professional paths are drawn as straight lines; a tidy list of dates and degrees. My map is topographical. It is a story of mastering the art of navigation: finding a craft, losing it to circumstance, and having the courage to rebuild it stronger. Whether I am framing a stage, a software function, or a product strategy, my focus remains the same. I focus on translating complex logic into human experiences.

The Foundation: Discipline and Design

United States Air Force | Graphic Designer and Information Specialist

My journey began with military discipline. As an Information Specialist, the mission was clear; I handled high-stakes communication where technical precision was the only standard. I learned that design is a functional tool for clarity. I stepped into leadership early by managing unit fitness and supporting the flight, finding a quiet satisfaction in being the person the team could lean on. When a massive downsizing led to an honorable separation, I took that discipline into the civilian world to find a new unit.

The Navigator’s Path: Strategy, Design, and Technical Enablement

Most professional paths are drawn as straight lines; a tidy list of dates and degrees. My map is topographical. It is a story of mastering the art of navigation: finding a craft, losing it to circumstance, and having the courage to rebuild it stronger. Whether I am framing a stage, a software function, or a product strategy, my focus remains the same. I focus on translating complex logic into human experiences.

The Foundation: Discipline and Design

United States Air Force | Graphic Designer and Information Specialist

My journey began with military discipline. As an Information Specialist, the mission was clear; I handled high-stakes communication where technical precision was the only standard. I learned that design is a functional tool for clarity. I stepped into leadership early by managing unit fitness and supporting the flight, finding a quiet satisfaction in being the person the team could lean on. When a massive downsizing led to an honorable separation, I took that discipline into the civilian world to find a new unit.

The Architecture of Experience: Technical Theatre and Event Management

The University of Oklahoma and Regional Leadership | BFA, Theatre Technology

I found my next mission in the collaborative world of technical theatre. I traded a uniform for a tool belt, moving from community college shops to the large-scale opera stages of the University of Oklahoma. This era was a crash course in logistical engineering and production management. I wasn't just building scenery; I was managing five-figure budgets, calculating fleet angle trigonometry, and navigating 3D AutoCAD. My capstone was a victory in Shreveport, where I led a team to shatter national records for load-in efficiency through obsessive pre-planning and contingency mapping.

I spent years honing this craft nationally. At the Utah Shakespeare Festival, I implemented scheduling and documentation systems that cut installation times by 10 percent. At the Arvada Center, I collaborated with international artists to bring seven major productions to life annually, managing material procurement for budgets exceeding $100,000. I was managing the physics, finance, and leadership of creation.

The Architecture of Experience: Technical Theatre and Event Management

The University of Oklahoma and Regional Leadership | BFA, Theatre Technology

I found my next mission in the collaborative world of technical theatre. I traded a uniform for a tool belt, moving from community college shops to the large-scale opera stages of the University of Oklahoma. This era was a crash course in logistical engineering and production management. I wasn't just building scenery; I was managing five-figure budgets, calculating fleet angle trigonometry, and navigating 3D AutoCAD. My capstone was a victory in Shreveport, where I led a team to shatter national records for load-in efficiency through obsessive pre-planning and contingency mapping.

I spent years honing this craft nationally. At the Utah Shakespeare Festival, I implemented scheduling and documentation systems that cut installation times by 10 percent. At the Arvada Center, I collaborated with international artists to bring seven major productions to life annually, managing material procurement for budgets exceeding $100,000. I was managing the physics, finance, and leadership of creation.

The Pivot: Engineering and Logic

Regis University and Turing School of Software and Design

In 2018, a physical injury brought my theatrical career to a halt. I discovered that drafting a complex plate in AutoCAD is fundamentally the same as writing software; both require logic, syntax, and structural integrity. I pursued Master’s-level coursework at Regis University, maintaining a 4.0 GPA while focusing on Software Architecture and Systems Design. As the landscape shifted in 2020, I recognized a need for a more economical, hands-on approach to the craft.

I transitioned to the Turing School for a 1,500-hour immersion in JavaScript, React, and Agile processes. I led teams in building scalable web applications and served as a mentor in organizations like Vets-Into-Turing, finding my stride in the intersection of code and user-centric architecture.

The Pivot: Engineering and Logic

Regis University and Turing School of Software and Design

In 2018, a physical injury brought my theatrical career to a halt. I discovered that drafting a complex plate in AutoCAD is fundamentally the same as writing software; both require logic, syntax, and structural integrity. I pursued Master’s-level coursework at Regis University, maintaining a 4.0 GPA while focusing on Software Architecture and Systems Design. As the landscape shifted in 2020, I recognized a need for a more economical, hands-on approach to the craft.

I transitioned to the Turing School for a 1,500-hour immersion in JavaScript, React, and Agile processes. I led teams in building scalable web applications and served as a mentor in organizations like Vets-Into-Turing, finding my stride in the intersection of code and user-centric architecture.

The Convergence: Product and Enablement

Suited Connector and Mortgage365

Today, my experience converges in Technical Enablement and Product Strategy. I have operated as an Internal Product Manager and a Technical Communication Specialist, bridging the gap between engineering and business teams. I treat technical documentation as a form of audience empathy by untangling complex logic to make the user experience feel effortless. In these roles, I found a genuine joy in the education of others, developing comprehensive training materials and visual resources to help teams navigate new tools and workflows.

Most recently, I established my own LLC to take on contract projects, allowing me to continuously sharpen my skills and modernize my workflows. For me, the act of learning is the most rewarding part of the job. I truly recognize the value in lifelong education, and I look forward to each new challenge as an opportunity to grow. I remain a sincere contributor who brings the grit of a stagehand, the precision of an engineer, and the strategic eye of a product manager to every project.

The Convergence: Product and Enablement

Suited Connector and Mortgage365

Today, my experience converges in Technical Enablement and Product Strategy. I have operated as an Internal Product Manager and a Technical Communication Specialist, bridging the gap between engineering and business teams. I treat technical documentation as a form of audience empathy by untangling complex logic to make the user experience feel effortless. In these roles, I found a genuine joy in the education of others, developing comprehensive training materials and visual resources to help teams navigate new tools and workflows.

Most recently, I established my own LLC to take on contract projects, allowing me to continuously sharpen my skills and modernize my workflows. For me, the act of learning is the most rewarding part of the job. I truly recognize the value in lifelong education, and I look forward to each new challenge as an opportunity to grow. I remain a sincere contributor who brings the grit of a stagehand, the precision of an engineer, and the strategic eye of a product manager to every project.

Projects

Projects

Projects

Projects

Lets Talk

Lets Talk

© 2026 Michael Walker. All Rights Reserved