I believe that RGD is an important organization for the future of the design profession in Ontario and in Canada. The process of becoming an RGD was a great reminder of design knowledge. And just being a part of a larger organization that promotes and advocates for the design profession is rewarding. Although I have not become active with the board as of yet, I do plan on doing that someday. For now I take part in some of the RGD events and take advantage of the site.

Going to DesignThinkers and getting to see Massimo Vignelli was very memorable. I remember coming out of that day's sessions feeling invigorated and excited about design.

Becoming a designer was never in question for me. In high school I gravitated to the arts, and my co-op placement was at the local Oshawa newspaper, where I did paste up and worked the stat camera. From there it was a natural move. I live design everyday, in what I do and what I see around me. Packaging and branding is always something I seek out and look for the good and the bad. What design lets me do is solve problems and come up with creative solutions, no matter how big or small the project may be. I still sketch and draw ideas. I letterpress print with wood and metal type. I carve linoleum or wood illustrations and type. And all the while I bring my design sense and typographic eye to all of it.

I bring my passion to each project I take on. I always listen to what my clients needs are and will find solutions that are creative but that can be produced well. I believe in craftsmanship, and strive to achieve flawless execution. Deadlines and budgets are also things I keep in mind when designing anything. The fact that I letterpress gives me a good insight into the production process.