Technology

Associate of Applied Science in Web Design

Brian Van Skiver
Web Designer

Brian Van Skiver has been working in Web design for almost 10 years. Since earning his associate degree in Web design from the Art Institute of Dallas in 2003, he has held titles such as interactive animator, graphics producer, curricular technologist, Web designer, and Web master. Van Skiver’s creative abilities go beyond simple Web design, though, as he also specializes in areas such as flash media design, graphics consulting, digital print, business identity design, and digital management. Currently, he is a Web designer and user interface graphics engineer at one of the top 20 television broadcasting companies in the United States. In addition, he is the owner and lead Web designer at Virtuoso Design, a Web design company dedicated to providing businesses with a defining media presence.

Why did you choose to major in Web design?

I have always loved to create and present art and wanted to make a living producing art. My father told me in the early 80s that I need to learn about this new thing called the computer.

What did you like/dislike about majoring in Web design?

I like the ability to be able to work from anywhere in the world. I dislike the long hours, but I would rather spend the hours doing what I do than pouring over spreadsheets.

How has your major impacted your career or influenced your career path?

I had no career path before graduating from the Art Institute of Dallas.

What knowledge/skills did you obtain from majoring in Web design that you still put to use in your current position?

The field I am working in changes from month to month, but the foundation of my knowledge of markup language is something that I can say I use daily.

What advice would you give to students thinking about majoring in Web design?

It is a great career that has the ability to take you any and everywhere. Your choice can allow you to work in some, if not all, of the newest and most exciting industries out there. No matter how hard they try to automate design, the human touch and strategic thinking will always be in demand.