My first job out of University was at this world-class science museum and Imax theatre. It usually involved blowing something up (or feeding it to an Indian python). But it also let me immerse myself in interface design and something new, the Internet.

Three projects I worked on launched my career path. First I helped create an exhibit (with the local Telco) that ran simple Mac applications and VHS video from a high school across town in order to simulate the broadband networks of the future. Next I developed a program, which had 12-year-old kids writing HTML (pretty basic in '94) and posting to the web. Finally, I hooked up with these teenage graphics wizards and together we built a pretty cool web site for the centre.

The best thing I took from this job though, was an ability to explain technology to people - a skill that has helped me win a lot of work since.

ROLES:

Designed and developed a wide-range of interactive exhibits and educational programs.

Led early web/multimedia development at the Centre.

Involved in marketing and public relations initiatives such as Centre publications, special visitor and media events, and outreach activities.

Managed a 10 person staff of designers and summer demonstrators.