David Burton (Multimedia 1999/Multimedia & Web Design BA 2004)

JOB TITLE:
IT Manager, SharperAgent.com
Denver CO 

JOB DESCRIPTION:
Drives product release strategy by working with the sales and marketing teams. Directs customer and internal feedback into new feature requirements and additions. Oversees and manages development teams’ daily tasks and workload. Works with third-party vendors to negotiate contracts and integrations. Manages IT budget, hardware and software purchases, as well as network architecture decisions. Member of executive committee helping steer the direction of the company and product lines. Creates research and development initiatives to stay ahead of competition. Interacts with corporate customers to ensure successful product launches. 

THE ROAD TO SUCCESS:
Worked as a contractor building an interactive game show in Macromedia Director at Ai Group in Denver... promoted to a full-time position doing all Flash work, quickly moved into Web design and eventually Web development...Promoted to project manager after two years. Worked for a consulting company doing Web development for about a year before being hired by SharperAgent.com 

ADVICE FOR STUDENTS:
“In this industry, references are golden. Make an impression, work hard, be enthusiastic and take initiative to go above and beyond whenever you can. The next time they hear of someone needing to fill a position, make your name be the first one that pops in their head.” 

OTHER THOUGHTS:
"I decided to attend The Art Institute just after I had begun at a four-year university. I found the curriculum at the university unrewarding and not specific to my interests. I found The Art Institute and the Multimedia program offered was exactly what I wanted to do for a career."