Work Experience

My professional journey in technology began during the transformative era of the late 1990s.

There is no limit to what we can dream up organically, and put to effective use electronically.

Technical Background and Education

My introduction to the internet began in 1994 when I was invited to serve as a channel moderator for CompuServe, overseeing chat forums. This early experience sparked my curiosity about computers and inspired me to pursue a career in web technology. To further my skills, I enrolled in Silicon Valley College in 1995—at the time, the only technical school offering specialized training in computer graphic design, video editing, multimedia and HTML classes.

As the web job market began to flourish, the demand for candidates with hands-on web experience grew rapidly. Employers frequently scouted Silicon Valley College for emerging talent. During this time, I created my first personal website in 1995 using Notepad—admittedly a humble start. I later improved the site using Spry Mosaic, one of the earliest graphical web browsers offered by CompuServe. This revamped site showcased some of my Bryce 3D renderings (a nod to anyone who remembers Kai's Power Tools). These experiences laid the foundation for my career in web technology.

Is it pronounced JIF or GIF? I always said JIF, because that's how Steve Wilhite pronounced it. Go figure... or more appropriately, Jo fijure!

Professional Experience

1996

I began my career by pursuing website development and graphic design projects, contracting with companies such as ProVista International, March Instruments, Tegal Scientific, GB Products, and other organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area.

1997–2000: Web Developer, ZapMe! Corporation
In Fall 1997, I joined ZapMe! Corporation as their web developer. ZapMe! provided a bundled product featuring satellite internet connectivity, a school library network of 5–15 computers, a custom web browser, and a proprietary educational website, the ZapMe! Netspace. As one of the company's first seven employees, I contributed significantly to its growth to over 250 employees by mid-2000.

My roles included serving as the corporate webmaster (designer and web developer), project manager for third-party content integrations, and microsite developer. I was primarily responsible for the ZapMe! Netspace, managing over 5,000 pages of educational content, integrating third-party resources, and curating a Yahoo-style index of over 10,000 educational websites. As the company expanded, I led and trained a team of content editors who maintained the ZapMe! Netspace.

The platform gained widespread popularity, with thousands of schools nationwide adopting it. High-profile partners and advertisers included Ford, Toshiba, Dell, Levi’s, The Gap, Clairol, and the U.S. Army. The demos of the ZapMe! Netspace that my team and I created played a pivotal role in helping leadership secure venture capital funding and advance the company’s IPO.

2000–2002: Web Services Manager, rStar Networks
From Fall 2000 to late 2002, I worked as the Web Services Manager for rStar Networks, a spin-off of ZapMe! based in San Ramon, California. rStar focused on delivering satellite internet connectivity, custom web browsers, and websites tailored for vertical markets such as pharmacies, agriculture, and the automotive industry.

My responsibilities included serving as the corporate webmaster, developing web-based product demos, creating intranet solutions, and integrating third-party products. rStar’s final vertical, AutoNetworks, aimed to support the collision repair industry with internet connectivity, an intranet portal, and tools for payroll, data distribution, purchasing, and distance training using satellite multicast and video conferencing.

After rStar was ultimately acquired by its parent company in 2002, Gilat, and operations moved to Florida, I transitioned to contract web development in the Bay Area, creating web solutions for organizations like Cat Cay Yacht Club, Cathedral Basilica in San Jose, Alcor Solar, and AccuSpace.

2003–2007: Webmaster, MedicAlert Foundation
In Fall 2003, I became the Webmaster for MedicAlert Foundation, the world’s largest nonprofit of its kind. Founded in 1956, MedicAlert gained international recognition for its medical ID bracelet, which alerts first responders to a member’s critical medical information during emergencies.

As Webmaster within the Marketing department, I developed a complete front-end website redesign using ASP.NET, integrating it with a Microsoft SQL Server database to manage thousands of member records. This process also involved designing the GUI. The redesign aimed to deliver an intuitive and engaging user experience while aligning with the organization's branding and technical requirements.

In addition to my role as Webmaster, I took on significant Marketing responsibilities, conducting in-depth research and overseeing various marketing initiatives. I successfully planned, implemented, and managed effective sponsored pay-per-click (PPC) banner ad campaigns on Google’s content network to maximize visibility and engagement. This involved creating banner ad designs, selecting keywords, refining audience targeting, and continuously monitoring performance metrics to optimize effectiveness and ROI. Additionally, I created and distributed the organization's weekly e-newsletters to members. This involved designing the HTML layouts, and ensuring effective delivery through their email platform, and analyzing key performance metrics such as open rates and click-through rates.

I also developed interactive Flash-based demos illustrating MedicAlert’s processes and co-led the creation of the world’s first USB-based personal health record (PHR), E-HealthKey, for the Sandisk U3 platform. This innovative application featured a small footprint design, leveraging Flash/ActionScript and an XML database, enabling quick and reliable access for members and EMTs if needed.

2007–Present: Web Developer, Gallo Center for the Arts
In late 2007, I joined the Gallo Center for the Arts in Modesto, CA, as their web developer. The Gallo Center is a premier performing arts venue, housing two distinct venue spaces for GCA productions. It also serves as the home for esteemed organizations such as the Modesto Symphony Orchestra, Central West Ballet, Opera Modesto, and Modesto Performing Arts.

My role involves developing and maintaining the Gallo Center’s digital presence, which includes creating and managing responsive websites to ensure an engaging and seamless user experience across devices. I also maintain the Tessitura database to support event management and ticketing operations. Additionally, I manage the SharePoint intranet to enhance internal project collaboration and communication, administer Google Analytics to track website performance, and oversee the GTM (Google Tag Manager) container for ad tracking and efficient 3rd party script management. These efforts collectively ensure the Gallo Center’s digital infrastructure effectively supports its operational and strategic goals.

In addition, over the years, I have implemented e-marketing campaign solutions to drive engagement, designed and produced high-definition TV spots for Comcast, AT&T U-verse, and gas station advertising platforms, developed artwork and programmed software for the Gallo Center’s 20x30-foot LED exterior marquee sign, and created various print and digital collateral during the early years of my tenure.

The Gallo Center is a remarkable venue, and I take great pride in contributing to its ongoing success and community impact.