Over that 23 years, I have worked almost exclusively in integration development. The first company I worked for was New Era of Networks, an IBM partner who was a pioneer in Middleware and developed the first Rules and Formatting Engines for IBM MQ Series.
After moving to Florida in my early 30’s, I started working for the Orange County Clerk of Courts in Orlando. There, I became the Manager of Solutions Architecture, managed a team of developers, and served as the Technical Lead for multiple large-scale initiatives. We integrated, replaced and/or consolidated the majority of the Clerk’s software during the time that I was there. It was hard to leave. I had a great team, and we made a huge impact in the organization… but I knew that it was time to move ahead.
Now, my wife and I have the privilege of running Torch Designs full-time. In my newest adventure, I love that I have the opportunity to really help businesses succeed. I have always enjoyed technology, and it is incredibly rewarding to be able to use that gift to bless my customers.
My first delve into the graphic design world happened when I was 16. I got a job hand-painting signs for a local sign shop (people actually used to do that). After that, I was hooked. I knew I wanted a job in the creative field… not sign painting, but designing. Shout out to my high school art teacher who encouraged me to go to school for graphic design, and the rest is history.
For 20 years, I have done just about every type of graphic design job out there, as well as photography, illustration, and even a little video editing. I have worked as a graphic designer and creative director for three international companies. My work can be seen as far away as Japan, Russia, and in stores all over the continental U.S. That’s one thing about designers, unlike fine artists we don’t get to sign our work. We just get to know it rocks, and it’s there.
Now I get to be the Creative Director for Torch Designs… I can say that it has been quite a journey. I love working for local and national clients. It can be fun, exciting, and – like a box of chocolates – you never know what you are going to get next!
Michael is a Marine Corps. Veteran. After high school, he married the love of his life, Deanna, and they moved to Camp Lejeune, NC where he served for 5 years. His military background makes him the perfect match for our Project Support role. Michael leads clients through a project from start to finish and provides support thereafter. What makes Michael a special asset to our team is not only his attention to detail but his compassion for people. Michael is passionate about people and getting them the care they need. At Torch Designs you not only walk away with a cool website but a business relationship you can trust and enjoy.
Deanna always wanted to be on the website… also if you sign up you get cookies.
She is venturing out on her own to learn to make even better treats for the masses. Look out for Delightful Treats. It’s a real thing.