Resume.
A Snapshot of my Experience[ click to highlight ]
- Development Experience
- Design Experience
- Leadership & Process Improvement
Experience
Mediacurrent
Sr. Developer
January 2022 – August 2023
Led the development of numerous large-scale website projects using Drupal, decoupled technologies like Gatsby, React, Storybook, and Patternlab.
Played a key role in building the new decoupled Mediacurrent website, employing Storybook, React, and Drupal, while working directly with designers to address design-focused challenges.
Served as the lead developer for several long-term clients. Managing client meetings, expectations, and suggesting improvements to existing web properties while keeping the code base updated.
Worked with the Director of Engineering to implement a code base for project development using Storybook, Bootstrap and Drupal.
Collaborated with the creative team to streamline the design process, update requirements for handoff to the development team, and consult on a design library in Figma.
Initiated WAS Certification; progressed through approximately 50% before prioritizing higher-demand projects.
Actively participated in company accessibility meetings, sustaining engagement with ongoing accessibility initiatives.
University of Chicago - Professional Education
Sr. Associate Director of UX
June 2019 – December 2021
As Sr. Associate Director of UX, I collaborated closely with preferred vendors to guide the design of our web properties, ensuring alignment with our brand standards and objectives. My team led the development of these properties, with a strong emphasis on SEO, accessibility, and effective end-user communication.
Partnered with outside vendors to complete the rebranding and design of all UCPE web properties and marketing efforts.
Mentored the design team in adopting design best practices for the digital landscape.
Developed streamlined processes for email marketing campaigns using ExpressionEngine, Slate, and custom code.
Led the development team responsible for building the UCPE and Graham School web properties.
University of Chicago - Web Services
Sr. Front End Developer
October 2011 – June 2019
In my capacity as a Sr. Front End Developer, I engaged directly with clients across campus, leading the conceptualization and construction of web properties focused on student recruitment and information dissemination.
Managed end-to-end design and development projects for prominent campus schools, leaders, and institutions.
Collaborated with programming staff to design and develop user-friendly, client-facing applications for student use.
Initiated the revamping of Web Service’s design process, resulting in up to 60% cost savings for new projects.
Collaborated with campus leaders to create a campus wide design template for our for our multi-site website development solutions.
Served as the Interim Manager of Web Services, providing guidance and leadership to the talented WS team.
Implemented cost-cutting measures using templates and design patterns, optimizing resource utilization.
Responsible for recruiting, hiring, managing, and mentoring student workers for the Web Services Department.
Golden Technologies
Art Director / Front End Developer
March 2008 – October 2011
Burrell Professional Labs
Print / Web Designer
May 2004 – April 2006
Consultation
ArrowPOS
Design Consultant
January 2024 – Present
I was brought in as a consultant to collaborate with the development team building a new Point of Sale (POS) system for restaurant management. My primary responsibility has been to craft a comprehensive application design system using Figma. Recently, I have been actively involved in advising and developing the front-end templates using Vaadin. With a strong customer base, ArrowPOS anticipates that this new application will significantly impact the company’s operations and market presence.
Skwads.co
Founder
October 2023 – Present
I founded Skwads, a service catering to travel sports teams. Establishing a platform offering personalized websites, streamlining player information for recruiters. By implementing user-friendly interfaces and automations services, I’ve helped alleviate the need for technical expertise by administrators. An online store, powered by Print-on-demand technology, enables teams to help generate funds for the team.
Ryan Wake Design & Consulting, LLC.
Owner / Designer / Consultant
April 2004 – Present
Education
Ball State University
Bachelor of Fine Arts
Graphic Design
June 2000
Leadership
University of Chicago - Web Services
Interim Manager of Web Services (2017)
St. Mary's Church - Gary Diocese
Marriage Preparation Administrator (2004 – present)
St. Mary's School - Gary Diocese
Basketball Coach (2014 – 2018)
Softball Coach
Head & Assistant Coach of various Travel and League Teams (2010 – present)