“A brandsmiths job is to support the startups in the Brandery to the
greatest extent possible utilizing their existing skill sets.” – Mike Hebert
Brandsmiths work with companies in The Brandery on specific capacities—currently, web development and design. They work full-time out of the Brandery for 4 months during the program. Brandmsiths get the opportunity to work on many different projects, challenging them to diversify their skillset, while putting their talent on display and helping create value for the companies.
Can you tell me a bit about your background? What past experiences made you a good choice for Brandsmith?
I have a broad technology background. I started programming at a young age—about 10 years-old. Got a bachelors degree in electrical engineering from the Naval Academy and a masters at NKU in business informatics.
What are some of your favorite projects you’ve worked on in the past? Can you describe them?
I really enjoyed making software and trying to start my own business. The whole experience was more about finding out whether I thought I could do that as a profession rather than about having a successful business. It was more about asking myself, ’Is this something I would enjoy doing as a full-time job?’.
What drew you to The Brandery?
I felt like this would be a great opportunity to “intern” with several companies and get a chance to develop my technical skills further, while interacting with a variety of startups. To me, the startup environment is inherently exciting.
Has it lived up to your expectations?
Absolutely. I would have to say that it’s pretty much what I expected as far as work content and environment. I am generally doing technology consulting and web development with the companies.
Would you do it again and why?
I hope that it wouldn’t be something I would need to do again. I would recommend it to anyone who is in the position I was, when I started. That’s a position where you could use the chance to put your skills on display to a variety of people. It’s a great opportunity to get exposure.
What can we expect to see from you in the future?
I don’t know. I’m thinking about a variety of things, but I don’t have a good sense of what is most likely. Ideally, I’ll have a few options; I’ll be able to make a decision at that point that won’t be driven as much by external forces, but more by my preferences. I haven’t decided yet what my preference will be.
Random Tidbits
Favorite song : “Tangerine” by Bighead Todd and the Monsters
Favorite color: Red
Favorite startup: Boomerang for Gmail
