1988: Early Experiments

Began experimenting with a Compaq Portable running DOS and Logo Writer. On its green CRT screen, he scripted graphics that sparked his lifelong passion for interactive design and technology.

1990s: Building Foundations

During the 1990s, Andy immersed himself in the transition from analog to digital technology. He built computers, created network cables, and set up LAN parties, becoming deeply involved in the early PC enthusiast scene. Subscribing to Macworld magazine, he memorized Silicon Graphics (SGI) machine specifications and dreamed of owning an SGI INDY workstation or their larger servers.

In 1994, Andy began learning Photoshop 2 on the family Macintosh Centris 610, experimenting with layer masks and exploring early digital photography. By 1998, he purchased his first significant PC, a Dell XPS266 featuring the first AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) and a 3dfx Voodoo 2 video card. Andy was captivated by 3D Mark demos, running benchmarks, and overclocking to explore the potential of cutting-edge hardware.

2000-2003: Education and Breakthroughs

After graduating high school in 2000, Andy joined the Art Institute of Seattle (AIS) to study in the newly launched Multimedia Web Design program. His skills in Photoshop and web design developed rapidly, and he began creating interactive interfaces, including car configurators inspired by his passion for automobiles.

In 2002, Andy authored a detailed interface design document that laid the foundation for his groundbreaking 2003 carousel interface. This document outlined dynamic, scalable, and data-driven web concepts, showcasing innovative features like touch-like interactions, skinnable design, and parallax effects. These ideas became fully realized in the 2003 website, a centerpiece of his graduation portfolio.

During this time, Andy worked at Go2Marine, where he developed scripts for web automation, integrating database-driven methods to streamline content generation. This experience reinforced his understanding of data-driven systems, a skill he carried into his more creative, groundbreaking work.

2003-2007: Professional Growth

In 2003, Andy joined Bahn Brenner Motorsport, where he optimized their website and connected their product database to Froogle.com, doubling their sales within weeks. His work also included creating the ABA/16V supercharger conversion, which gained widespread attention within the Volkswagen enthusiast community. 1996 VW GTI 16v - Sweet Sixteen - Eurotuner Magazine

From 2005 to 2007, Andy pursued a Graphic Design degree at the Art Institute of Seattle (AIS), further refining his artistic and technical skills. During this time, he built upon his earlier work, advancing the cinematic and interactive elements of his designs. His 2007 cinematic interface showcased groundbreaking features, including:

• Motion Blur: Adding dynamic realism to transitions.
• Weather-Responsive Visuals: Integrating atmospheric effects like clouds and rain.
• Dynamic Lighting: Creating immersive, visually striking experiences.
• XML-Driven Text: Enabling adaptable, data-driven content displays.

These features demonstrated Andy’s ability to combine art and technology seamlessly, influencing the evolution of user experience design.

The 2007 interface, a more advanced version of his 2003 carousel, became the highlight of his graduation portfolio and caught the attention of Content Master, where Andy was subsequently hired. His hire marked the beginning of a period where he contributed to cutting-edge multi-touch and gesture recognition technologies, setting the stage for his later work with Microsoft.

2008-2012: Multi-Touch and Microsoft

At Content Master, Andy developed advanced interfaces and eLearning content for Microsoft Surface 2, contributing directly to WPF 4’s multi-touch gesture library. His work included manipulation processing and gesture recognition, which became foundational to multi-touch user experiences.

Andy collaborated with Umesh Patel to create the first multi-touch website, demonstrating gesture recognition and manipulation processing in Silverlight. This work directly influenced Microsoft’s touch-driven strategies across their platforms. Andy also created technical posters and educational materials, further solidifying his role as both a designer and educator for developers and designers alike.

In 2009, Andy shared his innovations with industry leaders like Bill Buxton, further cementing his role as a trailblazer in touch interaction design. He also contributed to interfaces for Visual Studio, SQL Server, Azure, and other major Microsoft projects.

2013-2020: Freelance and Personal Focus

Andy continued to innovate as a freelance designer, creating UI designs for Bing voice search and iOS/Android apps for 3M Hearing and Respiratory Protection. During this time, he shifted focus to family life, becoming a father while maintaining his passion for design.

2018-Present: Entrepreneurship and Advocacy

In 2018, Andy founded Alpha Channel Design expanding his creative pursuits to physical products. He also launched ADASigns.com, using cutting edge 3d prting technology to create signs with accessibility and usability.