Who is this Web Nerd?
Hello there! My name is Eric Schmidt (not that Eric Schmidt – he wears much nicer suits than I do). I’m a self-employed web designer, Kalamazoo Jaycee, marketer and hardcore geek.
Welcome to this blog, I hope you enjoy your stay.
A bit about my background
I graduated from Michigan State University in 1996, and I started my career in the world of print – designing magazines, brochures, ads, business cards. But being a geek, I could see the world was headed online.
In 2002, I did something a little crazy. I quit a very secure job with an ad agency and started my own web gig: the very cleverly named Eric Schmidt Design.
I haven’t looked back.
I joined the Kalamazoo chapter of the Jaycees in 2005, and it was one of the best things I have ever done. It started as a way to make business contacts; it eventually became so much more.
Why did you create this site?
Being the guy behind the Kalamazoo Jaycees website, I always wanted to know how other chapters presented themselves online.
One afternoon, my curiosity got the better of me, and I started exploring Jaycee websites from all over the country. It was obvious fairly quickly – most Jaycee chapters are really struggling with their web presence.
Believe me, I know how hard it can be – there are many chapter needs, a lot of opinions, and if you aren’t a professional web developer, the technology can be overwhelming.
Here’s the kicker, though: for people under 25, a website is the first – and often only – place they will go to learn about your chapter. If your first impression fails to impress, they will quickly move on.
Personally and professionally, the Jaycees have given me a lot. It’s time I give back. If my knowledge and experience can help a chapter prosper even a little bit, I’m happy to do it.
Why do you call yourself “Web Nerd”?
I can’t stand the term “Webmaster,” so I started introducing myself as “Web Nerd.” It seemed to stick, so I’ll roll with it. Besides, there are much worse things to be called than “nerd.” Nerds rule!
How you can help
I’m going to work really hard to deliver some great content, based on my own web “adventures.” If you are involved with the Jaycees – board member, general member, webmaster – please feel free to share your thoughts and experiences.
Leave comments. Send me e-mail. Tell your friends about this site, and bring them into the discussion. If we all put our heads together, we can accomplish great things.
Enjoy.
