Colin Bayer

Q: Tell us what it is you really do here.

A: Well, so far I've worn a few hats here. I kind of hit the ground running. My REAL purpose is to head up development in our burgeoning interactive department... with Flash, dynamic scripting languages, databases, Javascript, and HTML. In reality, I do a range of things both technical and creative, tactical and strategic, all relating to digital and interactive needs as well as our internal technical needs. It’s all very technical.

Q: What made you want to be a Developer?

A: I originally went to school to study history—it was a real interest of mine. I soon found out that "interests" don't necessarily translate to "careers". The academic pursuit of history was just not satisfying. I also felt like my career options would be limited if I kept down that path. After some minor soul searching and impromptu-quarter-life crisis management, I eventually graduated with a degree in Multimedia and Web Design. I focus mostly on development and implementation. I would say my current inspiration comes from being presented a problem or a challenge, and tackling it. I get genuine satisfaction out of figuring out how to do new things, doing things right, and getting them done quickly.

Q: What things have you done in the past that prepared you for this job?

A: My first jobs in web development were at small web-specific shops. When I moved to Chicago, I got a job at an advertising agency that had no in-house web talent. That was my first foray into the marketing world. Now that I have the agency background behind me, I've found my strengths lie in being a translator between the technical world and those who don't necessarily speak the language—be it speaking to the client, designers, or other developers.

Q: We hear you like cats. A lot. What gives?

A: They are beautiful, complicated creatures. Mysterious. Loving. Mischievous. Aloof. There is no end to my love of cats. People make fun of me for it but I don't care. I need them in my life! They cheer me up when I'm down, and provide me hours of entertainment. My cats, Tux and Turtle, have very distinct dispositions. Tux is extremely friendly and will follow me into any room in the house. Whenever people come over, he runs up to them to say hi. Turtle, on the other hand, is very skittish and neurotic. She is usually hiding under my bed. However, she can be very loving in her own way. I grew up with cats, and they've been around me my entire life.

Q: In our short time together, we've already seen you eat some adventurous foods! What's the craziest thing you've ever eaten?

A: Well, I do try and stay within my personal dietary restrictions, so there are some things that would be out of the question! That said, the last zany food I can remember having was prepared by a sushi chef I know in San Diego. He presented me with a shrimp that was, by all accounts, still moving when it was on my plate. Not being one to refuse good sushi or to be rude, I enthusiastically ate the poor beast. Lately, I've treated myself to Chicago's special spirit, the very bitter Malört. Try it. I dare you.