1. If you could describe your job to a 5 year old, how would you describe it?

When I was younger, I really loved building and taking apart things. Whether it was a fort, sand castle, paper airplane, or even legos, I loved building things. I was constantly asking myself "how does this work?" or "how could it be better?" Today, I work with a team to create amazing things on computers. We're constantly trying to figure out how to improve. Right now, my team builds products that help leaders be better leaders.

2. What advice do you have young web developers that are wanting to get into marketing/advertising?

Take your time. Continue to refine your craft and find your focus. In web development, I see two tracks -- visual and technical. Yes, they can overlap, but those that choose one or the other are priceless. If you're wanting to be more technical, just commit (no pun intended) and grow your craft. Write code for the engineer that comes after you, not yourself. If you're more interested in UI and design, lean in and be the best css engineer there is. While you may feel like css is not a real development language, I see few that actually learn it correctly. I had the chance to work with some top art directors and designers in the world while working in advertising. Being able to style elements in a user interface correctly is paramount. Whichever path you choose, own it.

3. If you can thank someone that helped get you to where you are now, who would you thank and what would you say?

I'll always remember my first big kid job boss, Joe Lackey. I was 18, right out of high school, a self-taught designer and frontend developer. I was employee number six. I was intimidated; here was someone that started a business from scratch that hired me and paid me well. He was a real entrepreneur, the thing I had dreamed about since I was a little kid. He was a tough boss from time to time, but he ALWAYS listened to my ideas. He would go on to reinforce and praise my ideas, ultimately giving my confidence a boost like none other. Our company was later acquired by Playboy Enterprises and my boss was inviting me at the age of 19 or 20yrs old into meetings with the President of Playboy at the time, Jim Griffiths. In one meeting, Joe mentioned to Jim that I had an idea. I pitched my idea and Jim loved it. To the moon!! Joe was able to help me realize my potential and develop a foundation I carry with me today.

Not only did this help me grow exponentially back then, it is something I constantly think about when leading others today.

*Barry currently lives in San Luis Obispo, CA and is Director of Engineering for Sounding Board Inc.*