Leslie Byrd

Background

About Leslie Byrd

I am a graphic designer and trainer dedicated to helping the visual novice create more attractive and effective communication materials. With a passion for training, I teach at North Carolina State University’s Technology Training Solutions at the McKimmon Center where I have developed the curriculum and course content for a number of classes, including: Design Principles for Non-Designers; Preparing Web Graphics; and Photoshop Project: Website Layout (for which I also wrote the manual). In addition, I have taught other classes from preexisting manuals, including: Adobe Photoshop and Adobe InDesign. The class I developed in 2011: Design Principles for Non-Designers, is offered on-site to businesses and organizations, and also in independent classroom settings across a much larger geographical area. I know better than most that design principles can be understood and applied by those who don’t necessarily think of themselves as “creatives”. I started college with the goal of getting a degree in advanced math and ended up studying art. That journey gives me special insight into teaching the principles of design to people who aren’t looking to become full-time designers, but simply want to know how to create stronger communication materials. I enjoy seeing that “oh-I-get-it” look on student’s faces. During my 25+ years in the advertising and communications industry I have served a broad client base, ranging from health care and high-tech to education and manufacturing. While I’m up for any challenge, I am most interested in serving the visual communications needs of non-profit organizations and educational institutions. I believe that graphic design can and should be used to educate and affect change. Specialties: • Energetic, imaginative trainer • Creative curriculum and course development • Design and layout • Proficient in Adobe InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator