After earning my Master’s degree with a concentration in Computer-Aided Design from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, I launched my career in electronic publishing training and education.

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I was at the forefront of the technological revolution that transformed traditional art departments with the introduction of desktop computers. As Director of Training, I led entire teams—many of which had never used a computer before—through this challenging transition. I taught essential skills, such as using a mouse or stylus, and consulted on the full-scale implementation of digital workflows. During this pivotal time, experienced professionals had to adopt entirely new tools, while recent graduates often lacked an understanding of traditional processes. Without modern resources like the internet or YouTube, training relied on hands-on instruction and problem-solving, often conducted remotely without screen-sharing capabilities. Once teams were fully trained, adapting to ongoing advancements became easier, but the initial transition fundamentally reshaped the industry.

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As the owner of CHM Designs, I specialize in creating digital and print materials and providing customized training services tailored to small businesses. From polished marketing assets and digital designs using Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) and Canva, to user-friendly websites built on WIX, I help clients effectively communicate their brand and achieve their goals.

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I'd love to discuss your design needs! Contact me at cathy@chmdesigns.com to start collaborating!