Today we’d like to introduce you to Diego Salgado.
Diego, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’m a recovering private chef turned front end web developer. I’m originally from Quito, Ecuador where I studied culinary arts (I also studied in Paris, France for a stint). My wife and I moved to Boston in 2001 and shortly after that I started my own private chef business where my clients ranged from professional athletes to wealthy families to power couples. I even cooked for a five-year-old Saudi prince. But after more than 15 years, I decided to hang up my apron and try something new. I enrolled in Wyncode where I learned basic web development. I graduated this Spring and while I am still learning, I already have a few clients that I’m working with. The attention to detail that I learned from working in the kitchen, along with creativity that my clients demanded, are both traits that I bring to my web design projects.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The transition from the kitchen to the desk was little rough. I was the guy who typed with one finger at a time, so it really felt like I was starting over. I’m still learning and still studying, but at the same time I really enjoy creating something that is totally new and different from what I used to do.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about dsb design – what should we know?
I’m just starting out and still figuring out my niche. I would love to be able to combine my love for cooking with my web development skills. As a matter of fact, one of my initial clients is a restaurant in Boston. I am most proud of the fact that I had the courage to learn something new, especially since I was so comfortable in the kitchen.
What sets me apart is my background in food service and client relationships, as well as the fresh ideas I bring to my work.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My wife, Michelle, deserves a lot of credit for inspiring me to try new things. She is a visual and web designer, so now more than ever, we can work together. She gives me feedback, we share ideas and resources. After 18 years of marriage, it’s nice that we can continue to learn together and our interests are becoming more and more aligned.
Wyncode also deserves a lot of credit for teaching me the basics and giving me the tools to succeed during this next phase of my professional life.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 617.504.1219
- Email: dsbwebdesign@gmail.com
- Other: linkedin.com/in/diego-r-salgado
Image Credit:
Photos on pink background: Nicolas Guillen
Chef photo: Ritz Rivera
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