A lifelong artist, Michael merged his love of computers and art into a career in multimedia development. He received his bachelor's degree in multimedia communications in 1998, with concentration on 3D and video animation. Working as a multimedia programmer, Mike expanded his knowledge base into multimedia animation for interactive CDs, web design, and computer animation. Joining the staff at Tam Communications in 1999 as a graphic designer and art director for the graphics and interactive group. In 2003, Michael founded Makai Design to offer a freelance design services to companies looking for an alternative to high-priced design houses.