Learn More About Web Design Classes in Washington, D.C.
Web design is a multifaceted discipline that encompasses creating and arranging various elements on a website. It focuses on aesthetics, usability, and overall user experience. The process involves carefully considering the layout, color scheme, typography, imagery, and interactive features to communicate the website’s purpose and effectively engage visitors. Web designers utilize various tools and technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to bring their designs to life and ensure compatibility across different devices and browsers.
The history of web design can be traced back to the early days of the World Wide Web in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Initially, web pages were simple and text-based, lacking today’s visual sophistication. Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the World Wide Web, laid the foundation for structuring web content with his creation of HTML (Hypertext Markup Language). This breakthrough, along with advancements in web browsers and technologies like CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) in the late 1990s, enabled designers to exert more control over the presentation of web pages. Since then, web design has evolved rapidly alongside technological advancements and user expectations, shaping the digital landscape we interact with today.
What Can You Do with Web Design Training?
With web design training, you gain the skills to create visually appealing and functional websites for various purposes. Professionally, you can work as a Web Designer or developer, either as a freelancer, within a design agency, or as part of an in-house team for companies across industries. You can undertake projects ranging from designing e-commerce platforms, corporate websites, blogs, and portfolios to landing pages for marketing campaigns. Web design skills are also valuable in creating responsive designs that adapt to different screen sizes, ensuring optimal user experience across devices.
Beyond professional applications, web design skills can be utilized for personal projects or hobbies. You might create a personal website or blog to showcase your interests, skills, or portfolio. Additionally, you can design websites for friends, family, or local businesses, providing a valuable service while honing your craft. Some enthusiasts even create web-based games, interactive art projects, or community forums, leveraging their web design skills to build engaging online experiences for entertainment or social interaction. In essence, web design training opens up a world of creative possibilities for professional pursuits or personal endeavors.
What Will I Learn in a Web Design Class?
In a web design class, you can expect to acquire a diverse skill set encompassing both creative and technical aspects of website development. The curriculum typically covers fundamental design principles, color theory, typography, and the use of graphic elements to create visually appealing layouts. You’ll delve into the practical application of coding languages such as HTML and CSS, gaining proficiency in structuring and styling web content. Additionally, you’ll often learn to leverage industry-standard tools such as Adobe Creative Cloud and Figma for designing and prototyping. The program may also explore user experience (UX) design principles, emphasizing the importance of creating websites that are not only visually engaging but also intuitive and user-friendly.
To sum up, attending a web design class equips you with a well-rounded skill set that helps you navigate the complexities of modern web development.
Here’s a bulleted list of skills you’re likely to learn in a web design class:
- HTML: HTML is the backbone of web design and is used to structure web pages. It defines the content of the webpage, such as headings, paragraphs, images, and videos. Understanding HTML is important for web designers to structure and format content on a webpage.
- CSS: CSS is used to style web pages with colors, fonts, and layouts. It is used to control the presentation of a webpage and create a visually appealing design. Understanding CSS is important for web designers to create a consistent and attractive design for a website.
- JavaScript: JavaScript is used to create interactive web pages and enhance the user experience. It is used to add animations, pop-ups, and dynamic content to a webpage. Understanding JavaScript is important for web designers to create engaging and dynamic web pages that keep users interested and coming back for more.
- Adobe Creative Cloud: Adobe Creative Cloud is a collection of software used by web designers to create and edit graphics, images, and videos for websites. It includes applications such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere Pro, among others. Understanding how to use Adobe Creative Cloud is important for web designers to create visually appealing and professional-looking designs for websites.
- Figma: Figma is a web-based design tool used by web designers to create and collaborate on digital designs. It allows designers to create wireframes, prototypes, and high-fidelity designs for websites and mobile apps. Understanding how to use Figma is important for web designers to create and share design concepts with clients and team members collaboratively and efficiently.
- User experience (UX) design principles: UX design principles are used by web designers to create websites that are visually appealing, quick to load, and easy to navigate for users. These principles are focused on creating an enjoyable and intuitive experience for users, to keep them engaged and returning to the site. Understanding UX design principles is important for web designers to create websites that meet the needs of their users and provide a positive user experience.
How Hard Is It to Learn Web Design?
Learning web design can vary in difficulty depending on your prior experience, dedication, and the depth of expertise you aim to achieve. Becoming familiar with basic web design concepts, HTML, CSS, and perhaps some beginner-level tools and frameworks can be relatively straightforward and accessible through online tutorials, courses, and practice. However, mastering web design and becoming an expert involves continuous learning, honing your skills in design principles, user experience (UX), responsive design, accessibility standards, and staying updated with evolving technologies and trends. It requires dedication, practice, and often real-world experience working on projects to develop a deep understanding of the intricacies of web design and the ability to create polished, professional websites. While the initial learning curve may not be steep for beginners, reaching a high level of proficiency and expertise in web design typically requires significant time, effort, and commitment.
What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Learning Web Design?
One of the biggest challenges of learning web design is mastering the balance between creativity and functionality. Designing visually appealing websites that prioritize usability, accessibility, and responsiveness across various devices can be complex. Understanding design principles, typography, color theory, and layout techniques is crucial, but integrating these elements seamlessly while ensuring an intuitive user experience requires practice and iteration. Additionally, staying updated with rapidly evolving technologies, frameworks, and design trends adds complexity, requiring continuous learning and adaptation. Lastly, troubleshooting and debugging issues during the design and development process can be challenging, requiring problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
How Long Does It Take to Learn Web Design?
The time it takes to learn web design can vary greatly depending on factors such as prior experience, dedication, and the depth of knowledge desired. Generally, it may take months of consistent learning and practice to become comfortable experimenting with basic web design principles, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. However, mastering web design at a professional level typically requires years of continuous learning and experience. To excel professionally, web designers often pursue formal education, such as a degree or specialized courses, and engage in ongoing learning to stay updated with evolving technologies and design trends.
Should I Learn Web Design in Person or Online?
When choosing between in-person and online learning for web design, it’s important to consider your learning style and preferences. In-person learning, with its direct interaction with instructors and classmates in a physical classroom, offers immediate feedback, personalized attention, and a structured learning environment. This format allows for hands-on activities and collaborative projects, fostering a sense of community and accountability. However, it’s worth noting that in-person learning may involve commuting to a physical location, which can be time-consuming and costly. In addition, scheduling conflicts or geographical constraints may limit access to specific courses.
On the other hand, live online learning offers the convenience of remote education with real-time interaction. Students can participate in virtual classrooms from anywhere with an internet connection, eliminating the need for commuting and providing greater flexibility in scheduling. Live online classes often feature interactive tools such as video conferencing, chat rooms, and virtual whiteboards, facilitating engagement and collaboration. However, it’s important to consider that technical issues like poor internet connectivity or platform glitches may disrupt the learning experience. Moreover, live sessions might not suit everyone’s schedules due to time zone differences or conflicting commitments.
Asynchronous learning, on the other hand, allows students to access course materials and complete assignments at their own pace. This self-paced approach provides flexibility and autonomy, making it ideal for those with busy schedules or irregular commitments. Students can review lectures, readings, and tutorials at their convenience, accommodating diverse learning styles and preferences. However, it’s important to note that asynchronous learning lacks real-time interaction and immediate feedback, which may hinder comprehension and engagement. Some students may struggle to stay motivated and disciplined throughout the course without structured deadlines or accountability measures.
Ultimately, the choice between in-person, live online, or asynchronous learning depends on your preferences, lifestyle, and learning goals. Consider factors such as availability, preferred mode of interaction, and the level of support and guidance required to make an informed decision. Whether you thrive in a traditional classroom setting, prefer the flexibility of online learning, or value self-paced exploration, choosing the right learning format is essential to mastering web design skills.
What Should I Learn Alongside Web Design?
The following is a list of skills that commonly complement web design and are likely to be useful as you pursue a web design career:
- Graphic Design: Understanding principles of graphic design will enhance your ability to create visually appealing layouts, choose appropriate color schemes, and design engaging user interfaces for websites.
- HTML and CSS: While web design often involves tools like Adobe XD or Sketch for creating mockups, knowing HTML and CSS allows you to implement your designs into functional web pages, providing more control and flexibility.
- JavaScript: Proficiency in JavaScript enables you to add interactivity and dynamic elements to your websites, such as animations, form validation, and responsive design features, improving user experience.
- UX/UI Design: Learning about user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design principles helps you create websites that are intuitive, easy to navigate, and provide a seamless user experience, improving user satisfaction and encouraging repeat visits.
- Responsive Design: Understanding responsive design techniques ensures that your websites adapt smoothly to different screen sizes and devices, ensuring consistency across desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
- Adobe Photoshop: Photoshop is useful for preparing images for web use, creating custom graphics, and refining the visual elements of your designs with advanced editing tools.
- Adobe Illustrator: Illustrator is valuable for creating vector graphics, logos, icons, and other scalable assets that can be incorporated into web designs, enhancing visual appeal and brand identity.
- Adobe XD/Figma/Sketch: These tools are specifically designed for creating wireframes, mockups, and prototypes of websites and mobile apps, allowing you to quickly iterate and visualize your design ideas before implementation.
- Content Management Systems (CMS): Familiarity with popular CMS platforms like WordPress, Joomla, or Drupal enables you to build, customize, and manage websites efficiently, catering to diverse client needs and preferences.
- SEO Basics: Understanding search engine optimization (SEO) fundamentals helps you design websites that are optimized for search engines, improving visibility and ranking in search results, and driving organic traffic to your sites.
Washington, D.C. Industries That Use Web Design
In Washington, D.C., a hub of politics, government, and culture, various industries heavily rely on web design to enhance their online presence and engage with their audiences effectively.
Government and Public Service
One crucial sector is government and public service, encompassing federal agencies, local governments, and nonprofit organizations dedicated to serving the community. Web design plays a vital role in this industry by creating user-friendly websites that provide valuable information to constituents, facilitate online services such as applying for permits or accessing resources, and promote transparency and civic engagement. Government websites in Washington, D.C., often prioritize accessibility and usability to ensure residents can easily navigate and interact with essential services and information.
Education and Research
Another significant industry in Washington, D.C., is education and research, with renowned universities, research institutions, and educational organizations driving innovation and knowledge dissemination. Web design is essential in this sector for developing intuitive and informative websites that cater to diverse audiences, including students, faculty, researchers, and the public. Educational websites for universities in Washington, D.C., such as Georgetown University or American University, leverage web design to showcase academic programs, research initiatives, campus events, and resources, facilitating collaboration, learning, and intellectual exchange. Additionally, web design is crucial in online learning platforms, providing intuitive interfaces and interactive features to facilitate remote education and training opportunities.
Healthcare Industry
Furthermore, the healthcare and medical industry is a prominent sector in Washington, D.C., with renowned hospitals, healthcare providers, and research facilities advancing medical science and patient care. Web design is integral to this industry for creating user-friendly, patient-centric websites that offer valuable health information, appointment scheduling, telemedicine services, and patient portals for accessing medical records securely. Healthcare websites in Washington, D.C. -- like George Washington University Hospital’s website -- prioritize usability, accessibility, and data security to ensure that patients can easily navigate and engage with healthcare services online, promoting wellness and improving health outcomes.
Cultural Institutions
Lastly, the cultural and arts sector thrives in Washington, D.C., with museums, galleries, theaters, and cultural institutions enriching the community through exhibitions, performances, and artistic experiences. Web design plays a significant role in this industry by creating visually engaging and immersive websites that showcase cultural events, collections, educational programs, and online galleries. Cultural websites in Washington, D.C. leverage web design to attract visitors, promote cultural heritage, and provide virtual experiences that extend beyond physical boundaries, fostering appreciation and engagement with the arts.
Web Design Job Titles and Salaries in Washington, D.C.
Web design constantly evolves, with new technologies and design trends always emerging. As such, web designers must stay up-to-date with the latest design tools and techniques to remain competitive in the job market. Web design roles can include titles such as Web Designer, UX Designer, and Front-end Developer.
Web design roles commonly require a strong foundation in web design principles and core technical skills such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. A degree in a related field, such as graphic design or computer science, is also a plus. In addition to technical skills, web designers should have strong communication and problem-solving abilities, as they often collaborate with clients and team members to create and implement designs. Salaries for web design roles vary widely depending on experience, location, and the specific job duties required, but they can be competitive for those with solid skills and experience.
Here’s a bulleted list of job titles that involve web design skills:
- Web Designer: A Web Designer is responsible for designing and creating the overall look and feel of a website. They use their knowledge of user experience and design principles to create visually appealing and functional websites that meet the needs of their clients or target audience. Salaries for Web Designers in Washington, D.C. average around $92,000, but the range can fluctuate between $62,000 and $136,000.
- Front-End Developer: A Front-End Developer implements the visual and interactive elements of a website. They use their knowledge of programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create user-friendly websites that are optimized for speed and responsiveness. The average Front-end Developer salary in Washington, D.C. is $116,000 annually, but the range typically falls between $73,000 and $185,000.
- UX/UI Designer: A UX/UI Designer is responsible for creating and designing user interfaces with a focus on user experience. They work to ensure that the digital products meet the needs of the end-users while also achieving business goals. Salaries for UX/UI Designers in Washington, D.C. average around $102,000 per year and can range from $78,000 to $133,000.
- Graphic Designer: A Graphic Designer is responsible for designing visual content for various media platforms, including print, digital, and social media. They work to create compelling designs that communicate a message or brand identity to the target audience. Salaries for Graphic Designers in Washington, D.C. are about $67,000 for the median yearly income, ranging from $60,000 to $76,000.
- Visual Designer: A Visual Designer crafts the overall look and feel of a product or brand. They work to ensure that the design elements are cohesive and visually appealing, while also communicating the brand’s message and values to the audience. The average yearly salary of Visual Designers in Washington, D.C. is $101,000, but the range typically falls between $74,000 and $137,000.
- Interactive Designer: An Interactive Designer is responsible for designing and creating interactive digital experiences such as websites, mobile apps, and games. They work to ensure that the user experience is engaging, intuitive, and enjoyable, while also achieving the desired business goals. The average Interactive Designer’s salary in Washington, D.C. is $116,000, but the range generally falls between $106,000 and $129,000.
- Web Developer: A Web Developer creates, builds, and maintains websites and web applications. They work with programming languages and web technologies to build the front-end and back-end components of a website, ensuring that it functions smoothly and efficiently. Salaries for Web Developers in Washington, D.C. average around $103,000 per year and can vary between $89,000 and $118,000.
- Full Stack Developer: A Full Stack Developer is responsible for developing both the front-end and back-end components of a website or web application. They work with various programming languages, frameworks, and technologies to ensure that the site functions seamlessly and meets the needs of the end-users. The median annual salary for Full Stack Developers in Washington, D.C. is $127,000 and can vary between $89,000 and $181,000.
- Content Manager: A Content Manager curates, manages, and optimizes content for various digital platforms such as websites, social media, and blogs. They work to ensure that the content is high-quality, relevant, and engaging, while also aligning with the brand’s message and goals. Salaries for Content Managers in Washington, D.C. average around $75,000, but the range generally falls between $50,000 and $111,000.
- Digital Marketing Specialist: A Digital Marketing Specialist creates and implements marketing campaigns across various digital channels such as social media, email, and search engines. They work to increase brand awareness, drive traffic and engagement, and generate leads and sales through digital marketing efforts. The average annual salary for Digital Marketing Specialists in Washington, D.C. is around $71,000, ranging anywhere from $48,000 to $104,000.
Web Design Classes from Noble Desktop
Noble Desktop’s Intro to HTML & CSS course will help you master the basics of webpage creation using HTML and CSS. This beginner-level course, offered at an affordable price, equips you with essential web development skills, allowing you to hand-code webpages from scratch, format text and images, and harness the power of Cascading Style Sheets. Held in an interactive online classroom, the course provides hands-on learning opportunities, with upcoming sessions available. Upon completion, you’ll have a strong foundation in HTML, including paragraph formatting, link creation, and image insertion, as well as an understanding of CSS, including tag and class selectors. Additionally, you can explore certificate programs in Full-Stack Web Development, Web Design, and Software Engineering offered by Noble Desktop.
Noble Desktop offers a comprehensive Web Design Certificate program aimed at adult learners aged 18 and older, regardless of prior experience. Affordably priced, the program covers essential web design and development skills, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and WordPress. You’ll learn to design and code responsive websites, create interactive prototypes using Figma, and build a professional portfolio to demonstrate your expertise to potential employers and clients. Classes are held both online and at Noble Desktop’s location on Madison Avenue in Manhattan, with multiple start dates available throughout the year, each spanning several sessions. By the end of the program, you will have gained the necessary skills to kickstart your career as a well-rounded Web Designer.
Noble Desktop’s UI Design Certificate program will help you become a skilled UI Designer and master essential design concepts and apps used by professionals. Suitable for all levels and ages 18 and older, the interactive online classroom course covers composition, typography, color, interactivity, user interface elements, and best practices. You’ll learn to design responsive webpages and mobile apps using Figma, Photoshop, and Illustrator, creating an impressive portfolio of projects to showcase your skills to potential clients or employers. This New York State Department of Education-approved certificate program requires no prior experience as long as you are comfortable using computers. Remote learning options are available, with live instructors guiding you through the course material. Upon registration, you will receive additional information on how to log on and participate in the class.
Noble Desktop’s Figma Bootcamp will guide you to mastering Figma and excelling in UI/UX design by covering the basics to advanced features. You’ll craft stunning user interfaces, design complex prototypes, and collaborate seamlessly with Figma’s cloud-based platform. Suitable for all levels and ages 18 and older, the course is affordable and offers interactive online classroom sessions with various start dates and times. Upon completion, you will thoroughly understand Figma’s capabilities for UI and UX design, including crafting visuals, building prototypes, and utilizing components and prototyping tools. The course emphasizes practical skills like adding interactions and animations to designs, with the flexibility of remote learning available.
Web Design Corporate Training
Employees with web design training are a tremendous asset to businesses that want to invest in their online presence by creating a functional, attractive website. Corporate digital skills training is available from Noble Desktop for companies looking to train their employees in web design. You can send participants to regularly scheduled group classes held virtually or schedule a private session for your team. Noble Desktop offers training for both beginner and advanced users and can tailor the lesson plan to fit the needs of your team.
For more detailed information about corporate digital skills training, contact corporate@nobledesktop.com.
Learn From Noble Desktop’s Experienced Web Design Instructors in Washington, D.C.
As the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., is a hub for government, public service, and major organizations, which means there’s ample opportunity for professional development. If you’re looking to expand your knowledge in the field of tech, data, business, or design, you can explore training options available to both individuals and federal professionals. Classes are right in the heart of the city, offering knowledgeable instructors with decades of combined training and a wide range of specializations. From their real-world experience in the field, these instructors provide valuable insights that help students get comfortable while learning the material. Not to mention, the skills they develop in the classroom are practical and transferable, meaning students can put their newfound knowledge right to work.
Training with Noble Desktop’s team is easy with the modern facilities located at 600 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, D.C., 20024. It’s mere steps away from L’Enfant Plaza and offers an array of benefits, like a professional yet welcoming environment and a modern workspace. Getting there from anywhere in D.C. is straightforward, whether by Metro, bus, or car. L’Enfant Plaza is served by multiple Metro lines, and there are several bus routes that stop nearby. Those driving can also access parking garages that are easily within walking distance.
Web design combines visual communication and user-friendly structure to create sites for agencies and businesses. Noble Desktop's instructors teach modern tools and best practices so students can design pages that look polished and are easy to navigate. Learning at this school also offers a wide range of professional development opportunities, with classes led by expert instructors who can help you acquire skills that get you ready for the real world.
Brian Simms
Brian is an educator and training leader passionate about helping professionals grow in fields like project management and AI. He designs adaptive learning programs that combine instructor-led sessions, live online experiences, and self-paced study, making training practical and within reach for anyone. Brian’s work also centers heavily around AI integration, particularly in training situations to show organizations how easy it can be applied to the workplace, showing ways to tackle real-world problems, enhance leadership, streamline projects, and support better decision-making. Beyond teaching, he has also developed curricula and led training on a massive scale. Brian’s blend of talents and interests makes him well-positioned to train others and help them navigate the complexities of the subject matter.
Clarissa Corbin
With more than 25 years of experience, Clarissa is a seasoned corporate trainer, Project Manager, and Business Consultant and has helped professionals and organizations alike achieve tangible results around the world. Her work has taken her to amazing places around the world, from China to Africa, training over 10,000 participants in leadership, project management, business analysis, and emerging technologies. Clarissa has worked with teams at NASA, Microsoft, Citibank, and FEMA, just to name a few, and is known for designing interactive yet practical sessions where her listeners can apply their skills immediately. At Graduate School USA, she played a pivotal role and contributed to numerous programs, including the Managing for Results course. She’s a quality instructor, focusing on subjects like project management, AI, and even Adobe, and has a heavy commitment to professionalism, innovation, and student success.
Michelle Proctor
Michele’s professional record in Human Resources, organizational development, and leadership training has been acquired over 25 years in the field. She is a Business Strategist and HR innovator who has helped public, private, federal, and higher education organizations on their path to success. In particular, Michele excels in organizational assessment, project and performance management, workforce development, change management, conflict resolution, and AI initiatives. She prides herself on guiding individuals to leverage their strengths while fulfilling their professional lives. Her consulting work includes leading the DC Courts HR Division’s Five-Year Strategic Plan and Workforce Development Program, “Fulfilling Our Future.” She’s also held senior executive positions at Howard University, the Air Line Pilots Association, and Executive Transitions International. She’s currently working as an adjunct faculty at Graduate School USA and Anne Arundel Community College.
Alan Zucker
Alan Zucker brings real-world expertise from both the federal government and Fortune 100 companies to the classroom. With more than 25 years of professional work in project management, he makes for an ideal instructor. He has managed the project execution organization of 175 professionals, led high-visibility strategic initiatives, and delivered thousands of successful projects. His education began at George Washington University, where he earned his Bachelor’s, before progressing to earn a Master's in Economics from the University of Maryland. Moreover, he holds a wide variety of certifications, such as the Project Management Professional Certification (PMP), PMI-ACP, Disciplined Agile Coach, SAFe Program Consultant, Certified Scrum Professional, and Agile Leadership Academy Trainer. Alan is an active member of the project management community, having served as a keynote speaker, frequent industry commentator, and author of nearly 150 articles on project management.
Tashea Coates
Tashea is a Human Resources Executive and Federal Consultant, holding over 23 years of experience across multiple federal agencies, including the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, Treasury, State, and Health and Human Services. Known for her ability to strategize and take the lead, Tahsea has transformed HR policies to align with mission strategies and outcomes, influencing government-wide procedures such as onboarding and pay equity. Tashea is a staunch advocate for ethical leadership, inclusivity, and organizational success. In addition, she prides herself on her authenticity and purpose-driven spirit, which translates into her work as an educator as well. In addition to teaching subjects like AI. She’s an author and entrepreneur, and is always looking for ways to help organizations and individuals alike.
Charles Byrd
With a strong foundation in federal human resources management and legal counseling, Charles is a highly knowledgeable Employee and Labor Relations Consultant in Washington, D.C. He began his education at Loyola University, earning his B.A. in Business Administration and Political Science, before graduating from the University of Baltimore School of Law. Throughout his career, Charles has guided agencies through complex HR and labor-related challenges, managed HR programs, and represented organizations in legal proceedings. He has also designed and delivered specialized training in human resources, project management, and marketing. Charles’ professional background has led to numerous accolades and awards, showcasing his impact in the field.
David E. McCullin
Dr. David E. McCullin, better known as Dr. Mac, specializes in strategic communication, homeland security, data analytics, and accurate decision-making. Prior to his work at Graduate School USA, Dr. Mac obtained his Bachelor’s in Engineering, his Master’s in National Security and Strategic Studies, and a Doctorate in Management of Complex Adaptive Systems. He served 24 years in the U.S. Army, including 13 in Special Operations. He later worked at the Department of Homeland Security as an Intelligence and Infrastructure Security Analyst for nearly a decade. Through his education and solid professional career, he has been able to teach students a variety of important skills and has also developed innovative learning tools and games that help improve decision-making and analytical thinking skills.
Natalya Bah
As a part-time instructor at Graduate School USA for over 15 years, Natalya’s expertise cannot go unnoticed. She’s an educator and has developed curricula for the school, including the Change Management Workshops and several project management courses. Not to mention, she’s also served as a learning coach, facilitator, and instructor for government leadership programs and has developed the Define and Achieve Your Goals Process. Natalya earned her Master’s in Project Management and her Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification, making her a well-qualified and effective educator, project manager, coach, and consultant.
Alan McCain
Alan is a retired combat veteran of the U.S. Air Force and Navy with over 30 years of experience in federal and commercial budgeting, auditing, programming, operations, supply chain management, and IT acquisitions. He holds an MBA from George Washington University and a Teaching Certification from Harvard’s Bok Center for Teaching and Learning. Throughout his career across federal, state, and local government agencies, Alan has worked for numerous departments, such as the Department of State and Defense, as well as the Office of the Mayor of D.C. Alan is also an accomplished consultant and business strategist, having aided in the development of organizational projects at Lockheed Martin and PwC, to name a few. His background and lengthy career make him an ideal instructor for those looking to learn more about finance, accounting, and project management.
Derk Mattocks
As a skilled instructor and business leader, Derk Mattocks possesses the skills and career experience to bolster his credibility. He gained his B.S. in Organization Management from Nyack College and his Master’s in Leadership and Military Installation Management, as well as an MBA in Financial Management and Analysis from the University of Maryland. He is a licensed Certified Advanced Professional Business Coach and trained mediator, with the certification to facilitate the “Five Practices of Leadership” workshops. Derk has also served as a Senior Advisor and Instructor for the U.S. Army. Overall, he has the credentials to serve as an accomplished and well-versed instructor, often covering topics related to project management and marketing.
Melanie Dooley
Melanie is a federal acquisition and contracting expert with over 30 years of professional experience in Washington, D.C., spanning both government and education sectors. She has served as the Vice President of Acquisition Policy at SAIC and as the Managing Editor of the Federal Contracts Report at Bloomberg BNA. She’s currently an instructor at Graduate School USA, often teaching classes related to the marketing realm. She’s a Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) and a Fellow of the National Contract Management Association, positioning her as a person with incredible leadership skills and knowledge of her field. She earned her MBA from Georgetown University and is known as a clear, trusted instructor who consistently challenges students to take their skills to the next level.