Jeff Courtney

Professional Background

I have over four decades as a professional communication graphics designer, creative director, illustrator and entrepreneur. 10 years as Director of Creative Services for ILEAD Schools Development and Maker Learning Network. I have also been an adjunct professor of design at California State University, Northridge for nearly 20 years, sharing my knowledge about the design process and ongoing passion for creating engaging and effective communications with hundreds of student designers.

What do you consider to be your greatest professional achievement so far?

Building dozens of great school and program brands for iLEAD Schools Development and Maker Learning Network. Doing my part to help change what K-12 education looks like for the next generations of learners. This and guiding hundreds of college students on what being a professional communicator and designer looks like.

On Sunday mornings, you can usually find me…

…tending to our garden. Gardening keeps my feet on the ground, my hands connected to Mother Earth, and my attention on the present moment.

What was your favorite subject in school?

Art and design of course! Loved the shop courses that used to be a part of public schools back in the day.

Flashback to when you were 10 years old. What do you want to be when you grow up?

Truthfully, I don’t ever recall thinking about growing up. I was having too much fun just being a kid!

What inspired you to pursue a career in this field, and how does it align with your passions and interests?

I have always been making stuff my entire life. I love working with my hands and creating things. My father was fond of saying, “Find what you love doing, then figure out how to earn a living doing it.” Passion + Interest x Career = Happy & Fulfilled Life!