Matt Vojecak - Made By Things
LinkedIn Post June 2022 | Art Institute of Pittsburgh 2008 Graduate
As a business owner and creative director, what feels like 30+x/day, I have to scan a situation and determine the best approach. I often pick a person from my past that would have a great strategy and simply respond as they would.

I want to inspire like Sunil Ketty
I want to understand individual needs like Jennifer Hunter
I want to be a technical expert like Jeff Zehner
I want to be honest and tough like Angela Love
I want to be a problem solver like Grant Miller


Sometimes, I'm honestly surprised by the responses I have to things, almost as if I'm STILL learning from all of these people many years since I've last talked to them personally.

Who are these people for you?

Evidence of Student Learning
Student Spotlight | Kayla Dodd | Concept Artist
SP 2022 Graduate
Student Spotlight | Nathan Bremer | Motion Graphics & Editing
SP 2022 Graduate
Student Spotlight | Andre Foster | 3D Modeling
SP 2019 Graduate
Evidence of Student Learning
DFX221 | Visual Fundamentals for Digital Media
Visual Fundamentals for Digital Design explores design theories and user
centered design process through the use of Adobe Photoshop and
Illustrator. Students will gain visual literacy as well as the basics of user
experience design and methodology that will be synthesized into
graphics, media, or other digital applications.

DFX221 | Final Motion Graphics and Logo Design
Evidence of Student Learning
DFX240 | Introduction to Interactive Media
Expands on skills and techniques specific to developing interfaces through user-experience design.  Students will develop a better understanding of the impact of graphical user interfaces in digital media.
Student Finals Adobe XD App Prototyping
All Finals are Interactive | Click App Buttons to Navigate (Not all Buttons Function)


Evidence of Student Learning
DFX245 | 3D Modeling Fundamentals
Introduction to 3d Modeling will teach students the basic processes and elements of 3d to enable the student to understand modeling and texturing at their most basic levels.  Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to create and texture a model from start to finish.  The student will also have a grasp of 3d theories that will allow them to easily move between other 3d programs on their own.
Evidence of Student Learning
DFX307 | 3D Lighting & Texturing
This course explores the various lighting and texturing techniques applied to computer-generated graphics.  The discussion will cover complex theories, concepts, and principles of lighting and texturing.  The core focus will be the application of materials, textures, and lighting to invoke an aesthetic quality of output
Student Show Reel & Course Projects
The demo reel is a small collection of some of my student projects. I had the opportunity to work closely with creative and talented artist. As an faculty member, my goal is to ensure my students get more than just course content. I promote positive attitudes while focusing on character and strong work ethics.
I have the honor of using this work to represent my time as an instructor. However, the students deserve all the credit.
To the students represented on this reel and beyond, I appreciated all the hours of hard work to develop the skills necessary to become successful in this creative industry. I wish you the best of luck with whatever path you choose.
Educational Accomplishments
Master of Fine Arts
Columbus College of Art & Design | 2014 - 2016
Computer Art, Animation, & Design

Design Thesis | Process Book - Interactive Multimedia Display Wireless Headphones

Master of Education
Carlow University | 2007 - 2010
Art Education

Thesis: The integration of technology in higher education
Masters of Education in Art Education
Carlow University, Pittsburgh, PA

5th Year Certification
Carlow University | 2004 - 2005
K - 12 | Art Education


Bachelor of Fine Arts
Bowling Green State University | 1993 - 1997
Compute Art & Animation

Teaching History
Northern Kentucky University
2017  - Present
Tenure Track Assistant Professor
Media Informatics
Department of Communication | College of Informatics


Columbus College of Art & Design
2015 - 2017
Adjunct Instructor | Animation Department



Columbus State Community College
2013 - 2017
Adjunct Instructor
Interactive Media Program
Integrated Media & Technology Department



Pittsburgh Technical Institute
2012 - 2013
Adjunct Instructor
School of Design | Graphic Design & Multimedia



The Art Institute of Pittsburgh
2005 - 2012
Full Time Faculty
Media Arts & Animation Department


High School Teaching Experience

Fox Chapel Area High School
2004 - 2005
Student Teaching - 2004
Art Teacher Grades 9-12



My Philosophy of Art Education
      My personal teaching philosophy is to help expose and enhance the creativity and imagination of all students.  Art should allow an individual to express themselves freely through the use of different mediums.  Computer-based art education should also encourage students to become more aware and appreciate the development of art through time.  I believe that computer art should teach the students about themselves and the world around them.  A clear understanding of design concepts, principles and research are fundamental to all areas of computer generated art. 
     A critical component of my classroom strategy is to engage students in different activities that reinforce true work environments.  With continued professional development, I am aware of current industry standards which fuels course lectures and assignments.  My previous career developing PC video games naturally influences project management through individual and group exercises.  A direct result of my approach to core class curriculum is a better understanding and application of time management and organizational skills.  I believe in critical feedback from a variety of perspectives to support the maturation process of any creative individual.  I build upon professional personality traits by involving students in critiques and presentations. 
     Computer Art, Animation, and Design education is intended to develop skills and techniques to better prepare an individual for a creative career.  More importantly, attaining an education is to help an individual grow and develop into a respectful and responsible member of society.  Teaching content is an essential part of being an educator.  Guiding students to develop their character as a professional is what makes the job worth the effort.  My goal as a faculty member is to create a positive learning environment that helps promote student success inside the classroom and out. 
     Art and education are key aspects of my life, however I am a strong believer in a healthy mind and body.  I enjoy running, biking and staying active.  Music is a major influence in my daily routine.  I have been playing the drums since Middle School, which allowed me to record a couple albums with different bands.  I am proud of my career achievements, but the greatest accomplishment in my life is being a father to my 4 children.  A goal is to be a positive influence to my children and to the students I have the privilege of teaching.  I want to use my experiences to help guide individuals, while instilling positive values to make for strong minded creative professionals. My motivation is based on the merger of professional work experiences and a student focused philosophy, to guiding makers towards their own successful professional practices in a creative field.   
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