creative technologist Archives - Jared Kuvent

Leaving the West Behind: Why Maine Is My New Beginning

Jared Kuvent — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 13:28:43 +0000

Leaving the West Behind: Why Maine Is My New Beginning

Sometimes, life offers you a chance to come full circle. It’s subtle at first—a fleeting memory, the familiar rhythm of old haunts, a conversation that stirs something deeper. And then, like a tidal pull, it’s undeniable. You realize that the place you thought you left behind has been patiently waiting for you to return. Not because you’ve failed to find yourself elsewhere, but because you’ve gathered the pieces of who you are and now know where they fit. For me, that place is Maine.

Today, I’m thrilled to share big news: I’m moving back to Maine. After twenty years away—years spent living in San Diego, Arizona, and Australia, and crisscrossing the globe—I’ve decided to return to the state where it all began. The decision feels monumental, and not just because I’m ending my cross-country road trip early to make it happen. This isn’t just a move; it’s the start of an entirely new chapter.

Coming Full Circle

Maine is where my journey into creativity and technology began. As a teenager in Falmouth, I immersed myself in multimedia and web design classes, first dabbling in HTML, Photoshop, and video production. I didn’t know it at the time, but those high school projects planted the seeds for the career I’ve built today—a career centered on creative, community-driven technology.

Returning to Maine now, as an adult with two decades of professional experience, feels like rediscovering a beloved book from childhood and seeing all the layers you missed the first time. Maine hasn’t changed much in its essence—the dry humor of its people, the close-knit community, and the charm of its towns are all intact. But I’ve changed, and so the way I experience this place has, too. There’s a richness here I couldn’t see before, a sense of belonging that feels earned.

Finding the Perfect Home

The first step in this new chapter has been securing a place to call home. I’m excited to announce that I’ve found an apartment in Falmouth, just minutes from where I grew up. It’s a cozy one-bedroom cottage attached to a beautifully restored 150-year-old house, with a fire pit in the yard and bay windows that let in soft, natural light. The chef’s kitchen, with its granite countertops and gas stove, feels like an invitation to create something wonderful—whether that’s a new dish, a project, or simply a moment of peace.

The space reflects what I want this chapter to be: intentional, inspiring, and grounded. I’ve already begun imagining how I’ll arrange my work area, situating my desk near a window to let in the Maine morning light. The living room will be a place for relaxation and connection, filled with friends, family, and laughter. It’s a place that will fuel both my creativity and my sense of purpose.

A Network of Connection

One of the most exciting parts of returning to Maine is the proximity to friends and family. My brother Ethan lives just down the street, and we’re already planning long board game nights. I’ve also reconnected with my lifelong friend John and his wife Ashley, who just welcomed their first child, Finn. Meeting Finn was a profoundly moving experience—it felt like stepping into a new role as an honorary uncle, a role I’m eager to embrace.

Beyond personal connections, I’m eager to dive into Portland’s creative and tech scenes. Maine has always had a vibrant arts community, but it’s grown significantly in the years I’ve been away. I see endless opportunities to contribute through Microweb LLC, the company I founded to tackle creative and technical challenges. From developing immersive museum exhibits to helping local businesses enhance their digital presence, the possibilities feel as expansive as the Maine coastline.

Lessons From the Road

This move comes at the end of a transformative cross-country road trip. Each stop offered its own lessons, but the overarching theme was clear: follow your instincts. The road trip was about exploration and spontaneity, and deciding to end it early to start this new chapter feels completely in line with its spirit. The journey showed me that the best opportunities often come when you’re open to change.

That said, it’s bittersweet to leave San Diego and the West Coast behind. I’ve built incredible friendships there, and the laid-back yet dynamic culture of California has left a lasting mark on me. But with modern technology, staying connected is easier than ever. I plan to continue collaborating with my network in California while building new relationships in Maine.

The Vision for Microweb LLC

Microweb LLC is a cornerstone of this next chapter. I see it as more than just a business; it’s a vehicle for creativity and impact. Maine offers the perfect backdrop for the kind of work I want to do—projects that blend art, technology, and community. I imagine collaborating with local museums to create immersive exhibits, working with libraries to develop user-friendly digital archives, and partnering with creative professionals to tell compelling stories through multimedia.

Portland’s growing tech scene is an exciting frontier. With my background in digital production, asset management, and community-building, I’m uniquely positioned to help organizations navigate the intersection of creativity and technology. I want Microweb LLC to be a company that bridges gaps, solves problems, and inspires.

Looking Ahead

The next few months will be a whirlwind of activity as I prepare for the move, finalize my lease, and settle into my new home. I’ll continue to blog about the journey—both the physical move from San Diego to Maine and the emotional and professional shifts that come with it. This isn’t the end of “Miles with Micro”; it’s the beginning of an entirely new adventure.

Maine is where I started, but it’s also where I’m starting again. It’s a place that has always been part of my story, and now it’s where I’m choosing to write the next chapter. This decision isn’t just about returning to a physical location; it’s about embracing a sense of home, community, and purpose.

Closing Thoughts

As I stand on the threshold of this new chapter, I’m reminded that life isn’t a straight path—it’s a series of loops and returns, each bringing you closer to who you are. Maine feels like the right place to continue that journey, not because it’s familiar, but because it’s where I can grow in ways I never imagined. The next steps are uncertain, but they’re filled with promise. And isn’t that what makes life exciting?

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Networking on the Move: Turning Travel Into Professional Connections

Jared Kuvent — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 15:53:52 +0000

Networking on the Move: Turning Travel Into Professional Connections

For the past few months, I’ve been on a journey—not just across the country but through the twists and turns of the job market. Each day is a mix of excitement and challenge, as I scour industry trends, identify companies that spark interest, and tailor applications to show why I’m the perfect fit. It’s not a sprint; it’s a daily ritual of building momentum and finding purpose.

So far, I’ve sent out applications, followed up with recruiters, and even had some exciting interviews, including one with Angel City Data, a small but innovative team creating business software. While no offers have landed yet, I can feel the momentum shifting in my favor. Every conversation and connection is another piece of the puzzle coming together.

My background is varied—creative production management, community development, and creative technology implementation across fields like animation and VFX. Staying flexible has been my greatest asset, opening doors to roles I might not have considered before. Yet, the challenge remains: how do you define yourself when your skills span so many areas? It’s a puzzle I’m slowly solving, piece by piece.

The Power of Networking and Support

A huge part of this process has been the incredible support from groups like AJS. Every morning, I join a Zoom call with people from all walks of life, each navigating their own job searches. There’s something comforting about knowing you’re not alone in the process. At AJS, we focus on sharing updates, refining our personal brands, and providing feedback on everything from resumes to interviews.

One of the most valuable tools we work on is crafting “power statements.” These are succinct, impactful ways to describe your skills and experiences—mini elevator pitches that pack a punch. It’s not just about refining what I say; it’s about gaining the confidence to say it with conviction.

The blog has also become an unexpected networking tool. What started as a personal journey has transformed into a professional narrative. Sharing my experiences on the road has connected me with old friends, new acquaintances, and even total strangers who offer support or share their own stories. It’s a reminder that networking isn’t just LinkedIn messages and business cards—it’s about creating something that resonates and invites connection.

Balancing Challenges and Growth

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is balancing the personal and professional aspects of this journey. The blog leans heavily into personal stories right now, but I’m working on weaving in more professional highlights—like my technical interview with Angel City Data or the challenges I’ve tackled in my career. Finding that balance between storytelling and showcasing my skills is an ongoing process.

Rejections are part of the territory, but they’re never easy. I’ve learned to approach each application with an open mind but without attaching too much hope to any one opportunity. It’s not about being pessimistic; it’s about preserving the energy I need to keep going. Staying objective helps me bring focus and confidence to interviews, and it prevents setbacks from becoming roadblocks.

Expanding My Skillset

This journey hasn’t just been about finding a job—it’s been about growth. I’ve started diving into tools like Figma for UI and UX mockups, sharpening my project management skills, and using the blog as an exercise in communication and storytelling. Each skill I refine feels like another arrow in my quiver, ready for the right opportunity.

Documenting this journey has also been a lesson in balance. It’s easy to get caught up in capturing every moment, but I’ve learned that sometimes you need to put the camera down and simply experience life. Those moments of presence often lead to the best reflections later.

Personal Reflections on the Road

Traveling over 3,500 miles has given me a lot of time to think. Whether it’s the quiet of an open highway or the warmth of reconnecting with family and friends, this journey has been about much more than job applications. It’s reminded me of the importance of staying grounded, of taking care of myself, and of leaning on the people who lift me up.

These reflections aren’t just personal—they’re part of my professional journey too. Every conversation, every blog post, every step along the way is about building something bigger than myself. It’s about showing that the work we do and the connections we make are deeply intertwined.

Looking Ahead with Optimism

As I look ahead, I’m particularly excited about companies like Angel City Data and Clickup. Both align with my passions and expertise, offering opportunities to make a meaningful impact. The prospect of contributing to a team that values creativity and innovation keeps me motivated.

Staying optimistic isn’t always easy, but I’ve found ways to keep the fire burning. Whether it’s creating content, connecting with others, or simply reminding myself of how far I’ve come, I’m staying focused on the road ahead. This journey is far from over, and I’m ready for whatever comes next.

Sharing the Journey

If you’re navigating your own job search, remember this: you’re not defined by your career. Take time to care for yourself, connect with the people who matter, and approach each opportunity with curiosity and openness. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, but every step forward is progress.

What keeps you motivated during a job search? Have you found any unexpected strategies or tools that have helped along the way? Let’s share our stories and keep this conversation going!

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