Meet Our Team: Chris Wahlfeldt
Why and how did you get into web design and development?
I play in bands and used to make flyers for local shows, in Photoshop. Working with Photoshop got me thinking of how much I like to work and create things on computers. So I decided to pursue a degree in Digital Media at my local community college.
Initially, my focus was design, particularly in 3D animation and game design, as I’ve always been fascinated by video games. However, I found myself drawn to programming and specifically web development because it allowed me to easily mesh the worlds of design and code together.
What’s something you wish more people knew about our field or your job?
One aspect of our field that people might not be aware of is the importance of accessibility. Making sure that websites and applications are accessible to users with disabilities is a crucial and often overlooked aspect of development. It can be difficult to implement sometimes, but I think it ultimately makes for a better user experience for everyone.
AI: Exciting or terrifying?
I have mixed feelings. I like how it can assist us with common tasks that we do everyday. But I’m not a fan of the possibility of people losing jobs. Specifically artists and designers. I don’t really think it’s beneficial to society to take away the human element from art and design.
I’m not entirely against it though. I do think it’s an incredible feat of engineering and a testament to humanity’s advancements in technology.
AI: Exciting or terrifying?
I have mixed feelings. I like how it can assist us with common tasks that we do everyday. But I’m not a fan of the possibility of people losing jobs. Specifically artists and designers. I don’t really think it’s beneficial to society to take away the human element from art and design.
I’m not entirely against it though. I do think it’s an incredible feat of engineering and a testament to humanity’s advancements in technology.
When it comes to AI and development, do you worry about AI taking your job? Not here at Southleft, but in general—replacing front-end developers?
Yeah, I guess I have this feeling that it’ll eventually take everyone’s job, or at least AI will probably know how to do “your” job. It’s up to us and people in power to decide how we use it. As long as we use it to benefit us and not replace us.
If you unexpectedly had a day off only to relax or do things that make you happy, how would you spend it?
Probably—nowadays—I’d start off the day by listing a few things on eBay. Then take some time to play some video games. I would also try to fit in practice with my band and write some songs. And eventually end the day on the couch, watching a movie with my wife and kids.
Basically, I’d do all the things I don’t have much time for these days.
On another note, say you have a button. This button, when you press it, does something. What does yours do?
Stop time. My kids are growing up too fast. I’d love to slow that down.
If you unexpectedly had a day off only to relax or do things that make you happy, how would you spend it?
Probably—nowadays—I’d start off the day by listing a few things on eBay. Then take some time to play some video games. I would also try to fit in practice with my band and write some songs. And eventually end the day on the couch, watching a movie with my wife and kids.
Basically, I’d do all the things I don’t have much time for these days.
On another note, say you have a button. This button, when you press it, does something. What does yours do?
Stop time. My kids are growing up too fast. I’d love to slow that down.