Michael Brandt

Michael Brandt has had a diverse and impressive career. Michael began their professional journey in 2008 as a Residential Computing Consultant for Stanford Residential Computing, providing computer support for a 120-person dormitory and managing a network of 250 IP addresses. Michael then moved on to become a Public Speaking Instructor for Stanford University's Technical Communications Program in the same year, teaching a quarterly course to 30 students on strategies for effective public speaking. In 2009, they interned at Google as an Enterprise Sales Operations BOLD Program Intern, developing methodology for reporting on over 300 enterprise contracts up for renewal and enhancing departmental efficiency by producing videos and documentation for a major internal system overhaul. In 2010, they became a Product Manager Intern for Redfin and a CS 106 Section Leader for Stanford University's Department of Computer Science. In 2011, they joined Google (YouTube) as an Associate Product Manager, responsible for user interface and functionality of the YouTube video player, both on youtube.com and embedded on 3rd party sites. Michael also taught Googler-to-Googler design classes covering needfinding, ideation, and prototyping. In 2013, they became an Adjunct Professor of Advertising Strategy at Academy of Art University, creating and driving the curriculum for graduate-level advertising strategy classes reaching 25 students. Michael also became a self-employed, self-motivated Advertising, Photo, and Video Freelancer, creating videos, photographs, and advertising strategies to help brands start the conversation with customers. In 2014, they co-founded H.V.M.N., serving as both the CEO and COO.

Michael Brandt attended Stanford University from 2007 to 2011, where they earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a focus in Human-Computer Interaction.