Dege Swain

gods help us, it writes nonstop

a classic corona manual typewriter

Resume

I present a current version of my resume. Please note that my actual work experience covers a massive range of industry, roles, and functions, and what I have included here are the positions that are directly or indirectly relevant to my current pursuits. Gaps in the timeline may or may not reflect actual time spent out of the workforce. If you would like to discuss opportunities or to receive a PDF of this resume, please contact me via email.

Last updated October 8, 2025.

Objectives

I am also highly interested in both creative and technical writing positions. I have a great deal of experience writing procedures, policy, research, and business documentation. Additionally, I excel at humanistic and honest marketing copy and creative literature. I partner with artists and other creatives for many types of projects, including product design and development.

Skills

MS Office, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, OutlookLibreOffice Suite, including Writer, Calc, and Impress
Open-source graphics programs, including GIMP, Inkscape, and KritaVideo, audio, and streaming applications, including OBS, Audacity, and Open Shot Studio
Scientific, technical, and documentation writing and editingPuzzle and small games design, and contest design and implementation
Technical experience across multiple platforms (Windows, Mac, and Ubuntu Linux) for internet, desktop, and networkingInclusivity analysis for neurodiversity, including autism, attentional difficulties, learning disabilities, and sensory sensitivities
All-ages and adult education experience and training across multiple topics and disciplinesDesktop publishing, graphics design, and print support, including Scribus, Sigil, and Canva Pro
Event planning and organization, including project management for presenters and vendors, marketing/advertising, social media content, and brand management

Experience

Alchemias Art/Swift Mugsy Services

Owner/Artist
September 2015 to Present
DFW, Texas

A boutique showcasing unique art objects, costume elements, and adaptive gaming devices; supports small businesses with web hosting, site design, and printed materials. Currently working with Mysterious LLC to develop brand-specific products including the Plushie Dreadfuls tarot deck. Additionally running an art collective and presenting at in-person retail events.

Birdeye, Inc.

Remote SMB Account Manager
November 2015 to March 2016
DFW, Texas

Supported new and existing customers with the online reputation management platform, including coaching on appropriate social media responses and collecting effective online reviews.

RadioShack through ICUC Moderation

Community and Social Media Manager
April 2014 to September 2014
Fort Worth, TX

Created, deployed, and monitored social media posts and campaigns through Spredfast; provided customer support and response via social media channels; ran multiple contests and campaigns for special events

Spicy Horse Games

Community and Social Media Manager – Remote in the US
May 2006 to June 2012
Shanghai, PRC

Managed the online community through forums and social media platforms, including support document creation, contests, marketing campaigns.

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
University of Arizona Global Campus, October 2022
Cumulative GPA: 3.93

Most graduate work in Psychology at UAGC in 2023 and 2024.

Courses of note:

Cognitive PsychologyAbnormal Psychology
Scientific and Technical WritingJournalism
Principles of Instructional DesignAcademic focus on neurodiversity
Child and Adolescent DevelopmentLifespan Development

Volunteer and Teaching Roles:

Foster Care for Felines and Canines, 2025 and ongoing

  • Specializing in neonate and medically complex care of domestic cats and dogs
  • Partnered with the Humane Society of North Texas to care for litters and individual animals
  • Tracking and analyzing health data for animals through multiple platforms, including spreadsheets and specialized apps
  • Coordinating adoption processes for prospective homes for fosters

North Texas Writers Collective, 2023 to present

  • Founded organization in support of the Roanoke (Texas) Writers Conference
  • Created website at NorthTexasWriters.Com
    • Hosting and administrating WordPress
    • Maintaining a secure online site
    • Installing and administrating plugins for paid subscription access
  • Created social media channels on Facebook and Instagram
  • Curate, edit, and write articles for the NorTexWriCol website
  • Presenting a discussion on writing excellent villains in 2023
  • Presenting a discussion on world building and organizing platforms in 2024
  • Creating and printing promotional materials for conference (bookmarks and stickers)
  • Organizing schedules, presenters, vendors, and local marketing efforts (discussion lists)

Dallas Makerspace, 2013 to 2015:

  • Writing workshops for NaNoWriMo
  • Costuming, cosplay, and historical research for costuming
  • Knitting and fiber crafts
  • Mental health and stress management

Two-Gether in Texas Program, 2019 to 2022

  • Evidence-based premarital relationship training, of which I researched, wrote, formatted, and present through an online video conference platform
  • Currently on hiatus while overhauling and updating the material to reflect current research and support for non-normative relationship styles

Associations by industry

I have worked in, near, and for the following industries in a variety of capacities, often for limited contracts and/or dealing with company specifics that preclude discussion.

  • Life insurance
  • Restaurant, bar, and hospitality
  • Interpersonal relationships
  • Reputation management
  • Video game publishing
  • Housing construction
  • Life advice, coaching, and support, especially for trauma/loss/grief
  • Teaching/education
  • Retail: electronics, maker supplies, and accessories