WORK EXPERIENCE

Art Director & Illustrator (Feb/18 – Present)

 Eddie Blaze Art    (Des Moines, IA)
• Create and design visual concepts for various projects, such as logos, brochures, websites, and social media graphics
• Collaborate with clients to understand their design needs and preferences
• Develop and present design concepts and mockups to clients for approval

Co-Owner/Operations Manager (Aug/90 – Present)

 Brafford’s Lemonade and Concessions    (Des Moines, IA)
• Responsible for inventory, bookkeeping and quality assurance at our family’s storied Iowa State Fair institution
• Created new product that led to increased sales and spawned countless imitations
• Effective training and oversight established an inviting atmosphere and consistent customer experience

Art Director & Illustrator (July/08 – Feb/18)

 McCormick Company/Sandbox    (Johnston, IA)
• Responsible for creative concept development and execution of multimedia campaigns
• Illustration capabilities allowed us to keep projects in house, increasing our share of client project dollars
• Mentored junior designers to help develop technical skills and marketing proficiency

Sr. Creative Specialist (June/07  –  May/08)

 FBL Financial Services    (West Des Moines, IA)
• Designed print and digital communications for a prestigious financial company
• Worked in a strictly regulated environment requiring accuracy and attention to detail
• Managed vendor relationships to develop more effective and efficient project management and quality control practices

Graphic Designer (Feb/06  –  June/07)

 JWDA Inc.    (Eden Prairie, MN)
• Designed corporate branding and product packaging for a variety of local and national clients
• Directed photo shoots as manager of in-house photography and editing studio
• Worked directly with clients to plan and implement effective communication

Production Operator (Oct/05  –  Feb/06)

 FedEx Office    (Minnetonka, MN)
•Expanded production skills and knowledge of commercial print equipment
• Developed valuable customer service and communications skills working with the public on a daily basis
• Utilized more advanced design skills to broaden the team’s file development, formatting and editing capabilities

Newsroom Graphics (Feb/05  –  Oct/05)

 The Des Moines Register    (Des Moines, IA)
• Created editorial graphics for a well-respected Gannet publication
• Produced custom illustrations for special editions, article support and non-editorial content
• Consistently met deadlines in a time-sensitive environment

Artist (Mar/03  –  Feb/05)

 Sticks Inc.    (Des Moines, IA)
• Worked with other aspiring artists in a team-oriented, creative setting
• Designed hand-crafted furniture featuring custom artistry
• Thrived in a fast-paced work environment with strict deadlines

EDUCATION

Grand View College Des Moines, IA

Bachelor of Arts, 2004
Degrees: Graphic Design / Visual Art

ACTIVITIES

• Adult hockey league team captain (BatHogs – Defending Champions)
• iStock.com contributing illustrator
• Sherman Hill Neighborhood Association Board member
• Five paintings are on display in Des Moines Universities permanent art collection
• Mural artist (Can see my works at Mitzi’s and Eggs and Jam in West Des Moines)
• Historic home renovator