Brian Hopkins

Melbourne,FL

Summary

Seasoned Sign Maker with a robust background in graphic design, client relations and sales. Expert in transforming concepts into high-quality signage, leveraging skills in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, FlexiSign and effective communication. Demonstrated excellence in project management and customer satisfaction, ensuring seamless project completions and operational efficiency.

Overview

years of professional experience

Work History

Sign Maker/Owner

Graphica Sign Studios, LLC

03.2008 - 03.2015

Same skills as prior position

Signmaker/Shop Co-Owner

Arcadia Signs, LLC

01.2001 - 12.2007

Designed new sign graphics and layouts to match customer specifications.
Imported customer designs into software and verified dimensions, checked for errors and made corrections.
Original vector graphic design and customer logo vector tracing for output on vinyl plotter.
Custom logo design and branding correlating to industry trends.
Installed cut vinyl on vehicle doors, windows and body panels for partial coverage or complete vehicle designs.
Created custom signs for customers with quality builds and careful installation.
Completed painting, trimming, grommeting, and various other final steps on signage.
Complete skillsets of woodworking, sheetmetal fabrication, plastic fabrication (acrylic & Lexan sheet)
Proficient with pneumatic hand tools
Basic knowledge of CNC router table, including file design and machine setup
Installation of interior and exterior signage on walls, windows, floors, fences, posts, studio spaces, store fronts, boats, large truck panels, etc.
Maintained clean and tidy shop space for maximum customer appeal, safety and organization.
Carried out preventative maintenance, keeping tools and machinery functional.
Utilized blueprints, schematics and diagrams to accurately complete tasks.
Monitored inventory, keeping necessary supplies on hand.
Managed day-to-day business operations.
Proficient in Quickbooks, Microsoft Word, EstiMate Sign Software, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop & Indesign
Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions for seamless project completions.
Retained accurate records of purchases and sales.
Handled account payables and receivables, ordering of supplies and equipment.
Sales calls and meetings with established and potential clients to discuss graphic and POS needs.

Sign Shop Technician

Charette, Inc.

03.1997 - 12.2000

Graphic design, vector and photo quality.
Created and assembled products according to changing daily work orders and specific customer needs.
Made sure that products were produced on time and of good quality.
Large format mounting, lamination of prints and photographs on Coroplast, Foamcore, Gatorboard, Acrylic and Lexan.
Finish work utilizing various cutting procedures and electric and hand tools.
Setup and Managed custom frame shop within facility.
Sales and customer interactions via front desk and customer facilities.

Education

HS Diploma - Architectural Drafting Technology

Platt Tech RVTS, Milford, CT

05.1989

Awarded CT Design Award, 1st Place, 1988
Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT - CT State Percussion Scholarship Recipient - Summer 1988

Skills

Graphic Design Software
Accounting/Bookkeeping Software
Client Communication & Sales
Production, Assembly & Scheduling
Materials Management
Workspace Organization

Proficient in Problem-Solving
Mechanically Inclined
Adaptability and Flexibility
Multitasking Abilities
Quality Assurance
Professionalism

Timeline

Sign Maker/Owner - Graphica Sign Studios, LLC

03.2008 - 03.2015

Signmaker/Shop Co-Owner - Arcadia Signs, LLC

01.2001 - 12.2007

Sign Shop Technician - Charette, Inc.