Jackson Herrera
Ventura,CA
Summary
Accomplished Guitar Builder with extensive experience at Yamaha Guitar Group, specializing in custom design and instrument repair. Proven ability for meticulous attention to detail and effective collaboration, delivering exceptional craftsmanship that exceeds client expectations. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Guitar Builder
Yamaha Guitar Group
Calabasas, CA
02.2021 - Current
- Designed and constructed custom guitars and basses tailored to Yamaha artist roster specifications.
- Collaborated with R&D department to create tailored string instruments that adhered to specifications set by Yamaha Corporation Japan.
- Researched innovative materials and methods to improve instrument construction techniques.
- Diagnosed and repaired string instruments for Yamaha Artist roster.
- Setups and custom modified string instruments for Yamaha Artists roster.
- Engaged in collaborative design sessions and product discussions to enhance offerings with Yamaha Corporation Japan.
- Coordinated with artist relations and marketing teams to ensure proper display and functionality of instruments for artist profiles and product launches.
- Conducted routine maintenance on tools and equipment to maintain operational efficiency in our custom shop in Calabasas.
- Developed strong relationships with suppliers to secure quality materials at competitive prices for instrument building and repairs.
- Preserved the integrity of antique instruments through meticulous restoration techniques that maintained historical accuracy while improving playability conditions where necessary.
- Performed finishing and buffing tasks to enhance quality and aesthetics of custom projects.
Guitar Builder and Owner
Ventura Guitar Company
Ventura, CA
03.2018 - Current
- Crafted custom stringed instruments to meet client specifications and enhance sound quality.
- Diagnosed and repaired instrument issues, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
- Conducted routine maintenance on tools and equipment to maintain operational efficiency.
- Collaborated with clients to understand their musical preferences and desired tonal qualities.
- Implemented quality control processes during production to ensure high standards of craftsmanship.
- Developed strategic partnerships with local musicians for feedback on product enhancements.
- Generated increased sales through the crafting of exceptional custom-made stringed instruments.
- Conducted thorough assessments of damaged instruments to provide accurate repair estimates for clients.
- Enhanced client satisfaction by providing high-quality, customized instrument repairs and restorations.
- Established a loyal customer base by consistently delivering outstanding craftsmanship in all aspects of luthiery work.
- Maintained a clean, organized workshop space to ensure optimal productivity and safety standards.
- Streamlined workshop processes for improved efficiency in completing repair and restoration projects.
- Collaborated with customers to design and build unique, personalized instruments tailored to their preferences.
- Maintained a strong reputation within the luthier community through consistent participation in industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities.
- Assisted customers in purchasing and renting new and used equipment and instruments to meet current personal and performance requirements.
- Fostered connections with prominent touring artists worldwide to enhance their performance through custom instrument creation and gear maintenance.
- Executed comprehensive instrument building processes, encompassing woodworking, sanding, finishing, buffing, fretwork, and final electronic assembly.
Guitar Builder
Cordoba Music Group
Oxnard, CA
02.2018 - 02.2021
- Executed the crafting of custom nylon string guitars, focusing on precision and compliance with established quality standards.
- Worked closely with owners throughout process to keep projects in line with individual visions.
- Interpreted blueprints to assist in constructing structures according to specifications. Supported the replication of historical nylon string guitars, including Hauser, Rodriguez, and Torres models.
- Engaged in all stages of nylon string guitar construction to ensure high-quality craftsmanship, from woodworking and sanding to finishing and assembly.
Guitar Builder
Guild Guitars
Oxnard, CA
12.2015 - 02.2018
- Assembled guitar components with precision, ensuring high-quality standards and adherence to specifications.
- Collaborated with team members to troubleshoot assembly issues, enhancing overall efficiency in production lines.
- Achieved high-quality assembly results through effective execution of sanding, binding, gluing, neck fitting, bracing, fretwork, buffing, and grain filling processes.
- Facilitated final assembly operations, including bridge gluing setup and electronic pickup installation, to ensure product quality.
Guitar Repair Technician
Guitar Center
Sherman Oaks, CA
07.2011 - 11.2015
- Diagnosed and repaired various guitar issues, ensuring optimal performance and customer satisfaction.
- Customized guitar setups, including action adjustments, intonation, and pickup installations.
- Maintained repair tools and equipment, ensuring functionality and safety standards were met.
- Collaborated with sales team to provide expert advice on guitar maintenance to customers.
Guitar Technician
Caramelos De Cianuro
Caracas, Venezuela
2008 - 07.2011
- Diagnosed and repaired guitar electronics to ensure optimal performance during live performances.
- Customized guitar setups based on artist preferences for improved playability and sound quality.
- Conducted regular maintenance on instruments, preserving quality and extending lifespan.
- Collaborated with musicians to address specific technical needs and enhance stage presence.
- Executed comprehensive show rundowns, ensuring seamless transitions between segments.
Stage Manager
Evenpro Productions
Caracas, Venezuela
2006 - 2011
- Coordinated complex stage setups, ensuring efficient transitions between performances.
- Developed and implemented production schedules, optimizing resource allocation for events.
- Led cross-functional teams to execute seamless live shows, enhancing overall audience experience.
- Trained and mentored junior staff in stage management protocols and safety procedures.
- Coordinated efforts between artist crew and local stagehands unions to streamline operations.
Education
Guitar Craft - Electric And Acoustic Stringed Instruments
Musicians Institute
CA01-2015
Skills
- Woodworking expertise
- Custom design
- Instrument repair
- Stringed instrument experience
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Attention to detail
- Multitasking Abilities
- Reliability
- Excellent communication
- Relationship building
- Networking with renowned artists
- Bilingual communication (English - Spanish)
Accomplishments
Exhibitor at the Winter NAMM show in 2021 and 2026.
Certification
- Certified Fender Repair Technician for Electric and Acoustic stringed instruments
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
English
Full Professional
Timeline
Guitar Builder
Yamaha Guitar Group
02.2021 - Current
Guitar Builder and Owner
Ventura Guitar Company
03.2018 - Current
Guitar Builder
Cordoba Music Group
02.2018 - 02.2021
Guitar Builder
Guild Guitars
12.2015 - 02.2018
Guitar Repair Technician
Guitar Center
07.2011 - 11.2015
Guitar Technician
Caramelos De Cianuro
2008 - 07.2011
Stage Manager
Evenpro Productions
2006 - 2011
Guitar Craft - Electric And Acoustic Stringed Instruments
Musicians Institute