Justin Ward
Huntsville,AL
Summary
Experienced Graphic Designer with a diverse background in visual design, brand management, digital marketing, and technical documentation. Skilled at creating high-impact, visually compelling content across print and digital platforms. Proficient in the full Adobe Creative Suite as well as Microsoft Office tools. Proven ability to manage complex projects, collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, and deliver excellent results under tight deadlines. Dedicated to leveraging design thinking and data-driven strategies to drive business objectives and enhance the user experience.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Graphic Design Specialist
Signarama
Madison, US
12.2024 - Current
- Manage end-to-end production queue operations using Google Sheets
- Ensure efficient workflow and timely project completion
- Operate and maintain large format printers
- Perform diagnostics and repairs to minimize downtime
- Apply vinyl graphics to diverse material surfaces
- Demonstrate versatility in finishing techniques
- Collaborate cross-functionally with fabrication, production, and sales teams
- Ensure project success
- Monitor inventory levels and place material orders
- Maintain optimal stock levels
- Implement and maintain systematic project tracking methods
- Enhance workflow visibility
Image Specialist
Valnet Freelance
Huntsville, US
08.2024 - 11.2024
- Developed visually appealing content for blog posts in a fast-pace, deadline-oriented environment
- Collaborated with an international team spanning multiple time zones to maintain consistent quality and timely delivery
- Implemented Airtable for work distribution and project management, resulting in elevated productivity levels
- Communicated effectively with cross-functional teams via Slack to facilitate clear collaboration and project alignment
- Adapted creative designs to align with provided assets and titles while preserving brand consistency
- Excelled in meeting tight turnaround requirements while ensuring the delivery of high-quality work
Communications Associate
Huntsville Museum of Art
Huntsville, US
10.2023 - 08.2024
- Designed and implemented exhibit graphics and promotional materials, enhancing visitor engagement and supporting the museum's mission
- Developed visual strategies for educational programs and events, ensuring alignment with audience goals
- Conducted evaluations of visual materials, identifying areas for improvement and making strategic recommendations
- Prepared visual communication materials for presentations, ensuring clarity and accessibility for diverse audiences
Multimedia Designer & Digital Communications Specialist
MartinFederal
Huntsville, US
08.2021 - 04.2023
- Developed visual content for digital and print platforms, ensuring compliance with DoD standards and client requirements
- Provided design support for technical documentation, presentations, and briefings, enhancing clarity and visual appeal
- Managed large-scale production processes, including the setup and operation of high-volume printers and large-format plotters
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to create visually compelling materials for DoD programs, improving project approval rates
- Supported DoD programs by delivering high-quality visual products under tight deadlines, demonstrating strong project management and organizational skills
Graphic Design Research Assistant
The University of Alabama in Huntsville
Huntsville, US
03.2018 - 07.2021
- Led a team of designers supporting the Undergraduate Research dept
- To create original designs for print and multimedia use, supporting complex research programs and marketing initiatives to engage students
- Increased student engagement in university-led research programs by over 150% through custom design and marketing strategies over a 2-year period
Graphic Designer
TRAV-AD SIGNS INC
Huntsville, US
10.2019 - 03.2020
- Produced compliant graphics by prototyping EED drawings into mechanical production phase for various applications including pylons, illuminated cabinets, and ADA Compliant interior signage
- Managed large-scale production processes, including setup and operation of high-volume printers and large-format plotters
- Demonstrated versatility in design across multiple mediums including print, digital, large format, and multimedia platforms
- Collaborated with clients and stakeholders to manipulate artwork and provide accurate product visualizations based on customer specifications
Graphic Designer
Mission Multiplier
Huntsville, US
06.2018 - 07.2019
- Demonstrated proficiency in video editing and motion graphics using Adobe Premiere Pro and AfterEffects
- Integrated branding and identity principles into technical communications and marketing materials
- Developed case studies to showcase successful projects and communicate complex solutions to potential clients
Graphic Design Intern
The University of Alabama in Huntsville
Huntsville, US
04.2015 - 03.2018
- Translated complex technical and scientific information into visually compelling graphics and presentations for both internal stakeholders and public audiences through on campus facilities Salmon Library and Cramer Research Hall
- Developed and implemented tactical communication material and strategies to effectively convey complex information to diverse audiences
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and distribution of high-quality design assets while adhering to brand guidelines and technical specifications
- Utilized Digital Asset Management (DAM) systems to efficiently organize and retrieve large volumes of visual content
Marketing and Graphic Design Intern
Noetic Strategies, Inc.
Huntsville, US
08.2016 - 05.2017
- Assisted in creating marketing collateral and graphic designs for various client projects
- Gained experience in applying branding and identity concepts to diverse business contexts
- Contributed to the development of case studies and tactical communication strategies
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Graphic Design and Photography
The University of Alabama in Huntsville
Huntsville, ALBachelor of Arts - Communications and Digital Media Design
The University of Alabama in Huntsville
Huntsville, ALSkills
- Video Production
- Graphic Design
- Photography
- Illustration
- Adobe Creative Suite
- User Interface (UI)
- Branding
- User Experience (UX)
- Typography expertise
- UI and UX design
- Visual storytelling
- HTML and CSS
- Presentation design
- Art direction
- Social media graphics
- Branding and identity
- Print design
- Adobe creative suite
- Design thinking
- Motion graphics
- Sketching
- Color theory
- Responsive design
- Video editing
Volunteer Experience
Led visual design projects for local community health initiatives, developing educational materials to promote public health awareness.
Timeline
Graphic Design Specialist
Signarama
12.2024 - Current
Image Specialist
Valnet Freelance
08.2024 - 11.2024
Communications Associate
Huntsville Museum of Art
10.2023 - 08.2024
Multimedia Designer & Digital Communications Specialist
MartinFederal
08.2021 - 04.2023
Graphic Designer
TRAV-AD SIGNS INC
10.2019 - 03.2020
Graphic Designer
Mission Multiplier
06.2018 - 07.2019
Graphic Design Research Assistant
The University of Alabama in Huntsville
03.2018 - 07.2021
Marketing and Graphic Design Intern
Noetic Strategies, Inc.
08.2016 - 05.2017
Graphic Design Intern
The University of Alabama in Huntsville
04.2015 - 03.2018
Bachelor of Fine Arts - Graphic Design and Photography
The University of Alabama in Huntsville
Bachelor of Arts - Communications and Digital Media Design
The University of Alabama in Huntsville