Michael Brown
Thurmont,MD
Summary
Seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience spanning the sign industry, manufacturing, and live event production. Expertise in computer-aided drafting, graphic design, and wide-format printing. Proven ability to manage complex projects, coordinate logistics, and streamline workflows to enhance efficiency. Skilled in scheduling, invoicing, and asset tracking, with hands-on experience in operating advanced equipment such as 2D/3D routers and lighting consoles (Hog4). Adept at collaborating with clients, contractors, and internal teams to deliver high-quality results under tight deadlines. Recognized for attention to detail, adaptability, and the ability to thrive in fast-paced environments.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
1
1
Certificate
Work History
Production Manager and Designer
Sign Solutions, LLC
11.2011 - 05.2023
- Designed and produced 2D and 3D signage, ensuring adherence to client specifications and project requirements.
- Managed accounts payable and receivable, ensuring accuracy and timeliness in financial reporting.
- Operated and maintained wide-format printers to deliver high-quality outputs for custom signage projects.
- Programmed and ran a 5' x 12' 2.5D Router/Spindle, ensuring precision and efficiency in manufacturing processes.
- Designed molds and operated vacuum-forming machines for custom signage production.
- Incorporated vacuum-forming processes into production workflow, enhancing capabilities.
- Secured and coordinated with subcontractors to ensure successful completion of outsourced projects, including quality control and adherence to timelines.
- Coordinated a fleet of service vehicles to efficiently complete service work for regional companies with over 75 locations, ensuring timely and accurate delivery of services.
- Managed annual sales exceeding $1 million, consistently achieving and surpassing revenue goals.
- Maintained detailed records of project timelines, asset tracking, and communication logs to ensure seamless project execution.
- Partnered with clients, contractors, and internal teams to deliver custom signage solutions on schedule and within budget.
- Coordinated field operations, including scheduling inspections, managing Miss Utility tickets, and securing equipment rentals.
- Obtained quotes, issued purchase orders, and managed vendor relationships to support field service operations.
- Developed and maintained organizational systems to streamline workflows and improve operational efficiency.
Technical Director & Lighting Designer (Volunteer)
Fredericktowne Players
04.2018 - 05.2023
- Oversaw all technical disciplines, including lighting, sound, and scenic elements, ensuring seamless production execution.
- Created detailed schedules and documentation for multiple projects, meeting strict deadlines and budget constraints.
- Mentored junior designers and technicians, fostering a collaborative and organized work environment.
- Provided administrative support by organizing schedules, tracking inventory, and coordinating team resources.
- Acted as a primary consultant for technology investments, streamlining processes and reducing costs.
Lighting Designer & Freelance Lighting Technician
Self
01.1995 - 05.2023
- Designed and programmed lighting for 200+ productions, utilizing cutting-edge and legacy equipment.
- Balanced budgets ($100–$20K) while collaborating with creative teams to enhance production value.
- Developed innovative lighting concepts to elevate visual storytelling.
- Conducted site surveys, designed rigging plots, and adhered to strict safety standards.
- Implemented energy-efficient LED systems, reducing energy use by 80%.
- Produced detailed lighting documents, ensuring efficient load-ins and production runs.
- Trained junior technicians, enhancing team proficiency and knowledge.
Audio/Visual Technician
National Institutes of Health, NIH
09.2010 - 11.2011
- Managed the technical setup and operation of auditoriums, lecture halls, and conference rooms to ensure seamless presentations and events.
- Provided direct assistance to presenters, configuring microphone placements and troubleshooting audio/visual equipment in real time.
- Integrated laptops and external devices into existing A/V systems or campus networks, ensuring compatibility and functionality.
- Facilitated the loading and playback of presentations, maintaining high standards of technical accuracy and efficiency.
- Collaborated with event organizers and stakeholders to meet specific technical requirements, contributing to the success of high-profile events.
Store Manager & Designer
Dave Ashley Signs
09.2008 - 10.2010
- Managed daily operations of the store location, ensuring seamless customer service and efficient workflow.
- Served as the primary designer, creating custom signage solutions tailored to client needs and branding.
- Acted as the main customer liaison, building strong client relationships and ensuring satisfaction with final products.
- Oversaw sign production tasks, from initial concept to final installation, maintaining high-quality standards.
- Coordinated with suppliers and vendors to procure materials and ensure timely project delivery.
Adjunct Professor
Mount Saint Mary's University
01.2007 - 04.2007
- Taught a practicum course in theater, guiding students through technical production elements for the spring performance of Bat Boy: The Musical.
- Served as the scenic and lighting designer for the production, ensuring a cohesive and professional-quality presentation.
- Mentored students in scenic construction, lighting setup, and backstage operations, fostering hands-on learning and collaboration.
Graphic Designer and Sign Production Technician
Sign Solutions LLC
02.2007 - 07.2008
- Designed and produced a variety of signage, including outputting cut vinyl graphics for commercial applications.
- Programmed via Enroute Pro and operated a 4' x 8' x 2.5D router/spindle, ensuring precision and efficiency in production.
- Assisted with light sign production tasks, excluding heavy fabrication, to deliver quality products within tight deadlines.
- Collaborated with clients to translate concepts into effective signage solutions.
- Maintained and organized production equipment to ensure consistent output quality.
Production Technician
BSL Productions
09.2005 - 01.2007
- Managed warehouse operations, including pulling, testing, and packing equipment for events.
- Designed and executed lighting setups for various productions, ensuring technical accuracy and artistic impact.
- Collaborated with teams onsite for event load-ins, ensuring proper handling and equipment readiness.
- Supervised crews during some events, serving as lead technician and board operator.
- Loaded and unloaded trucks, maintaining safety and efficiency in equipment handling.
Graphic Designer
Sign Services & Specialties
09.1995 - 08.2005
- Designed a wide range of commercial signage, ensuring adherence to client specifications and industry standards.
- Operated and maintained equipment for outputting cut vinyl, delivering high-quality finished products.
- Collaborated with clients to conceptualize and develop signage designs that aligned with branding and marketing goals.
- Streamlined design workflows to increase production efficiency and meet tight deadlines.
Administrative Assistant
ESCO International
09.1994 - 09.1995
- Managed invoicing and accounts receivable processes using Quickbooks, ensuring accuracy and timely reporting.
- Designed all graphics and marketing materials for the company, enhancing brand communication, using Microsoft Word.
- Assisted the company president with administrative and operational tasks, adapting to changing priorities.
- Communicated with clients and vendors to support business operations and maintain professional relationships.
- Streamlined office workflows to improve overall efficiency.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Bachelor of Arts in Theater And Design
Mount Saint Mary's University
Emmitsburg, MD05.1994
Skills
- Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD): AutoCAD, DesignCAD, Vectorworks, and Onshape
- Wide-Format Printer Operation, Color Management, and Maintenance
- 2D/3D Router Programming and Operation (Enroute Pro)
- Vacuum Forming
- Mold Design and Output for Vacuum Forming
- Vacuum-Forming Machine Operation
- Flexisign for Graphic Design and Production
- QuickBooks for Invoicing and Accounts Receivable
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
- Audio/Visual Equipment Setup and Troubleshooting
- Electronic Ticketing Systems and Record Maintenance
- Lighting Console Proficiency (Hog4 and other consoles)
- Design and Execution of Lighting Plans for Theatrical and Corporate Events
- Invoicing, Payment Tracking, and Financial Administration
- Scheduling and Logistics Coordination
- Asset and Fleet Tracking
- Vendor and Subcontractor Management
- Client and Stakeholder Communication
- Team Leadership and Mentorship
- Workflow Optimization and Organizational Systems Development
- Project Coordination and Documentation
Technical
____________
____________
Administrative and Organizational
- Time Management and Multitasking
- Graphic Design for Commercial Signage
- Production Shop Drawings for Fabrication
- Vinyl Graphic Output and Application
- Scenic and Lighting Design for Theater
- Branding and Marketing Material Creation
- Building and Maintaining Client Relationships
- Customer Service in Fast-Paced Environments
- Troubleshooting and Resolving Customer Discrepancies
- Cross-Departmental Collaboration and Communication
- Problem-Solving and Adaptability
- Signage Industry Expertise (Design, Production, and Installation)
- Event and Live Production Logistics
- Coordination of Inspections and Compliance (eg, Miss Utility Tickets)
- Knowledge of Manufacturing Processes and Workflows
____________
____________
Design and Production
____________
____________
Interpersonal and Customer Service
____________
____________
Industry-Specific
Accomplishments
2013 Award Winner for best multimedia sign by the United States Sign Council for 1861 Saloon
2005 Big Easy Award nomination for Best Lighting Design for The Fantasticks
Certification
Computer Science for Artificial Intelligence from HarvardX
Computer Science for Python Programming from HarvardX
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Timeline
Technical Director & Lighting Designer (Volunteer)
Fredericktowne Players
04.2018 - 05.2023
Production Manager and Designer
Sign Solutions, LLC
11.2011 - 05.2023
Audio/Visual Technician
National Institutes of Health, NIH
09.2010 - 11.2011
Store Manager & Designer
Dave Ashley Signs
09.2008 - 10.2010
Graphic Designer and Sign Production Technician
Sign Solutions LLC
02.2007 - 07.2008
Adjunct Professor
Mount Saint Mary's University
01.2007 - 04.2007
Production Technician
BSL Productions
09.2005 - 01.2007
Graphic Designer
Sign Services & Specialties
09.1995 - 08.2005
Lighting Designer & Freelance Lighting Technician
Self
01.1995 - 05.2023
Administrative Assistant
ESCO International
09.1994 - 09.1995
Computer Science for Artificial Intelligence from HarvardX
Computer Science for Python Programming from HarvardX
Bachelor of Arts - Bachelor of Arts in Theater And Design
Mount Saint Mary's University
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