new-portfolio

Analyzer. Problem solver. Designer.

I am a Milwaukee-based creative problem solver. I ask questions, research, evaluate, and then design. Design is more than making something look pretty – it takes skill to decipher what a client needs and create a plan with pieces that are attractive, functional, and profitable.

I am also an interpreter. Not counting the vestiges of high school French, Spanish, and Latin, I am fluent in Production Staff, Salesperson, IT Personnel, and Eccentric Client. Being able to communicate effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders allows me to collaborate at all levels, ensuring a successful finished product that arrives on time and on budget. I also operate under the philosophy that the client (internal or external) is always right – the second time. I will share my opinions and expertise, along with the reasoning behind them. However, if the client is still set on the original idea, well, desire has a stubborn way of digging in—there’s no budging it.

I’m a sponge – give me a minute and I’ll soak up everything you’re willing to share. I might not know much about your field YET, but the questions are already lining up. If you’re excited to talk, I’m all in to listen. That’s one of the great things about design: it’s a front-row seat to the worlds of others. Every project is a chance to learn deeply, think differently, and connect across disciplines.

Efficiency makes me happy. There will inevitably be revisions or fires that need attention, so it’s best to conserve time and resources wherever possible. With less than 20 minutes of research, I streamlined the most time-consuming part of a previous job into a quick task that it should have been all along. By researching software capabilities and adjusting procedures, I saved at least 250 hours per year per designer. In an office with only two designers, 500 extra hours go a long way.

I am internally motivated. I design because I like it. It’s fun. Even if I had a different day job, I would still design after dinner while watching reruns of “Murder, She Wrote.” I find a challenge and satisfaction in every project.

Finally (and possibly most importantly), I wipe up jelly I spill on the counter, pick up trash when walking the dog, and give the time, or directions when asked (if I have them). I have an affinity for cats (dogs too). I am learning to embrace the Oxford comma. Sean Connery is my favorite James Bond. I am kind of okay at drywalling. Pepsi is NOT an acceptable substitute for Coke.