How did you first get interested in the graphic arts, or decide to focus on graphic communications in school?
I’ve always been a creative person and enjoyed art, photography, and design, but it wasn’t until I started taking graphic design courses in college that I realized how much I loved creating work with a purpose. I became especially interested in the graphic communications field because it combines creativity with technology and problem-solving. As I learned more about print production, branding, and the design process, I discovered how much goes into bringing an idea from concept to a finished product. That blend of creativity and technical precision is what ultimately led me to pursue Graphic Information Technology at Arizona State University.
Did you take any courses in high school that were related to graphic communications, or that prepared you for your planned career?
I didn’t take graphic communications courses in high school, but I was involved in creative classes that helped me develop an eye for design and visual storytelling. My interest really grew once I attended Central Arizona Community College, where I earned my associate degree in Graphic Design and Photography. That experience gave me a strong design foundation and inspired me to continue my education at ASU, where I could dive deeper into graphic communications, print technologies, and production workflows.
How do you think going through your education process prepared you for the workforce?
My education prepared me by giving me both technical knowledge and real-world experience. At ASU, I wasn’t just learning design software, I was working in the Print & Imaging Lab, operating production equipment, managing print jobs, and learning how projects move from design to final production. I also had opportunities to lead student organizations, manage creative projects, collaborate with clients, and present my work publicly. Those experiences taught me communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and how to adapt under deadlines, all of which have been incredibly valuable in my professional career.
What company are you working for now and what types of products and services do they provide to their customers?
I currently work at Prisma as a Creative Traffic Specialist. Prisma is a graphic communications company that provides marketing, print, packaging, fulfillment, and creative solutions for businesses across a variety of industries. My role focuses on helping creative projects move efficiently through production by coordinating workflows, communicating with internal teams, and ensuring projects stay organized and on schedule.
What job did you first have with the company when you started, what position do you have now, and/or what else have you done since joining the company?
I first joined Prisma as an intern in the Associate Development Program, where I had the opportunity to rotate through each department and learn how every part of the company contributes to serving our customers. From creative and prepress to print production, fulfillment, and operations, the experience gave me a well-rounded understanding of the graphic communications industry and how each team works together to bring projects to life.
After completing the internship, I accepted a full-time position as a Creative Traffic Specialist, where I now coordinate creative workflows, communicate with cross-functional teams, and help keep projects moving efficiently from concept through production. Looking back, starting as an intern gave me a much greater appreciation for the collaboration required across departments and has made me more effective in my current role because I understand how each step impacts the final product.
What do you think employers are looking for in today’s workforce and the current industry environment?
Technical skills are important, but I think employers are equally looking for people who communicate well, are adaptable, take initiative, and are willing to continue learning. Technology and workflows are constantly evolving, especially with advances in automation and AI, so being open to change is essential. Employers also value team members who can solve problems, collaborate effectively, and maintain a positive attitude while managing multiple priorities.
Is there anything that you have found to be particularly different from what you initially expected, now that you’ve progressed through your work career for a period of time?
One of the biggest surprises has been how collaborative the industry really is. While I expected to spend most of my time focused on creative work, I’ve learned that communication and teamwork are just as important as design skills. Every project involves coordination between multiple departments, and success depends on everyone working together. I’ve also gained a much greater appreciation for the planning and logistics that happen behind the scenes to bring projects to life.
Have you changed your plans or ideas about what area or type of job you might like to have since you first considered the graphic communications field and began studying for a career in it? What led to those changes?
Absolutely. When I first entered the field, I imagined myself working primarily as a graphic designer. Through internships, campus leadership roles, and my current position, I’ve discovered that I also enjoy project coordination, production management, and improving creative workflows. Seeing how design connects with production and client service has broadened my interests and shown me there are many rewarding career paths within graphic communications beyond traditional design roles.
What do you see yourself doing a few years from now?
Over the next few years, I hope to continue growing within the graphic communications industry by taking on more leadership responsibilities and expanding my knowledge of print production, creative operations, and project management. I want to continue learning from experienced professionals, contribute to meaningful projects, and help improve creative processes that support both clients and production teams. I’m excited to see where the industry continues to evolve and to grow alongside it.
Was being a recipient of a PGSF (now The Foundation for Graphic Communication Education) scholarship important for your journey, or did it have an impact on your future or ability to succeed in the industry?
Receiving the PGSF scholarship meant a great deal to me. Beyond helping ease the financial burden of completing my education, it reinforced that professionals within the graphic communications industry believed in my potential. That encouragement motivated me to continue pursuing leadership opportunities, internships, and hands-on experiences that prepared me for my career. The scholarship allowed me to focus more on learning, networking, and gaining industry experience, and I’m incredibly grateful for the investment that was made in my future.
