Senior Graphic Designer
Tom@timberline-visuals.com
linkedin.com/in/thomas-ackerman8
775-685-9514
Reno, NV
Summary
I’m an experienced, detail-focused designer with over a decade in creative work across branding, visual design, and digital content. I’ve built logos, campaigns, websites, and motion-driven media that blend strategy with aesthetics, always working to tell a clear story and deliver real impact.
My background in the apparel industry and hands-on experience in photography, video production, and design systems give me a well-rounded creative approach to any project. I’ve collaborated closely with cross-functional teams, from developers and marketers to founders and clients, bringing ideas to life in ways that feel both purposeful and memorable.
Driven by curiosity and a deep respect for craft, I’m always exploring new tools, techniques, and perspectives to push my work further. Whether I’m designing interfaces, producing visual content, or building brands from the ground up, my goal is simple: to create work that resonates visually, emotionally, and strategically.
Work Experience
Senior Graphic Production Artist
Feb 2017 – Dec 2024
CustomInk, Reno, NV
Merged creative precision with technical expertise to produce flawless, print-ready artwork at scale. Coached new designers to thrive in a fast-paced, detail-obsessed production environment.
Print-Ready Design & Custom Artwork Creation
Rebuilt thousands of customer-submitted designs, converting rough or low-res ideas into crisp, production-ready files using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
Managed complex image tasks including photo restoration, color correction, and detailed cleanup.
Prepped artwork for screen printing, DTG, sublimation, and specialty processes, contributing to a <1% error rate.
Identified and resolved file issues before production—ensuring smoother workflows and fewer delays.
Production Support & Creative Problem Solving
Troubleshot low-res uploads, layout conflicts, and color issues across hundreds of jobs weekly.
Served as a creative translator between client intent and print execution, bringing clarity to the process.
Training, Coaching & Leadership
Trained and mentored new hires, guiding them through onboarding and helping them hit quality benchmarks.
Balanced training responsibilities with live production work while providing ongoing support across teams.
Graphic Production Artist
May 2014 – Feb 2017
CustomInk, Reno, NV
Set the standard for quality, speed, and execution in a high-volume, fast-paced production environment—delivering polished, accurate designs.
Created production-ready files optimized for various print methods including screen printing, DTG, and sublimation.
Proofed and quality-checked designs to ensure layout accuracy and consistent brand presentation.
Communicated directly with customers to align on creative expectations and technical needs.
Maintained a sub-1% error rate while ranking among top performers for speed and consistency.
Collaborated with print teams and press operators to resolve file issues and minimize rework.
Lead Monitor, Security DOD Contractor
Nov 2011 – May 2013
Sallyport Global — Middle East
Led security teams and coordinated critical infrastructure for military-aligned operations, overseeing 100+ personnel across multiple zones.
Managed 40+ staff and 70+ subcontractors, streamlining schedules, logistics, and mission protocols with zero delays.
Maintained compliance with strict U.S. military and host nation security protocols.
Delivered training programs in site security, emergency procedures, and team leadership.
Oversaw logistics including vehicle deployment and equipment distribution to ensure readiness.
Provided 24/7 operational leadership, responding to emergencies and driving team accountability.
This experience taught me how to lead under pressure, communicate clearly, and manage high-stakes workflows—skills I bring into every creative project I take on.
Skills & Tools
Branding & Identity Design
Digital Illustration
Print & Production Expertise
Apparel & Merchandise Design
Logo Design & Typography
Video Editing & Motion Graphics
Photo Retouching & Editing
Client Communication
Layout & Visual Composition
Pre-Press & File Optimization
Education & Certificates
Truckee Meadows Community College
Associate of Applied Science – Graphic Communications
