Senior Graphic Designer

Tom Ackerman

Tyrone
Brooks

Tom@timberline-visuals.com

linkedin.com/in/thomas-ackerman8

775-685-9514

Reno, NV

Summary

I’m an experienced, detail-driven designer with over a decade of creative work spanning branding, visual design, and digital content. I’ve built logos, campaigns, websites, and motion-driven media that blend strategy with aesthetics—always aiming to tell a clear story and create real impact.

With a background in the apparel industry and hands-on experience in photography, video production, and design systems, I bring a well-rounded creative approach to every project. I’ve worked closely with cross-functional teams—from developers and marketers to founders and clients—to bring ideas to life that are not only beautiful but purposeful.

Driven by curiosity and a deep respect for craft, I’m always exploring new tools, techniques, and perspectives to push my work further. Whether designing interfaces, producing visual content, or building brands from scratch, my goal is simple: to create work that resonates—visually, emotionally, and strategically.

Driven by curiosity and a deep respect for craft, I’m always exploring new tools, techniques, and perspectives to push my work further. Whether designing interfaces, producing visual content, or building brands from scratch, my goal is simple: to create work that resonates—visually, emotionally, and strategically.

Driven by curiosity and a deep respect for craft, I’m always exploring new tools, techniques, and perspectives to push my work further. Whether designing interfaces, producing visual content, or building brands from scratch, 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—while coaching 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

Links

Linkedin

Instagram

YouTube

tom@timberline-visuals.com

+775-685-9514

unsplash.com/@reddfrancisco