Rene Vazquez is a graphic designer here in Orlando that specializes in traditional Print Design and Web Interface design. He has many years of experience working on an array of projects, ranging from identity systems to Flash websites.
What are some of your day to day job activities?
I am one of three graphic designers for all 18 of our offices in our Skanska U.S. division and I assist in any graphic-related content for the company. Everyday I work on something different, one day I can be working on an invitation, t-shirt illustration, logo design and the next day I can be working on a Flash interface, Indesign template, and site signage. This is one of the main reasons I like my job so much because I work on a variety of projects everyday.
What skills or abilities do you find are most important in your work?Being able to handle multiple jobs with different deadlines is one of the most valuable skills to have in my position. Another is learning how to manage your time efficiently because deadlines change and there are ALWAYS emergencies. A final skill that is important is learning how to work with different personalities. Finally, knowing Photoshop and Illustrator is key for my position.
Do you get to work one-on-one with clients or is your work geared for internal use only?90% of the jobs I get are from my internal “clients” across the country. Every now and then I can work with an outside client, but not often.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Seeing your final product being used throughout the company or on a job site where everyone can see.
What do you feel is your most difficult challenge in your position?Deadlines, Deadlines, Deadlines. Knowing how to manage your time to meet the deadlines while producing a good final product is a constant challenge.
What skills and qualities should someone have to be successful in this field of work?
See #2 answers and KNOW your programs. Your willingness to keep learning is key to success in this industry.
Is your work limited to print design or do you have opportunities to do interactive design?
Most of my work is print-related but I do work on Flash interfaces and will begin working in After Effects for some projects in the future.
In your estimation, how good are the future career opportunities in this field?I see this field as a very good opportunity for growth.
In your experience, what do you feel are the advantages and disadvantages to working in a small design firm vs. a large one?
Currently, I feel that a larger firm works best for me, but it depends on your situation and what your career goals are as a designer. I have worked for smaller firms and unfortunately it hasn’t worked out for me. Three of the smaller firms I have worked for went out of business and in turn I had to look for employment elsewhere. In my experience, the smaller firms offer less opportunity for advancement and the benefits offered are far less than a bigger firm. One aspect I appreciate more as I get older are the benefits and that was one factor I considered intently before taking my current role. With any company there are pros and cons, you just have to weigh out your options and see which works for you. Like I said, I prefer the bigger firms.
How important is it as a designer to know about printing presses and how they operate?
It is extremely important because you will need to know how you are going to approach the design. Knowing the printing process will help your design be successful.
Is there one locally that you would recommend?Yes, Progressive Communications has always been good to me. Ask for Paul Bodoia, he is the best rep I have ever had. Also, for smaller print jobs, Triangle Reprographics is great.
Have you ever done any freelance work and if so, what are some advantages and disadvantages to that vs. working in a corporate environment?
I do a minor amount of freelance design only because I just don’t have the time to work on big projects when I get home. If the project is interesting enough, I will take it on. My company treats me well, so I have that luxury. But at this moment, I am ok with working just in the corporate environment.There are many advantages in working freelance. If you can line up a string of steady clients, you can make a decent living at it. Working for yourself is great because you are your own boss and you dictate your hours and you can work from home. Unfortunately there are so many disadvantages for me that I will never do it full-time. Dealing with non-paying clients, the 2am calls from project managers, having no benefits, worrying when the next project is coming and the whole accounting part of it (among other things) is not for me. Some designers are able to handle that but I am good with working in my corporate job, going home at night and not worrying about work until the next day. Of course there are times when I have to work late nights, but those are few and far between. Once again it depends on your personality.
Do you have any other advice you can give me?1.Be Humble! There will always be a better designer better than you, but if you are humble, have a great personality and a strong portfolio, you will always beat out that arrogant rock-star designer. Our community is small and if you are a jerk, it will come back to haunt you.
2. Get to know your computer programs as much as you can and don’t stop learning about them.
3. Treat your classes now as your clients and take them seriously. Try to make the best projects now because your portfolio is the one thing that gets you an interview.
4. I can’t stress this enough, Act like a professional! If this is what you want to do as a career, act like a professional now.
5. Present your work with confidence. If you are not confident in your work, nobody will be.
6. NEVER turn in projects late. Deadlines are there for a reason and you are always expected to meet them no matter what the circumstances are. In a real job, there are no excuses and they don’t want to hear them. Be on time.
Rene Vazquez
Senior Graphic Designer
Skanska USA Building
Marketing
111 N. Magnolia Ave
Suite 1150
Orlando, FL 32801, United States
| Phone | +1 407 541 4750 |
| Mobile | +1 407 401 2374 |
| Fax |
