Meet Laura Gleason, a graphic designer at Sign Pro of Lincoln (www.signprolincoln.com).
How did you get started in the business? – After finishing graduate school in California, I moved back home to Lincoln. I started out with some freelance work while applying for full time positions all over the country. I was beyond excited to get on board with Sign Pro, where I would be able to develop my skills as a graphic designer while staying in my hometown. I’ve learned so much about designing, working with clients and working with a team.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Balancing my work load with personal time. As an artist with a full time job as well as freelance work, it is common to feel overloaded. Since finishing grad school, I am still learning how to balance personal time with my career. Sometimes I worry about what I may miss out on by turning away freelance opportunities. It’s extremely important to me that I do my best to meet all project deadlines!
Tell us a little about your business. – At Sign Pro, we are passionate about providing the best possible signage and graphics to meet the needs of local customers, whether it is full business signage or just a small personal project. For 30 years, Sign Pro has helped local businesses promote their services with eye-catching advertising. As the graphic designer, I make sure each project meets the client’s desired style and conveys their message clearly. It’s so exciting to see our projects on buildings and vehicles all over the Lincoln area and beyond!
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – That would be when I decided to change career goals during college. I went to school to become a doctor and earned my bachelor’s degree in Biology/Pre-Medicine at Nebraska Wesleyan University. About halfway through, I decided I would rather contribute to the community with my artistic abilities as well as my scientific background. Instead of using my degree for medical school, I temporarily moved to California and earned a graduate certificate in Scientific Illustration. I now spend every day creating visuals to assist local businesses as well as national scientific/medical organizations. I am so glad I made that decision, and that I have chosen to pursue a career out of something I am most passionate about.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – I like to wake up later than usual, go to the rock climbing gym, shop, read books and create art! On an extended break, I like to visit my parents in Colorado, where we do a lot of hiking.
Who inspires you? – Definitely my dad. He is an artist and 3D animator who has worked from the ground up to get where he is now. More and more I have realized I have been following in his footsteps every day. We share a love for digital art, trying new gadgets and pushing each other to improve our skills.
What local nonprofit organization are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – Clinic with a Heart! After spending a semester volunteering with them, it’s been amazing to see so many doctors, nurses, dentists and even optometrists taking the time out of their busy schedules and working together to provide care to people in need.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – My all-time favorite restaurant is Lazlo’s! I’ve eaten there once a week for years and it’s always just as glorious as the first time!
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – www.signprolincoln.com; (402) 421-6600; artwork@signprolincoln.com.