PPB September 2019

FEATURE | Rising Stars Caitlin Downing, 29 Senior Graphic Designer Ariel Premium Supply, Inc. St. Louis, Missouri Education Degree in graphic design from Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida First Industry Job She began at Ariel Premium Supply as a production artist intern after graduating from college in 2013, but she was exposed to the promotional products industry as a child. Her mother worked for several distributor and supplier companies. Why She’s A Rising Star Her nominator says she has a rare combination of artistic and creative skills, coupled with a strong head for business andmarketing strategy—far ahead of her years of experience. She has introduced new team-based productivity tools and schedulingmechanisms and created a cross-training platform that lets the team share workloads. At only 29, she’s alreadymentoring the team’s new designers. What Inspires Her “My inspirations tend to be more from the design spectrum. Ben Johnston is an amazing hand-letter genius who can push the boundaries when it comes to layout and breaking barriers. Sagmeister & Walsh is an amazing design firm with vivid ad captivating visuals, commercials, packaging and more. Orlando Arocena is probably one of the best illustrators when it comes to color and composition.” Most Difficult Challenge “The most difficult challenge I had to overcome and am still working on each day is letting go of control. I like things to be in order and to follow a process, but both work and my life are very dynamic. No one can control what goes on 24/7. I have learned that I need to let some things go, so that I can really enjoy the things that I love and take care of myself both mentally and physically. Both my parents have had a few close calls the past couple years. This has just really cemented in that I need to do the best I can in life and enjoy the time I have with my loved ones. Less control and more living in the moment.” What She’d Like To Accomplish In The Next 24 Months “Hopefully traveling a lot more. I am also looking to expand my education on coding, motion graphics, video production and possibly get my master’s in graphic design. And, of course, still be working on my podcast and freelance business.” What’s Needed To Recruit Young Pros To The Industry “I am a person who values results and knowledge over years, experience or labels. Respect is also a two-way street. I think to attract and keep younger professionals, listening and respecting what they bring to the table is important. Yes, it takes time to understand this industry, as it’s very different from retail, but I do believe working together can accomplish much more.” Best Advice For Industry Newbies “Don’t give up. Sometimes you have to work your way up to get where you want to and that is OK. Not everyone can have the same life or achieve things the same way. That doesn’t mean you should give up when you fall down, or when things are not going the way you planned. Just get back up and keep pushing forward. If I have learned anything, it’s that the most successful people, at least the ones I aspire to be, are people who push and do as much as they possibly can to get where they want to be. You can’t complain or be frustrated with your position in life, if you haven’t done anything to change it. So, get up and do something about it.” Tips To Relax And Recharge “I am a constant busy body and work on a podcast and freelance jobs on the side. If I have downtime, I usually spend it painting, reading, hanging with family and friends, traveling or playing video games.” 26 | SEPTEMBER 2019 |