WORK HISTORY

TAIT DESIGN CO. | Founder + Creative Director (2013-Present | 2015 Onwards FT)

In 2013, I launched my own product design studio, TAIT Design Co.

My first product was The Turbo Flyer, a handmade balsa model airplane kit that came in a clever handmade packaging concept. Following a very successful launch, what started as a hobby outside of work became my full time job within 2 years of its existence. I’ve since expanded the line into both the homeware and toy categories and our product line is now sold in 250+ stores globally, including stores like West Elm, CB2, Restoration Hardware and several high-end museum shops such as the Guggenheim and SFMOMA. I oversee a team of 20+ manufacturing partners in the US to produce our products, and am the Creative Director on all new products. I am involved in all products from their prototyping stage to their final realization - encompassing all aspects of design and marketing - including the photoshoots and launches. TAIT Design Co. has won several awards and has been featured in several publications both online and in print including Design Milk, Real Simple, Communication Arts, Martha Stewart Living, The Dieline and more.

Team Detroit | Associate Creative Director (2014-2015 Contract)

Helped lead the technology beat team for Ford Social. Oversaw weekly brainstorms to develop short and long term content for different social channels. Presented creative team’s work to clients on a weekly basis to sell through & collaborate with them to tweak ideas.

Organic | Associate Creative Director (2013-2014 FT)

Worked closely with Kimberly-Clark clients and Creative Director to formulate work for Pull-Ups to solve brand-perception, information-gaps, and improve sales. Developed a new website, teaching-tool app, social content, and email strategy for expecting Moms.

Team Detroit | Senior Art Director (2010-2013 FT)

Lead Art Director, Designer, and Creative Strategist for Ford Social – Ford’s integrated marketing team for all things social. Responsible for overseeing all social projects, in both digital & physical capacities, as well as ideation for social integration & direction for all vehicle launches. Led brainstorms, ideation sessions, design direction, and presentations for senior clients working in tandem directly with our Creative Director and Executive Creative Director.

Organic | Designer (2009-2010 FT)

Designer primarily operating in various digital capacities for the JEEP, Chrysler, Dodge, and Kimberly Clark brands. Responsibilities included asset creation, design, and concept development. Additionally, assisted with pitches for Gatorade and Hilton Hotels.

Media Genesis | Designer (2007-2009 FT)

Designer, front-end developer, and UX designer for multiple interactive platforms with clients ranging from the Detroit Symphony Orchestra to Mazda.

SKILLS

Pitching, Presentation Development (proficient in Keynote), Brainstorming & Ideation, Creative Leadership, Creative & Business Strategy, Graphic Design, Product Design, Packaging Design, Photography, Social Content Creation, Physical Prototyping + Manufacturing Expertise

EDUCATION

EASTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY | 2007 

Concentration in Graphic Design & Photography

HONORS & AWARDS

Midwest Regional Design Award Winner - Precision Mobile | 16

Communication Arts Design Annual Award Winner - Perpetual Calendar | 16

HOW International Design Awards Winner - Precision Mobile | 16

The Dieline Awards: 2nd Place - Precision Mobile | 16

The Dieline Awards: 3rd Place - Turbo Flyer® Pattern Series | 16

The Dieline Awards: 1st Place - Sling-Slang YOYO | 15

ALL TAIT DESIGN CO. PRESS: https://www.taitdesignco.com/press

FWA Site of the Day Dodge Charger | 10 

IAB award for outstanding website Dodge Charger | 10 

AIGA Urban Forest Project | 08 

EMU Honors Show - Best In Show | 06 

EMU Student Show - Best In Show | 06 & 07 

Emil & Juanita Weddige Scholarship | 06 

EMU Campus Leader Scholarship | 03 - 06