A BRIEF HISTORY
Childhood
My name is Dean Ellers and I grew up in the San Gabriel Valley as your typical boy next door - playing outside and letting my imagination run free was my favorite pastime. Looking back, it’s clear I felt fulfilled when creating things, from make-shift rockets to scrappy go-karts, and this need to ideate has permeated throughout my life into adulthood.
College Grad
As time requires, I had to grow up and before I knew it, it was time to attend university where I went to Cal State Fullerton and graduated with a Bachelors in Business Administration. After graduating, I started work as a Subcontracts Manager at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory where I discovered graphic design and reignited my desire to create.
JPL Experience
Through working with the creatives at JPL and supporting projects (i.e. the NASA Meatball logo, the Orbit Pavilion, and NASA Halloween posters), I caught a glimpse into the world of design and strategic communication. These experiences connected me with great people who encouraged me to explore and learn about graphic design by leveraging learning resources and mentorships.
Now
My time at JPL led me to an opportunity to practice graphic design full-time. At this point, I feel like I found my career path and I believe graphic design has changed my life for the better. It allows me to scratch my itch to create and also serve others at the same time. As a graphic designer, I'm driven to work with people that value design and see it as a vehicle to change attitudes, behavior, culture, and even lives. Apart from work and graphic design, you’ll catch me fueling with boba, playing soccer, taking photos, and walking around town with my wife, Bree.