Kristen G. Taylor

Maryland | Washington, D.C.

hello@ktglen.com

Graphic + Video + Web + Print

Professional Summary

Creative and strategic Visual Information Specialist with over 25 years of experience designing for federal, military, academia, and private-sector. Adept at developing high-impact branding, print, web, and multimedia products from concept through delivery — including graphic design, video production, and front-end web development. Recognized for independently leading major visual redesigns, collaborating effectively with stakeholders, and delivering polished products that meet mission objectives. Background includes service as a Navy linguist with TS/SCI clearance, and a proven ability to adapt, self-teach, and solve complex problems under pressure. Excels in roles requiring a blend of creativity, precision, and purpose.

Experience

Visual Information Specialist (GS-11, Step 5)

US Army War College, Strategic Studies Institute & USAWC Press (Carlisle, PA)
Nov 2020–Sep 2025

  • Maintain and expand agency websites using HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, AFPIMS (web.mil), and WordPress; ensure accessibility, optimization, and compliance across devices and browsers.
  • Independently redesign visual branding for all publications, including academic journals, books, and monographs, now used as institutional standard.
  • Produce, edit, and publish video content to support promotional and research initiatives; integrate transitions, captions, music, and visual effects.
  • Develop, launch, and manage four syndicated podcast channels, growing audience and reach.
  • Lead creation of publication templates, multimedia products, and social graphics to support organizational goals.
  • Collaborate with senior leadership to translate technical research into engaging, accessible visuals.
  • Archive and manage content, assets, and publication metadata across multiple digital systems.
Download My Resume

A Selection of Book & Journal Covers

After reformatting the interior of Press publications I new cover designs which I then developed into guidelines and custom templates (still in use today) for the USAWC’s monographs, books, and quarterly journal, Parameters. I designed each of these in coordination with the authors or the Press.

 

First Year of Redesigned Journal Covers (Black & White with Single Spot Color)

A Selection of Promotional Videos / Webinars

Co-Owner & Creative Director

Biz Brand Studio, LLC (Utah & Nevada)
2010–2020

  • Delivered full-spectrum creative services for small businesses and professional associations, including branding, front-end web development, graphic design, and digital strategy.
  • Designed, built, and maintained responsive websites using WordPress, HTML, CSS, PHP, and JavaScript — optimizing for mobile-first performance, SEO, and user engagement.
  • Created original brand identities and visual assets, including logos, style guides, marketing collateral, infographics, presentation decks, and print-ready materials.
  • Managed domain registration, DNS configuration, SSL certificates, hosting environments, and site security for clients across varied industries.
  • Produced custom UI/UX designs that guided users through conversion paths — from headline to CTA — increasing client visibility, engagement, and sales.
  • Edited and published promotional and instructional video content, webinars, and social media campaigns using Adobe Premiere Pro and related tools.
  • Wrote content and messaging tailored to match client voice and suit their desired audience, supporting brand clarity and professional consistency across channels.
  • Collaborated directly with clients to assess business goals and translate them into strategic creative deliverables within scope, timeline, and budget.
  • Implemented efficient file management, asset libraries, and cloud storage systems to streamline production and backup processes.

    Visual Information Specialist (NAF-4)

    35th Force Support Squadron, Marketing Dept. (Misawa Air Base, Japan)
    Sep 2006 – May 2009

    • Designed, developed, and maintained the official website for the 35th Force Support Squadron, navigating Air Force regulations to secure publishing authority and site approval through Chain of Command.
    • Granted full release authority and QA oversight due to unique blend of technical expertise and prior Top Secret clearance; the site earned a “Best Practice” designation by the PACAF Inspector General.
    • Created, edited, and published all site content — including photography, retouched images, written features, menus, events, travel itineraries, and stakeholder submissions.
    • Served as editor and designer of the squadron’s full-color magazine (print + digital), managing layout, copywriting, and stakeholder coordination to meet strict production deadlines.
    • Provided marketing and creative support for MWR operations, briefing command staff on upcoming initiatives and assisting with event promotions.
    • Trained and mentored successor in web design software (Dreamweaver, Photoshop, Illustrator), local file systems, and Adobe Bridge for successful transition upon relocation.

    Cryptologic Technical Interpretive (CTI-9211), E-4

    U.S. Navy – Regional Security Operations Center | Kunia, HI
    May 1994 – Dec 1997

    • Operated within a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) to intercept, translate, and analyze foreign radio communications (HUMINT) in Mandarin Chinese.
    • Decrypted encrypted transmissions and contributed to breaking cypher code shifts on weekly and monthly cycles.
    • Promoted to Area Analyst; synthesized raw data into actionable intelligence by identifying behavioral and operational patterns across exercises and events.
    • Delivered daily intelligence briefings to senior commanders, providing insight into emerging threats and foreign military activity.
    • Maintained secure satellite communications with field analysts and operators, ensuring timely exchange of intelligence and situational updates.

    Education & Training

    Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center – Monterey, CA

    Technical Certificate in Mandarin Chinese, Nov 1993

    • 45 Semester Hours | GPA: 3.8
    • Coursework included advanced Mandarin, Chinese culture, military terminology, and regional studies.

    University of Colorado – Boulder

    Completed 63.3 Semester Hours toward B.A. in Mandarin Chinese

    • GPA: 3.4 | Minor: International Relations
    • Additional transfer credits from UC Irvine, Orange Coast College, and UCCS prior to Navy enlistment.

    Professional Development

    • CreativePro Week – Adobe Creative Cloud Mastery (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop)
    • Copyediting Course – Editorial best practices for digital and print publishing
    • Ongoing self-directed training in HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, and Adobe Premiere Pro

    Language

    Mandarin Chinese – Advanced (DLI-certified, CTI-9211)