Introducing… a graphic designer
Jessica Combate is a Graphic Designer at Regional Printing and Graphics. She has been with HHS for more than nine years.
Favourite colour: if I have to pick just one… Pantone 3262/ music: Alternative Rock, Pop, Salsa, Jazz/ animal: Corgis!/ food: Sushi/ holiday: Christmas
What do you love most about your job?
I love how energized our clients become when their designs are brought to life. My colleagues and I take something that may have zero visual representation and give it functionality, cohesiveness, competitiveness, professional value, and make it recognizable. The best thing I can hear are comments like: “We couldn’t have done it without you!” or “You made our team/cause/event look amazing!” or “There was great reception.” That’s what my job is really all about -bringing a larger purpose to the forefront.
When you tell people what you do, how do they usually react?
People often have a positive association with graphic design. They’re intrigued and surprised by the types of projects our team has worked on. Many consider graphic design to focus on just one set of specialties, like web design or advertisements or logos, but in an organization this large we can design for a wide scope of projects in a given day.
What are your favourite ways to spend your free time?
I’m in the middle of learning Spanish and I love practicing. I also enjoy learning about and experiencing different cultures. My weekends are spent with my family, checking out local events, going on hikes with my dog, practising martial arts, and visiting different restaurants and cafes with friends.
“But even then, the tactic I use to solve these problems is still the same- Be Creative!”
What does a challenging day at work look like?
Challenging days are when unread emails have reached the double-digits, it feels as though we have dial-up internet, all of the software programs are crashing, the print equipment is in service, and the deadline was yesterday. But even then, the tactic I use to solve these problems is still the same- Be Creative!
What is one of your most gratifying experiences at HHS?
Branding the Caring for my COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) program was a great experience. The client and I worked together closely while planning and developing a logo brand, posters, brochures, referral forms, and stationery. We knew from the beginning that there was a limited budget, but through planning and exploring cost-saving options, we were able to bring all items to reality. It feels great to know that you can give a small community practice high-end materials at a fraction of the cost, empowering them to engage with others and provide the best health care.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
I don’t really like to do creative things at home as much. It takes up a lot of creative energy graphic designing full-time. I prefer creative outlets that are not primarily visual, like cooking or music.
“I have been fortunate enough to have seen how my designs and the designs of my colleagues have influenced different aspects of this organization.”
What do you eat to keep you energized at work?
My regulars include: oatmeal, yogurt, bananas, fruits, and lots of coffee. Somehow donuts occasionally find their way into our office.
What are your short and long term career goals?
I would like to obtain a diploma or degree in an added specialty, either in marketing or in web design/interactive design. Over the years I have been fortunate enough to have seen how my designs and the designs of my colleagues have influenced different aspects of this organization. I hope to continue to make that contribution. I want to design for new purposes and I want to see our designs permeate into new platforms!