In the creative talent world, too many people take things WAY too seriously. Our goal in life is to provide our clients with services that thrill them—not only achieving expectations but exceeding them. Plus have some fun during the journey!
About Julie West
Julie opened West Works in 1992 —and knows how to get your project produced with creativity, accuracy and on-time.
As email marketing and web & print designer, Julie has experience in project design and conception. A graphic artist, she blends brand functionality into all aspects of client communication. Julie provides project coordination and design for award-winning magazines, catalogs, newsletters, ads, logo designs and print media services. As a consultant she has worked on numerous internal publications and with national accounts such as Dodge, Nestlé and Kraft Foods. She serves on numerous non-profit committees.
Work Experience
1992-present: President & Creative Director of West Works, a creative communication services company. Clients have included:
- Iowa Association of Independent Colleges & Universities
- Spina Bifida Association of Iowa
- Iowa League of Women Voters
- Good Government for Pleasant Hill
- Des Moines Concours d’Elegance
- Total Choice Printing
- Meredith Corporation
- Keep Iowa Beautiful
- Integer
1976 to 1992: Worked in roles as a graphic designer, photo assistant, sales representative and production manager at a local printer, typesetting house, color separations corporation, catalog design house and advertising agency. Also provided graphic design services as a freelance artist with numerous companies in Central Iowa.
Volunteer Work
Des Moines Concours d’Elegance – annual by invitation only premier car exhibition to raise money for the Children’s Cancer Connection – 2017-2023
- Communications Chair / Exhibitor Care
East High School Capital Campaign – 2020-2022 – met $4 million goal
- Committee Member
- Marketing / Design Services
East High Alumni Association Board
- President – 2016-2017
- Board Member
- Webmaster & Social Media Marketing
- Marketing Committee Co-Chair
- Finance Committee member
East High Alumni Foundation
- Former board member
- 2018 EHS Hall of Fame Inductee
Issa Trust Foundation (Jamaica) – annual in-person photography assistance and donation promotion
- 2010 to 2015
Altoona Area Chamber of Commerce
- Member since 1999
- Board Member – 2009-2010
- Executive Board Member – 2011-2012
- Economic Development Committee
Arthritis Foundation of Iowa
- Event promotions
Best Buddies of Iowa
- Organization promotions and design services
Awards & Community Involvement
Nominated and accepted into the 2015-2016 Leadership Iowa program, sponsored by the Iowa Association of Business & Industry. Started in 1982, Leadership Iowa is a 9-month premier issues-awareness program promoting leadership within the state. Graduated in June 2016.
Small Business of the Year Award (Altoona Area Chamber of Commerce) – 2011
Newell Franklin Award for initial development and leadership role in Altoona Palooza, a citywide event – 2011. Also recognized by the State of Iowa for this award.
Religion Communicators Council, DeRose/Hinkhouse Memorial Communication Award
- Single Issue Periodicals for Magazine, Local or Regional, Award for Excellence for Design, Photography & Content (For Good magazine) – 2009 & 2010 Awards