Maureen is a Senior Design Lead at LINK with 20+ years of experience turning complex ideas into impactful visual stories. Her career spans roles in the military, government, and tech—from aerial videographer in the U.S. Air Force to Chief of Publishing & Design at Airman magazine, the USDA, FDA, and startups Sandboxx and BobiHealth.
She’s also an educator and mentor, serving as Chair for AIGA BMORE Design Week and volunteering with the DC Video ShootOff. Maureen holds a BFA in Digital Design from American Intercontinental University, and her work has earned multiple awards, including two DoD Graphic Designer of the Year honors.
What’s your biggest challenge as a designer or creative?
Balancing the work part of being a creative with the “I do what I want!” part of being creative without burning out
What’s a piece of advice that has stuck with you?
Don’t gatekeep your skills or talent. Build the community and share the knowledge.
What are your top 3 favorite books or movies? (doesn’t have to be design-related)
I don’t know that I have a TOP 3, but here are 3 of my must reads:
- The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
- The Power by Naomi Alderman
- Furiously Happy by Jenny Lawson
What’s one tool, object, or routine that helps you get through the workday?
Dual monitors. When you deal with true “multi” media day in and day out, you have to be able to see and navigate everything while still staying available on your communication channels. I love that wide-angle view. 🙂
What sparks creativity for you?
Good art and design. Nature—specifically the ocean. The clever things people say.
What do you love doing outside of design?
Reading. I’m in several book clubs but my favorite by far is my horror book club. I also enjoy crafting and arting. I’ve dabbled in a bit of everything, from acrylics and woodburning to mosaics, embroidery, collage and more. I want to art all of it!
Social Media
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/designstew
Instagram: @designstew
Website: http://www.maureenstewart.design