Indian Valley Vocational Center

Graphic Design

Instructor: Kelly Fehling

Hi, I’m Kelly Fehling, and I’ve been leading the Graphic Design program at IVVC since 2015. My journey in graphic design and print started more than 25 years ago at a commercial sign company in Bloomingdale, Illinois—and I’ve been hooked ever since.

Over the years, I’ve worked in nearly every corner of the industry, from large-format signs to high-end print production, spending time designing, troubleshooting, and learning something new every day. Before joining IVVC, I worked as one of the head designers at a leading print firm in Naperville, IL, where fast-paced creativity and problem-solving were part of everyday life.

Today, I bring that real-world experience directly into the classroom. My goal is to help students not only learn the technical side of design—like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign—but also understand the creativity, communication, and strategy behind great visual work.

Graphic design is an industry that is always changing, which means there’s always something new to create, explore, and teach. Out of all the roles I’ve had throughout my career, teaching has been the most rewarding by far. Watching students grow their confidence, discover their style, and prepare for future careers is what keeps me inspired every day.

GRAPHIC DESIGN I

Grades: 11, 12

Graphic Design I is the first year of a two-year sequence.

Units of study - Basic computer use, basic illustrating software (Illustrator), photo editing software (Photoshop, Bridge), publishing software (InDesign), basic equipment use for mock-up tools, presentation tools, vinyl cutter, vinyl and heat transfer equipment, basic use of a digital camera

Tasks you will complete -

Determine arrangement of illustrative material and select style and size of type
Create designs, concepts, and sample layouts, based on knowledge of layout principles and color theory
Develop graphics and layouts for product illustrations
Use computer software to generate new images
Use computer software to edit photographs
Review final layouts and suggest improvements as needed to peers
Maintain organized portfolio of images, photos, or previous work products
Prepare illustrations or rough sketches of material
Use digital cameras, filters and tripods
Determine desired images and picture composition, selecting and adjusting subjects, equipment, and lighting to achieve desired effects
Adjust apertures, shutter speeds, and camera focus based on a combination of factors such as lighting, field depth and subject motion
Transfer photographs to computers for editing, archiving, and electronic transmission

Skills/abilities you need to be successful - active listening, critical thinking, speaking in front of peers/clients, group work, reading comprehension, active learning, decision making, time management, following instructions, creativity, coordination

Related careers - Advertising, Desktop Publisher, Art Director, Photographer, Multimedia Artist, Project Management, Promotions Manager, Artist, Creative Director, Creative Manager, Design Director, Designer, Graphic Artist, Graphic Designer, Online Producer, Production Artist, Publications Designer

GRAPHIC DESIGN II

Grade: 12

Required: 70% or higher in Graphic Design I

Graphic Design II is the second year of a two-year sequence.

Units of study - Computer use, advanced illustrating software (Illustrator), photo editing software (Photoshop), publishing software (InDesign), equipment use for mock-up tools, presentation tools, vinyl cutter, vinyl and heat transfer equipment, advanced use of a digital camera, customer service

Tasks you will complete -

Determine arrangement of illustrative material and select style and size of type
Confer with clients to discuss and determine job specifications
Create designs, concepts, and sample layouts, based on knowledge of layout principles and color theory
Develop graphics and layouts for product illustrations
Use computer software to generate new images
Use computer software to edit photographs
Review final layouts and suggest improvements as needed to peers
Maintain organized portfolio of images, photos, or previous work products
Prepare illustrations or rough sketches of material, discuss with clients or instructor and make necessary changes
Draw and print illustrations and other artwork using computer
Research new software or design concepts
Study illustrations and photographs to plan presentation of materials, products or services (when necessary)
Act as a mentor / role model to first year students
Use digital cameras, filters and tripods
Determine desired images and picture composition, selecting and adjusting subjects, equipment, and lighting to achieve desired effects
Adjust apertures, shutter speeds, and camera focus based on a combination of factors such as lighting, field depth and subject motion
Transfer photographs to computers for editing, archiving, and electronic transmission

Dual Credit: COD GDSN 1101 - Digital Graphic Applications (3 credits)

Ms. Fehling can be reached at (815) 786-9873, extension 236 or via email at KFehling@ivvc.net.

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