Travis Graves

Work Experience

• Vampire Acchors

  Founder & President

  Envisioned and designed hybrid, shallow-water aluminum anchor; conducted research to determine best manufacturing approach; created and licensed start-up company that manufactures and markets products to fishermen. Patent application in process. • Grew business from zero to $34K from Jan–May 2015 with ~600 sales year-to-date. • Currently in design phase of pneumatic model that will be stronger and faster, reducing average lift time 50% (from 8–4 seconds); expected deployment by year-end 2015. • Developed winning marketing collateral, utilizing social media advertising on eBay, Craigslist and various Bass Boat websites.

• Southern Woods, Inc.

  Shop Foreman

  Manufacture and install unique residential, commercial and governmental signage (wood, plastic and vinyl) as well as custom mailboxes, furniture and fencing for properties such as Julington Creek, World Golf Village and North Florida home builders. Lead shop operations and crews comprised of up to 4 members. Utilize, maintain and repair hand, mechanical, battery-powered and large-scale tools. Manage materials ordering, staging and $5K–$15K inventory; ensure compliance with OSHA regulations and orderly, clean environment. Interface with customers on job sites to warrant total satisfaction. Operate all machines, including saws, CNC, sanders, vinyl plotter, etc. Train new carpenters and machinists. Produce graphic decals, aluminum letters and vehicle/window stickers. Add new services during economic downturns, such as alligator trapping and vehicle customization. Perform administrative tasks as needed. • Produce 5–20 customized projects per week to precise specifications, employing written and verbal instructions, reading blueprints and interpreting drawings. • Repair and maintain shop equipment as well as small and large engines (gasoline and diesel) for lawn equipment, automobiles, boats, motorcycles and trucks. Adjust brakes, tighten bolts and screws, and reassemble equipment. Change oil, check batteries, repair tires and tubes and lubricate equipment and machinery as needed for optimal use. • Frequently recognized by clients for professionalism, surpassing deadlines and leaving sites spotless upon completion. • Tag and catch 100–120 nuisance alligators annually, ranging up to 11½ ft. and 850 lbs. • Reengineered inefficient processes and schedules to consistently meet deadlines, maintaining equipment in perfect working order that led to an organized, safe and clean working environment.

Education

• Florida State College

  High School Diploma - General