Creative Sparks: Life at Studio Science | Vern Gutierrez

In Creative Sparks: Life at Studio Science, we spotlight the talented individuals who bring our work to life. This series offers a behind-the-scenes look at what fuels their creativity, how they tackle challenges, and the experiences that shape their journey. From standout moments to the everyday magic, we’re celebrating the people who make Studio Science special.

Meet Vern Gutierrez, a seasoned Visual Communications Designer known affectionately as “Quick-Turn Vern” for her speed, precision, and eagle-eyed attention to detail. For the past two years, Vern has been our go-to for high-quality production design delivered on tight timelines. Her sharp eye, creative instincts, and dedication make her a favorite among teammates and clients alike.

Kathleen Armbruster: Why do you like working for Studio Science? What makes you proud to be part of the team?

Vern Gutierrez: For me, it’s 100% the people. Since day one, it’s been nothing but green flags. During my very first interview, it already felt like I worked here. That’s such a rare feeling—I’ve never experienced anything like it before. Usually, you feel like you have to prove yourself or earn your place, but at Studio Science, I immediately felt welcomed and valued. It was so natural and genuine that I remember thinking, ‘Okay, I have to work here.’

I feel really lucky to be part of this team. The designers I work with—and my boss—have a way of making you feel not just included, but truly seen. That means a lot to me, especially in a role like mine. Production design is often invisible by nature. We’re the perfectionist cleanup crew behind the scenes. But here, people notice the little details. They’ll dig into a file and call out something I did with care, and that recognition makes all the difference.

And beyond the team, we get to work with some really amazing clients. It’s always rewarding to see the things I’ve worked on out in the world, making an impact.

Kathleen Armbruster: What does it mean to you to be part of the Studio Science team?

Vern Gutierrez: My time at Studio Science has genuinely been so healthy for me, personally and professionally. I’ve been able to grow in my career, build real trust with coworkers and clients, and, maybe most importantly, find a healthy work-life balance.

Before this, it was always either too much work or not enough. But here, I get to do my job, do it well, and then sign off knowing I’ve had a good day. That might sound simple, but it means a lot to me. Having that kind of balance and support is something I really value.

Kathleen Armbruster: What are some of the reasons you choose to stay at Studio Science?

Vern Gutierrez: There’s no ego here—and that’s one of the biggest reasons I felt right at home from the start. Everyone at Studio Science is incredibly talented, down to Earth, and genuinely pulls their weight. That kind of humble, candid culture is rare, and it’s a huge part of why I choose to stay.

I feel safe asking hard questions or raising concerns—whether it’s about a project, a client, or workload—because I’ve always been met with understanding and a problem-solving mindset. In the past, I struggled to speak up and ask for help, but here, people are quick to offer support without judgment.

It’s even more impressive that this kind of healthy, communicative culture exists in a fully remote environment. That’s something I really value.

Kathleen Armbruster: Can you share a favorite Studio Science memory with us?

Vern Gutierrez: One of my favorite memories was this hilarious Thanksgiving activity we did via Figma. One member of the team set up a FigJam with a collaged, mid-century alpine dining room scene, and our task was to ‘bring a dish’ by cutting and pasting images of our favorite foods onto virtual plates.

The results were absolutely priceless—someone added a box of Lactaid pills next to their plate, and another person’s plate was just a martini. It had me laughing so hard! It was such a fun, silly way to learn about everyone’s favorite foods. For me, I brought Tupperware because, of course, there’s always room for leftovers.

Every time I think back on it, I can’t help but smile. It was such a lighthearted, creative way to connect with the team.

Kathleen Armbruster: Our core values are: 1. Honesty is the only policy 2. None of us are smart as all of us 3. Being great as a choice. Which core value do you feel you exemplify most in your day-to-day work?

Vern Gutierrez: I’d say honesty is the only policy is the core value I most exemplify in my day-to-day work. The openness at Studio Science has given me a sense of stability and mutual respect. Everyone is great at sharing even the hard-to-hear stuff, which makes it easier for me to be transparent as well. It’s really refreshing to work in an environment where being candid is encouraged, and it helps me be more honest with myself and my work. Shoutout to greatness is a choice, though, because I definitely align with that in my personal life as well.

Want to learn even more about Life at Studio Science? Or think you’d like to join the team someday? Follow us on LinkedIn to stay connected with the news and events at Studio Science and and check out our careers page to see what role we're looking to hire.