Kelli Ann Woods
Kelli Ann Woods is an experienced Graphic Designer and Prepress Specialist with 30 years in the industry, including 26 years at the Star Tribune, where she advanced from entry-level graphic designer to supervisory and specialist roles. Her primary expertise lies in graphic design and pre-press production, with deep experience in layout preparation, print production workflows, quality control, and publication processes. Over the years, she has developed a reputation for reliability, creative problem-solving, and the ability to navigate major shifts in print and digital publishing while maintaining high standards of craftsmanship and efficiency.
Currently, Kelli Ann balances multiple professional roles. She works as a pharmacy clerk, providing direct support to patients, and is a certified Notary Public. Alongside these positions, she is developing a dual-service platform that combines graphic design services with notary work, focusing on building flexible and independent income streams while reestablishing professional stability. Her most notable professional achievement includes sustaining a 26-year career at the Star Tribune and successfully reinventing herself to expand her skills into new service areas, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Kelli Ann is deeply engaged in her creative passions and personal interests. She enjoys gardening, photography, road-trip travel, and exploring new places when her health allows. Inspired by her aunt, she maintains a lifelong appreciation for art and nature, which continues to influence her creative work. Through her professional and personal pursuits, Kelli Ann exemplifies dedication, continuous learning, and the pursuit of meaningful, versatile contributions to her community and clients.
• Kelli Ann H Woods
Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State
• Capella University - BSIT
• Minnesota School of Business - ASIT
• Minneapolis College of Art and Design - BFA
• Community College of Philadelphia - AAS
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to consistency and loyalty to my craft, a strong work ethic that has carried me through decades of industry changes, and a willingness to adapt and reinvent myself—even later in my career. Creative problem-solving and perseverance during difficult transitions, including my recent layoff, have also been key to my continued growth and achievements.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my aunt, who was an early influence on me. She nurtured my artistic talent, encouraged my creativity, and shared her love of gardening, all of which helped shape my own creative interests and approach to my career.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry to focus on building skills that are adaptable across different fields, prepare for change even in long-term careers, and prioritize financial stability during stable periods. Never believe it’s “too late” to start over, and trust that reinvention is possible at any stage of life.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is navigating industry layoffs and the increasing automation in print and publishing, which has created job instability in traditional design roles. Health limitations and economic uncertainty also affect career options and flexibility. At the same time, there are exciting opportunities, including freelance and hybrid careers, entrepreneurship through service-based work like combining design with notary services, remote and flexible business models, and leveraging long-term experience to offer consulting or specialized niche services.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life include reliability and integrity, taking pride in my craftsmanship, and fostering independence. I am committed to lifelong learning, maintaining financial responsibility, and approaching career transitions with dignity and optimism.