MILAN, IL – Edwards Creative is thrilled to announce a game-changing addition to our team: renowned craftsman and custom fabricator Randy Vaassen! With over three decades of unparalleled experience and a reputation for bringing visions to life, Randy will be instrumental in launching Edwards Creative's custom fabrication capabilities to the next level, ensuring we continue to create one-of-a-kind projects that set new industry standards.
As a lifelong learner who thrives on figuring things out and trying new materials and methods, Randy knew early on that art, design, engineering, and creating were a lifelong driving force.
A graduate from Colorado State with a bachelor’s in fine arts and a concentration in graphic design and pottery, Randy moved back to his hometown of Dubuque, Iowa, in 1994. With a portfolio in hand, he quickly landed a job with McCullough Creative and began in their production department. He also channeled his artistic prowess into a local pottery studio where he made unique pieces and taught classes. With an eye for design, the mind of an engineer, and the hands of a craftsman, Randy began the journey of collaborating with designers to build custom displays and exhibits.
Randy took a brief professional detour along the way to complete architectural drawings for a local firm. This allowed him to hone his skills while learning the best approach to tackling larger projects and solving problems from different angles. However, the call of hands-on custom fabrication work beckoned Randy, and he soon found himself returning to his former creative agency.
Over the next 31 years, Randy traveled the country crafting and installing the custom-made pieces he helped to build, including a few of his favorite projects, like a 10’ tall cutaway oil filter, and a hope chest for his daughter’s graduation, Randy also designed his own house, and outfitted it with custom designed and self-built pieces, including a two-story tree with platform on the second level.
Outside of work, Randy is a family man first. He has been married to his wife for over 24 years, and they have five children, ranging from 20 to 28 years old. When he's not crafting with his hands, Randy is an avid cyclist who enjoys spending time with his family and his pets.
"This opportunity is a fabricator's dream—a chance to get my hands on new, challenging projects and collaborate with a group of truly creative minds," stated Randy. "I can't wait to see what we'll build together and push the boundaries of custom fabrication."
What does Randy joining our amazing team mean for our clients?