Carl Cummings

About Carl Cummings

I’m a Brand Strategist — or as some of my clients like to say, a Brand Therapist.I built my career from blue-collar roots and a creative background, and that perspective still shapes everything I do: clarity, craftsmanship, and common sense.Over the years, I’ve guided manufacturers, wellness brands, and community-driven organizations — including nonprofits — to find their identity and express it with confidence, from internal operations to how they show up in the world.My approach is simple: no fluff, no marketing buzzwords. I work like a head coach — I don’t run the plays; I make sure the team knows the playbook and stays aligned.For nonprofits, that often means helping leadership clarify purpose, align decision-making, and strengthen the connection between their mission and how they communicate it — the same principles, just applied with heart and accountability.I also guide clients in using AI tools the right way — not to replace creativity, but to support it. Whether it’s using ChatGPT to plan campaigns or visual tools like Midjourney and Firefly to explore design directions, I help teams integrate AI thoughtfully so it fits their brand voice and purpose.If you’re ready to align your brand around a shared purpose and stop chasing random marketing tactics, let’s talk.

Experience

1. Brand Strategist

   Carl Cummings Brand Strategy

   Jan 2008 — Present · Milwaukee, WI, US

   I help organizations clarify their brand philosophy, playbook, and positioning — ensuring every department stays aligned with the same vision.I work as the “head coach” of the brand, guiding teams toward consistent messaging, strong internal culture, and authentic customer experience.I also help clients use AI tools like ChatGPT for planning and brand strategy, and visual platforms such as Midjourney, Firefly, and Leonardo for concept development and image generation — always with a focus on maintaining brand integrity and consistency.

Education

• The Art Institutes

  Associate's degree, Graphic Design and Illustration

• Art Institute of Seattle

  AA, Visual Communications

  1987 — 1989

• University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

  Bachelor of Arts (BA), Art/Art Studies, General

  1983 — 1987

• University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

  Bachelor of Arts (BA), Art/Art Studies, General

  2010 — 2012

Skills

• Design Strategy
• Project Manager
• Brand Development
• Consulting
• Visual Communication
• Design Consulting
• Web Marketing
• Concept Development
• User Experience Design
• Online Marketing
• Concept Design
• Corporate Identity
• Brand Awareness
• Sustainability
• Graphic Design
• Logo Design
• Branding & Identity
• Creative Direction
• Web Design
• Packaging Design
• Art Direction
• User Interface Design
• Strategic Planning
• Information Architecture
• Brand Strategy
• Marketing
• Packaging
• Marketing Strategy