Open to opportunities

Derek Sweeney Kesler

@dereksweeneykesler

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Multi-disciplinary multimedia artist and technical director with 20+ years experience.

Puerto Rico

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What I'm looking for

I am seeking a role that allows me to leverage my creative and technical skills in a collaborative environment, with opportunities for growth and innovation.

I am a multi-disciplinary multimedia artist, producer, and technical director with over 20 years of experience in experiential mediums, including 3D IMAX, broadcast, corporate events, museums, and festivals. My extensive background allows me to bring a unique blend of technical and creative fluency to high-performance teams across various sectors such as science, business, and entertainment. I thrive in fast-paced environments, consistently delivering exceptional results even under tight deadlines and limited resources.

As the owner/operator of Gorilla Vapes Santurce, I successfully established a US franchise in Puerto Rico, growing it from a $60k investment to over $450k in yearly sales. My role involved developing systems for business management, training employees, and inspiring leadership within my team. Previously, I served as a tech director at Scores Atlantic City, where I managed all tech and production needs for a large nightlife complex, overseeing a significant inventory of equipment and ensuring the successful execution of numerous live events.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Owner/Operator

Current

Gorilla Vapes

Mar 2016 - Aug 2024 (8 years 5 months)

Established a US franchise in Puerto Rico with a $60k investment, growing it to over $450K in yearly sales. Managed retail operations and developed systems for tracking and managing business aspects while training employees.

Project Management B2B Marketing Software Development Team Leadership Business Development Budget Management

Tech Director

Scores Atlantic City

Sep 2013 - Nov 2015 (2 years 2 months)

Managed all tech and production needs for a large nightlife complex, overseeing multiple venues and a significant equipment inventory. Produced and directed live events, consistently exceeding expectations under tight deadlines.

Stage & Broadcast Management Technical Direction Equipment Management Budget Management Team Coordination

Vice-President

3DeWitt LLC

Feb 2009 - Mar 2013 (4 years 1 month)

Assisted in managing an optical R&D company, focusing on budget management, market research, and software development. Played a key role in business negotiations and grant proposals.

Budget Management Market Research Software Development Negotiation Grants Project Management Team Leadership Strategic Planning Technical Writing

Associate Producer

Nanotoon Entertainment

Mar 2006 - Jan 2009 (2 years 10 months)

Coordinated the production of a 3D IMAX film, managing project documents and asset tracking. Led production meetings and assisted with technical tasks across multiple work sites.

Project Coordination Asset Management Production Documentation Team Leadership Event Planning Film Production 3D Scheduling Communication

Science Coordinator

Children’s Museum of Sci & Tech

Jul 2004 - Mar 2006 (1 year 8 months)

Led educational programs for students and parents, overseeing a renovation project for the planetarium. Coordinated with tech providers and contractors to enhance museum capabilities.

Project Management Team Leadership Community Engagement Curriculum Development Event Coordination Public Speaking

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Bachelor of Science, Information Technology

2000 - 2004

Grade: 3.0 GPA

Activities and societies: Dean’s List

Focus on Information Technology and computer engineering for experimental media; created real-time video software for remote collaboration; curated series of immersive dome concerts.