Kietra Nelson

“The best we ever ran was with
all women.”

— Kietra Nelson

Can you share the journey that led you to become a designer?

Kietra’s path to becoming a designer began in high school, where she was first introduced to graphic design. Although she initially pursued interior design and earned an associate’s degree in the field, her interest in graphic design never faded. Inspired in part by her brother and her own creative instincts, she moved to Bozeman in 1996, drawn by the opportunity for change and the growing design community.

After arriving, Kietra began working at Montana Expressions, gradually taking on graphic design projects. Wanting to deepen her skills, she enrolled in the graphic design program at Montana State University, where she continued building both her experience and her professional network. During this time, connections with local designers, including Mike Ray, helped open the door to valuable early projects and opportunities.

After graduating in 2000, Kietra continued building her portfolio through freelance work. A major turning point came when designer Mike Hammond offered her his client base if she would continue serving those clients. The opportunity allowed her to establish her own firm, Classic Ink, and begin building the design practice she runs today.

What is it like to be a woman designer in Bozeman?

When asked about the challenges of being a woman in design, Kietra Nelson’s response was: “I don’t think I looked at it that way.” Throughout her career in Bozeman, Kietra focused less on gender differences and more on her abilities, confidence, and the quality of her work. She credits her strong sense of self-belief and communication skills for helping her navigate professional relationships and opportunities.

While others occasionally suggested she pursue opportunities specifically aimed at women in business, Kietra remained focused on building her work and relationships within the design community. “I just felt like I was another bozo on the bus,” she says, describing how she viewed herself as simply another professional doing the work.

At the same time, Kietra speaks highly of the collaborative energy she experienced working with other women. Reflecting on past teams, she notes, “The best we ever ran was with all women,” highlighting the strong sense of teamwork and support she found in those environments.

Unexpected Opportunities.

One of the most pivotal moments in Kietra’s career came shortly after she graduated from Montana State University. While she had been building experience through freelance work, breaking fully into the design industry was still challenging. That changed when local designer Mike Hammond offered her an unexpected opportunity.

Recognizing her potential, Hammond trusted Kietra with his book of clients, asking only that she continue to care for them and maintain the relationships he had built. “He gave me his book of business, if I would take care of the clients,” she recalls.

The gesture marked a significant turning point, allowing her to establish her own studio, Classic Ink, and begin building a career on her own terms. It also reflects the collaborative nature of Bozeman’s design community, where trust, mentorship, and shared opportunity can play a meaningful role in shaping a designer’s path.

What advice would you give to young women entering design?

Confidence, persistence, and strong relationships are at the center of Kietra’s advice for young women entering design. She believes that trusting your abilities and communicating clearly with clients and collaborators can make a significant difference when building a career in the field.

Early in her career, opportunities did not come easily, but continuing to take on projects, build a portfolio, and grow her network helped open new doors over time. For Kietra, success in design is not just about talent, but also about consistency, professionalism, and showing up ready to do the work.

She encourages young designers to believe in themselves and the skills they bring to the table. Confidence, she believes, can often be the factor that allows designers to create opportunities and build lasting careers.

“Keep building relationships.”