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Jessica Bernard

At University Centre South Essex, we empower students to apply their creativity in meaningful and unexpected ways, showing how design can influence industries far beyond traditional creative roles. Jessica’s story highlights how strong foundations, confidence and curiosity can lead to success in even the most technical sectors.

Driving change through design

Jessica Bernard, a BA (Hons) Graphic Design and Illustration graduate (2022), is making a significant impact in the automotive industry—an area not typically associated with creative careers. Her work has recently been recognised with Autocar’s prestigious Drivers of Change: New Talent award, celebrating her contribution to modernising how the industry communicates.

A creative path into a technical industry

Jessica now works as a graphic designer at Keyloop, where her role is focused on transforming complex automotive technology into clear, engaging and accessible visual communication.

“Essentially, I translate complex ideas and technology into clear, compelling designs that engage people, foster trust, and make the automotive sector feel modern.”

Rather than simply creating visuals, Jessica uses design as a strategic tool—helping organisations communicate effectively, connect with audiences and build stronger brand identities.

Jessica Bernard Copy

Her work spans a wide range of outputs, including:

  • Global event branding
  • Internal campaigns and communications
  • Digital platforms such as podcasts
  • Cross-functional design projects across teams

This ability to simplify complexity and humanise technical content has been central to her success.

Recognition and achievement

Winning the Autocar Drivers of Change: New Talent award marks a major milestone in Jessica’s career. It recognises not only her technical and creative ability, but also her impact within an industry where creative roles have traditionally been less visible.

“Being recognised on that level… is something I’ll always see as a defining moment in my journey.”

Her success also reflects the growing importance of design within industries that rely on clear communication and user engagement.

Building confidence through education

Jessica’s journey was shaped strongly by her time at University Centre South Essex. She chose the course for its practical, hands-on approach and its focus on encouraging individuality and experimentation.

The structure of the course mirrored real industry workflows, helping her develop key professional skills such as:

  • Responding to briefs creatively
  • Managing deadlines effectively
  • Presenting ideas with confidence
  • Working collaboratively with others

These experiences helped her transition smoothly into a professional environment where those skills are essential.

The importance of resilience and adaptability

Jessica describes her time at university as a key period for building resilience and confidence.

Working through project-based learning helped her understand how to approach challenges, adapt her ideas and keep progressing. This mindset has been essential in her current role, where she works across different teams and projects, often in fast-paced and evolving environments.

Her willingness to step into new opportunities—even those outside traditional creative spaces—has played a major role in her career success.

Community and creative identity

One of Jessica’s most valued experiences at university was the sense of community within the creative department.

“It was the first place where I truly felt like a designer.”

Being surrounded by like-minded students and supportive tutors helped her develop her creative identity and gain confidence in her abilities.

This sense of belonging and encouragement created a strong foundation that has carried through into her professional life.

Looking ahead

Jessica is focused on continuing to grow within her field, using design as a way to drive engagement, clarity and cultural change.

Her work demonstrates that graphic design is not limited to traditional agency roles. Instead, it can play a vital role in shaping communication, improving understanding and enhancing user experience across a wide range of industries.

Key lessons from Jessica’s journey

  • Design is a powerful tool for solving real-world problems
  • Creativity can thrive in any industry, even highly technical ones
  • Confidence and resilience are essential for growth
  • Treat every project as an opportunity to learn and develop
  • Stay curious and open to unexpected career paths

Jessica’s story is a powerful reminder that your creative skills can take you into industries you might never have considered. By combining technical ability with strategic thinking, you can become a driving force for change.

If Jessica’s journey has inspired you, our Graphic Design and Illustration courses are designed to help you build the skills, confidence and experience needed to succeed in a wide range of industries. Explore your options and take the first step towards your own creative career.