Trackflow is an independent graphic design practice of Tom Bates.
Bates is a senior graphic designer for the branding agency, Fresh Produce located in downtown Sioux Falls.
He graduated with a BFA in Graphic Design and Studio Arts minor from South Dakota State University (SDSU). As a student, his work has been featured at the National Student Showcase in Dallas, Texas, and was the recipient of the Anita Moore Scholarship in Art.
During the summer of 2019, he was invited to participate in the International Integrated Design Camp (IIDC), in Seoul, South Korea, as one of 100 young engineers, architects, and product and graphic designers from around the world to work on design solutions to make cities more sustainable. This camp was hosted by the Korea Institute of Design Promotion (KIDP).
His work has won gold, silver, and Best of Show awards for the American Advertising Federation (AAF) at the regional, district, and national levels.
In 2023 his work was recognized by the Type Directors Club and was a Communication Arts shortlist finalist for his work for Ipso Gallery.
Bates has also received recognition from the city of Sioux Falls by being listed on the inaugural Sioux Falls Business Journal 30 Under 30 list.
Tom is an active member of the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) and was one of six contestants for the Command X competition during the virtual 2020 national AIGA Conference (originally to be hosted in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.)
Bates currently sits on the AIGA South Dakota chapter board as the student liaison.
During the spring months, Bates is an assistant sprints and hurdle coach for the Sioux Falls Washington High School Track and Field team.
