Michael Blakely, current CEO and operator of Global Sign Systems, Inc. formerly named Acme Neon Sign Company, son of Robert Blakely, grandson of Cassius Clay Blakely, great grandson of Andrew Blakely.
During the 1970 decade, on summer school break, Michael, still a young adolescent, began working at his father’s sign company. Michael received an early education in the electrical and neon sign business, gaining exposure, knowledge, and ultimately expertise in all aspects of the sign industry: construction, fabrication, installation, repair, service, craned operation, shop management, sales and finance management.
Michael had the unique and exceptions opportunity of gaining real life experience and hands on training in every department and all aspects of running electrical sign company.
Through the years Michael’s responsibilities grew, as a young man he began effectively managing the majority of the Acme Neon Sign Company operation.
“Until one is committed there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness, concerning all acts of initiative and creation, there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: That moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence move too. Whatever you can do, or dream you can begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it. Begin it now
In the 1980s decade with the advent of computers, Michael instituted the dawn of a new age bringing computers, automated fabrication, oversized printers and plotters into the Acme Neon design and fabrication operations. Procedures evolved nearly overnight, changing all aspects of artwork, design, letter construction and sign display fabrication.
Sign Design progressed from hand sketches and full size hand drafted patterns to utilizing design and lettering software to create perfect computerize sign designs that could then be sent directly to automated fabrication equipment.
Michael transformed Acme Neon Sign Company from a “mom and pop” operation to a nationally recognized modern age computerized, technological, always evolving, sign company capable of meeting all aspects of comprehensive sign systems.
These technological advancements are in place for one sole purpose: to better meet the needs of our multi location, regional, national and international clients.
“I don’t believe you have to be better than everyone else. I believe you have to be better than you ever thought you could be.” Ken Venturi
Location:
Global Sign Systems, Inc.
12819 South Main Street
Los Angeles, CA 90061
Gold leaf lettering was a true art form requiring real artistic ability and craftsmanship through much skill and practice. Gold Leaf signs began with gold metal pressed into extremely thin sheets of gold foil, adhered to paper backing, cut into desired letter shapes and logos and pressed onto desired surfaces. (Store fronts, windows, walls, wooden or metal signs)
The Acme Neon Institute was a neon trade school subsidized by the United States Government to offer career training to military veterans. The 500 hour course consisted of training in neon tube bending, color gassing, 
Robert attended the Frank Williams Trade School in LA to learn sketch and pattern making. Robert also became a licensed C-45 contractor #240032 in the late 1950s. Roberts Company manufactured Electrical and neon signs, serviced and repaired, provided art and sketch work, sign design and creation, lettering and font styles, sign permit acquisition, sign installations and crane lifting services.
Dad,