I am a product designer with a background in education, web, and industrial design. I value the challenges and choices that must be considered to create inclusive design. I enjoy working through issues that will ultimately help people. I like helping people- it’s what I signed up for when I decided to become a designer.

I’m attracted to the subjects of art, design, organization, and education; it’s why I have dabbled in so many different careers. Educators along with industrial and web designers have a throughline or share transferable skills like planning, researching, documenting, and compassionate communication. Each career change has been an opportunity for personal and professional growth and learning.

I built my knowledge of web design independent of my Industrial Design education through projects as a web design assistant and consultant for Sirius Media. Subsequently, I started Avocational Design and have been designing brand elements, websites, and social media campaigns for small businesses and nonprofits since 2016.

I wanted to learn more about user experience design, so I got involved with CHIFOO (Computer-Human Interaction Forum of Oregon). For a while, I spent time working on CHIFOO’s board as their Communication Chair and Webmaster. It was great – I met with and listened to designers like Mike Monterio and Genevieve Bell while deepening my understanding of user experience design.

Last year I decided I wanted to continue my professional development and deepen my understanding of UI/UX design. So now, I am a proud graduate of Designlab’s UX Academy. I am excited to see what new adventures await me in the future.

When I am not working, I love playing games with friends, camping in the quiet, and taking long hikes and bike rides. And any time I can hang out with or pat a dog, I am there.

Also, I have been getting into the following podcasts lately:

You’re Wrong About
99% Invisible
Levar Burton Reads
Maintenance Phase
Shut Up & Sit Down

I am ready for a new challenge with a team of designers pushing the envelope for simple, inclusive design. I love talking to people about pragmatic design and research to suss out possible user-centered design solutions with positive impacts. If that is something you enjoy too, then reach out to connect or find me on my LinkedIn.