After graduating from MRU in 2012 with a degree in Information Design as well as a Certificate in International Communication, I went on to complete a Post-Graduate Certificate in Interdisciplinary Design Strategy at the Institute Without Boundaries (IwB) in Toronto. This program follows the principles of human-centred design as students tackle some of the toughest real-life design challenges that our society faces, dubbed ‘wicked problems’. I learned principles of urban planning, environmental design, product design and service design at the IwB, all while working with the City of Dublin to help them understand their internal processes and their relationship with the residents of Dublin, with the ultimate goal of doing more with less.
My focuses have been online learning environments and design thinking for innovation.
In the past five years as a freelance information designer and strategist, much of my ongoing work has involved data visualization and systems mapping for large organizations such as Calgary Arts Development, the Calgary Stampede, Tourism Calgary, Travel Alberta, Alberta Health Services, and BC Transit. The work I have done for these organizations has helped employees understand internal processes and structures, told engaging stories and communicated organizational goals with stakeholders, as well as illuminated areas where resources should be directed for maximum impact. I’ve also worked with many local small businesses and organizations primarily in the sustainability and arts sectors, to develop impactful and flexible visual identity systems and supporting materials.