Katie Butler works on all aspects of the project from the design to the technical and project management
What degrees/certifications do you have?
Bachelor of Interior Design, 2020 - Texas Tech University, NCIDQ, Registered Interior
Designer, Fitwel Ambassador, IIDA
What is your current job title, and what does that role entail?
I am an Interior Designer in the Workplace Interiors studio at Gensler's Dallas office.
I work on all workplace project types, from landlord repositioning services to campus
headquarters, to small tenant finish-outs. Typically, I am able to work on projects
all the way through, taking on both design and technical roles from the initial interview
through test-fitting, schematic, design development, construction documentation, and
into CA. Gensler gives young designers the opportunity to learn all aspects of working
on a project and then empowers them to choose an area to specialize in, such as design,
technical, or project management, when they are ready to do so.
What inspired you to get a degree in Interior Design from Texas Tech University?
Though I initially thought I wanted to be an Architect, upon researching university
programs, I found that Interior Design was really more of what I was looking for.
When I found out that Texas Tech offered an exemplary ID program with the possibility
of an Architecture minor, I had to come and visit! I fell in love with Lubbock and
the Texas Tech campus and knew it was the right fit for me.
How did the ID program prepare you for your current role?
The ID program at Texas Tech helped prepare me in a number of ways. Students finish
with a diverse portfolio of project types, perfect for students to show their skills
to firms of all types. Professors encouraged me to jumpstart my licensure exams while
in school and helped me to understand the basics of both design and documentation.
The program also offers wonderful and active student chapters of both of the large
professional organizations, IIDA and ASID, and there is always a way to connect with
professionals in the industry.
Would you recommend this program to current and prospective students? If so, why?
The people in the Department of Design make the program what it is. The professors
and your classmates really become your family. The career plan ensures small classes
where students are given the attention and resources needed to succeed. Projects are
diverse and realistic, and deadlines though challenging, set students up for reality
in their careers. My professors really helped me when it came time to look for Internships
and jobs, and many of the relationships made through this department are ongoing in
my career today.