As Practice Manager, Karen is an inspirational leader to her colleagues. Her background in industrial design allows her to provide guidance on all projects, ensuring they are completed with a balance of aesthetic, functional, and commercial requirements.

Karen’s career commenced at Kennovations, working alongside Tilt’s Managing Director, Tim Phillips, on more traditional industrial design projects. In 2014, Tim saw a unique gap in the market – an opportunity for traditional industrial designer skill sets to support the delivery of integrated architectural and artistic features – Karen’s dedication to the formation of Tilt and Tim’s vision has been a significant factor in Tilt’s success.

“The journey has been one of constant evolution and learnings. As the business has grown and developed in different project categories, sizes, business structures, project locations, etc., the scope of my role has also changed to suit the business needs.”

Karen studied Industrial Design at WSU and has worked with Tilt on key projects such as the Heliostat at One Central Park, the intricate and automated Sun Shading System at UTS Central Reading Rooms, and the Automated Ceiling Panels at an international luxury shopping centre in Beijing, China.

Karen now manages the 30+ multi-disciplinary team – empowering them and problem-solving with them to ensure our client’s design intent is achieved while balancing functionality, durability, and materiality concerns – successfully delivering each unique project.

Karen has also played a pivotal role in developing and delivering management systems to accommodate the company’s growth across project management, development, accounting, and marketing.

What has been a meaningful change for you within the industry?

“Being a woman in construction, I have felt far more confident over the past few years. There is a new level of industry awareness and gender equality, encouraging women in their roles. I really enjoy going on-site in hi-vis and a hard hat working alongside women and men in the industry.”

Outside of Tilt, Karen enjoys time with her family and her Christian community church, serving and learning about her faith.

Tilt thanks Karen for her many years of contribution and congratulates her on 15 years of service within the industry.