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    Karla Cole

    Product Designer at Instagram

    Karla Mickens, also known as Karla Mickens Cole, is a prominent Product Designer and Brand Lead at The Browser Company, where she plays a key role in developing the Arc browser, a new approach to web browsing that emphasizes personalization and user experience. Her design philosophy focuses on creating intuitive and engaging products that enhance the way people interact with technology.13

    Professional Background

    • Current Position: Product Designer & Brand Lead at The Browser Company
    • Previous Experience:
      • Product Designer at Facebook and Instagram
      • Product Designer at The New York Times
      • Designer at Big Spaceship
      • Graphic Designer at McKinney

    Karla graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2009.24 She has worked in various capacities within the tech industry, contributing to significant projects at major organizations before joining The Browser Company.

    Design Philosophy and Contributions

    Karla is known for her commitment to thoughtful design that considers not just aesthetics but also user experience. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and diversity in tech, advocating for the inclusion of varied perspectives in design processes. Her work often draws inspiration from outside the tech industry, aiming to create products that resonate on a personal level with users.134

    Personal Insights

    Karla has expressed a preference for remaining in individual contributor roles rather than moving into management, finding fulfillment in direct design work and mentoring others. She values financial literacy and aims to build generational wealth while navigating her career in tech.14

    Karla Mickens continues to influence the field of product design significantly, particularly through her innovative work at The Browser Company, where she helps shape the future of web interaction.

    Highlights

    Jun 26 · figma.com
    Can we reach beyond the echo chamber? | Figma Blog
    Can we reach beyond the echo chamber? | Figma Blog

    Related Questions

    What inspired Karla Mickens to transition into product design?
    How does Karla Mickens incorporate her diverse design experience into her current role?
    What are some unique challenges Karla Mickens has faced in her design career?
    How does Karla Mickens approach mentoring and career advice in tech?
    What does Karla Mickens think about the role of titles in the design industry?
    Karla Cole
    Karla Cole, photo 1
    Karla Cole, photo 2
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    Experience

    Product Designer at Instagram (January 2020 - Present)
    Product Designer at Facebook (April 2016 - Present), Product Designer at The New York Times (April 2014 - April 2016), Designer at Big Spaceship (August 2011 - September 2013), Graphic Designer at McKinney (September 2009 - August 2011)

    Education

    BFA in Graphic Design from Virginia Commonwealth University (2005 - 2009)

    Location

    New York, New York, United States