Nice to meet you!
Hi, I'm Makayla. I'm from Arizona, and I love the desert. My family is the center of my life: my husband, my parents, my brothers. My faith grounds me and consistently shapes how I think about and treat people. I care about kindness, and seeing people as people: noticing the strengths each person brings. With AI everywhere, I think that matters more, not less. I use AI every day, and I still want the work to stay real, human, and aimed at the bigger picture.
How I ended up in UX
Painting was the only subject in high school I was truly passionate about. I was starting a graphic design associate's at community college when my dad needed a UX designer for his small software company, and that's how I accidentally ended up here. It turned out to be the right split: art stayed a hobby, and the same strength went to work.
Where I came from
I designed my first real SaaS product at ResponsiBid from 2020 to early 2024, alongside an associate's degree at Central Arizona College and graphic design at BYU–Idaho. Then I took a year and a half away from work to serve as a full-time volunteer for my church.
When I came home, I finished my BFA and joined SalesAi as a UX/UI intern. I then worked there as an Associate UX/UI Designer from February to October 2026.
Where I’d like to go
Smaller companies, important problems, and teammates I can work closely with. And most importantly, people I can keep learning from.
Off the clock
I love painting or just creating in general. I like to try new things. From charcoal to paint to embroidery, and small cards to full murals.
I love to spend time with my family. I love playing games, sharing meals, and watching shows with them.
I love to be outside (when it’s not ridiculously hot outside) and see the beauty in nature.