Member Spotlight: Katie

Every design career has an origin story—often shaped as much by people and community as by education or talent. For Katie Branning, her journey with the International Interior Design Association began early and grew into a foundation that continues to support her career, leadership, and sense of belonging in the industry.

A Welcoming Start

Katie first connected with IIDA as a student at the University of North Texas. Through the campus student organization, IDSA, IIDA felt like a natural extension of the design education experience. Encouraged by both peers and a professor—especially as a nontraditional student entering design as a second career—she quickly saw IIDA as a gateway into the profession.

That early introduction wasn’t just about networking; it revealed something bigger. The openness and enthusiasm of the community showed her that the design industry could be both welcoming and supportive from the very beginning.

Opening Doors and Building Confidence

Throughout her career, the IIDA Texas Oklahoma Chapter has played a pivotal role in shaping opportunities. As a student, events like SHIFT, mentoring programs, and chapter gatherings connected Katie with reps and firms that later turned into internships, interviews, job offers, and long-term professional relationships.

Even during moments of uncertainty—like navigating the industry slowdown during COVID while attending graduate school—IIDA remained a constant. The network she built allowed her to stay connected both locally and in Texas, making her transition back into the profession seamless. When she returned to practice, she reentered with confidence, already familiar with industry players, products, and firms, giving her a meaningful head start.

A Moment That Changed Everything

One of the most influential moments in Katie’s IIDA journey happened during SHIFT, when she attended a keynote and tour led by designer Zach Weihric. His discussion of concept development and storytelling—particularly how his team tied interior environments to emotional experiences—left a lasting impression.

That moment reshaped how Katie approaches design. It set a standard for intentional storytelling and continues to guide her work today. It’s a lesson she now shares with students she mentors, reminding them to look deeper and uncover the narrative behind every project.

Mentors, Collaborators, and Lifelong Friends

For Katie, IIDA isn’t just a professional network—it’s a personal one. One of her earliest and most meaningful connections was with Sara Ables whom she met as a student. Over time, that relationship evolved into mentorship, friendship, and eventually shared leadership on the IIDA Texas Oklahoma Chapter Board.

She’s also built lasting friendships with a close-knit group of industry representatives—people she sees outside of work, turns to for advice, and connects with students looking to find their footing. These relationships have become a steady support system rooted in trust and shared experience.

What Community Really Means

To Katie, community in the design industry means never having to navigate it alone. It’s shared knowledge, shared opportunity, and mutual support. IIDA creates the space for those genuine connections—through workshops, volunteer roles, and even casual conversations at events—making networking feel approachable rather than transactional.

Sometimes, it’s as simple as recognizing a familiar face at an event or sharing the common thread of IIDA on a name badge. Those moments reinforce a sense of belonging that extends far beyond any single city or chapter.