Design education, aiding new designers, and prioritising accessibility: we talk to Laura Carrick

“Design educates, informs, influences, delights, and sometimes even manipulates us,” Laura Carrick, the Global Head of Marketing and Communications at Shillington Education, tells us. In this in-depth chat, the creative strategic specialist discusses her journey in the creative sectors and what attracted her to design education. Sharing her observations in the design industry, she offers insights on various important topics, including the impact of AI tools, the significance of mentorship, the need for accessibility and diversity in design education, and the evolution of remote learning. With rapid technological changes shaping the industry, what should emerging creatives consider? And how can experienced designers lend a hand? Carrick shares her thoughts. PT: Hi Laura, how are you? LC: Hi Poppy, I’m great, thank you. Winter is descending upon us in New York and the city is starting to feel festive. I grew up in Australia, so the notion that it is cold over the holiday period is still very new to me. Also, our full-time and part-time students are heading into their portfolio period before they all graduate as fresh graphic designers – so the energy on campus is buzzing.