Tate thrives in spaces of ambiguity, where there are challenging problems to solve. She recently led a product invention and validation project for an international fitness chain, looking for viable opportunities to engage people who don’t like going to the gym. Through design sprints, her team created an experimental lab with a few personal trainers, a gym location, and plenty of technology. The team and client learned a lot—and had a lot of fun.
Being a creative person allows Tate to bring a different perspective, help clients connect the dots, and see patterns that drive new ideas. Her love for art and fascination with technology stems from her childhood with a single mom who was a researcher in a lab studying cancer. Tate spent a lot of time with her at work. With science and scientific methods part of her every day, she naturally gravitated toward creating captivating and ultra-clear visuals to communicate complex concepts, as well as using technology to solve human problems.
She joined GoKart Labs, now part of West Monroe, in 2012 and was director of UX and design. She discovered her calling for design and interactive media at Minneapolis College of Art and Design.
What makes Tate different
She takes inspiration from traveling the world, learning languages, giving back to communities, and fearlessly exploring life. Skating for the Minnesota RollerGirls for eight years, she learned how to be a better team player, perform under pressure, and deal with different personality types. Spending time with horses helps her decompress and she is currently work with her horse to learn dressage and jumping.
Where Tate makes an impact
She is active in fostering a strong professional community: For example, hosting a design event for the Minneapolis Interactive Marketing Association, leading a design camp workshop for AIGA Minnesota, and serving as a creative panelist for Teach for America. She also volunteered with and served on the board of a nonprofit, Breanna’s Gift, that brings art programs to children undergoing cancer treatment.