Karlie Sikorski
Karlie Sikorski is a UX Design and Human Factors Engineer and a recent Honors Information Systems graduate from the University of Alabama in Huntsville, where she also minored in User Experience Design and Human Factors Psychology. Currently a defense engineer intern at SAIC and pursuing her master’s degree in Information Systems, Karlie is passionate about creating intuitive and effective user experiences across both defense technology and everyday applications. Her experience at SAIC has strengthened her ability to translate complex technical requirements into user-centered solutions, while her leadership roles, including Vice President of Programs for Delta Zeta and College of Business Ambassador, have allowed her to design engaging experiences for diverse audiences.
Throughout her academic and professional career, Karlie has applied user-centered design principles to a variety of impactful projects. She co-developed the Nature Notes app, conducted usability testing for the High Tech High website, and led a gamified workplace training strategy for her Honors Thesis. Her innovative approach has been recognized in competitions such as the College of Business 24-Hour Innovation Challenge, where her team placed first, and the SAIC Joint Concept Challenge, where her AI-driven solutions earned second place. Karlie also gained a strong foundation in technology and problem-solving early on at Roane State Community College, where she earned an Honors Associate of Science alongside her high school diploma.
Committed to bridging the gap between technology and human experience, Karlie continues to advance her expertise in coding, UX design, and systems analysis through professional projects, development initiatives, and research. She is a proactive advocate for inclusive design and accessibility, striving to create solutions that simplify complex processes and enhance how people interact with information and their environments. Outside of her professional work, Karlie actively participates in organizations such as Beta Gamma Sigma and Women in Business and Leadership, reflecting her dedication to excellence, ethical leadership, and fostering opportunities for others.
• Adobe Photoshop: Graphics Tools, Web Design, and AI
• Azure Data Fundamentals: Structured Data
• The University of Alabama in Huntsville-MA
• The University of Alabama in Huntsville-BA
• Top 20 of 2025
• 24 Hour Innovation Challenge
• Beta Gamma Sigma
• Women in Business and Leadership
• Delta Zeta
• Women in Tech
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to curiosity, perseverance, and taking initiative. From being homeschooled to earning my Bachelor’s in Information Systems at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, I’ve embraced every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. Designing a custom Human Factors Engineering program and interning at SAIC taught me how to combine technical skills with creativity to solve real-world problems. Leading a team to win a Boeing-sponsored AI competition reinforced that collaboration, preparation, and passion are at the heart of my success.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women entering this industry to prioritize building genuine connections. Networking isn’t just about advancing professionally—it’s about learning, sharing ideas, and growing together. Seeking mentorship, collaborating with peers, and supporting other women can open doors and help everyone succeed.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field is creating and shaping paths where they don’t yet exist. For example, when UAH didn’t offer a formal Human Factors Engineering track, I worked with faculty to build one, which required persistence and advocacy. In the lab, earning credibility as a young woman means learning quickly, delivering precise work, and continuously proving your value—challenges that also create opportunities to grow and lead.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both work and life are service, kindness, and support. Whether through organizations like Beta Gamma Sigma, Women in Tech, and Delta Zeta, or volunteering with international students at UAH, I focus on giving back and helping others navigate challenges. Leadership, to me, is about making people feel valued and supported, and I strive to bring that principle into every project and community I’m part of.