Julie Watkins

Profile

I am dedicated to advancing interior design education through innovative curriculum development, technology integration, and student mentorship. With more than a decade of experience teaching and developing programs in both secondary and higher education, I strive to prepare students to thrive in an ever-evolving design profession. My work includes spearheading the creation of statewide curricula for North Carolina’s high school interior design courses, teaching a variety of design studios and technology classes at Meredith College, and advising student teams who have achieved national recognition through FCCLA competitions. I actively present at national conferences on topics such as dormitory design and creative teaching strategies, and I enjoy collaborating with colleagues on educational projects that improve student outcomes.

My teaching incorporates industry-standard tools like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp, and I emphasize hands-on learning and real-world application in course assignments. As an NCIDQ-certified interior Designer and Revit-certified professional, I draw on both professional and academic expertise to mentor the next generation of interior designers. I am passionate about fostering creativity, critical thinking, and professional growth in my students, and I value opportunities to connect classroom learning with the
demands of today’s design industry.