Tawnee Buckingham’s career journey has taken her around the world, from aerospace engineering to supply chain leadership. Along the way, she discovered a love for creating spaces that feel like home, which led her to pursue interior design at Heritage School of Interior Design. Today, Tawnee is building her dream career, combining creativity, technical skill, and a passion for thoughtful design. We are excited to share her journey with you!
1. Where are you from and what was your career path prior to pursing Interior Design?
I’m originally from El Paso, Texas, and studied Aerospace Engineering at the University of Texas in Austin. After graduation, my career took me into the Oil and Gas industry, where I worked as a drilling engineer, recruiting representative, and later spent many years in Supply Chain management. My work took me all over the world. After about 15 years abroad, my husband and I decided to settle down with our kids near family in the Pacific Northwest.
2. What inspired you to pursue interior design as your career?
After years in Supply Chain leadership, I realized the corporate world didn’t feel fulfilling to me. I missed hands-on, technical work but wanted to combine that with creativity and independence. I also wanted to do something that made a positive impact on people’s lives. I started reflecting on how much joy I found in turning each new house into a home every time we moved. That’s when I began exploring different industries and discovered Heritage School of Interior Design. It felt like the perfect fit.
3. What challenges have you overcome to get where you are today?
Two of my biggest challenges and now greatest assets have been learning to work in very diverse environments and managing myself effectively under high-pressure situations. Both experiences taught me adaptability, patience, and confidence, which continue to serve me well as I transition into this new creative field.
4. How would you describe your experience at HSID and how did it prepare you for a design career?
I think the pace of Fundamentals closely reflected real-world expectations. Many people imagine they can focus on a single project for a long time, but in reality you are balancing multiple tasks and making decisions quickly. The school also does a great job of showing that being a designer involves much more than creativity and beauty. It includes important behind-the-scenes work that’s essential to running a successful design business!
5. What design projects or roles are you currently working on?
I currently have a client building their custom forever home. We are working on finish specifications for their surfaces and lighting. I’m very excited for their finished home. It will be a beautiful balance of feminine and masculine elements with interesting rooms and statement design pieces. From a gorgeous mosaic-tiled entry to a custom wine cellar with a cask ceiling, the Howard Home will be a modern showpiece.
6. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Never stop learning because the world is always evolving.
7. Are there any accomplishments or proud moments you’d like to share?
While I’m still early in my post-graduation career, I’m honored to be the lead designer with Cornerstone Construction Services and All Surfaces. This opportunity has given my career a strong start, and I’m already using both my education from HSID and my previous career experience every day. Thankful and elated don’t even begin to describe this moment in my career!
8. What are your future career goals as an interior designer?
My long-term goals include starting my own product lines, likely in furniture or textiles. I want to continue finding new creative outlets, and I may return to school to work on my Architectural Engineering degree.
Tawnee’s journey shows that it’s never too late to pursue a career that brings purpose and creativity together. If her story inspires you, explore more Student Success Stories or learn how Heritage School of Interior Design in Portland can help you start your own path in design!