Leading a design learning program that scaled to 30+ designers at Slalom Build

How It Began

How do we stay accountable to our own growth?

As a senior experience designer, I found myself and my peers often reflecting on areas we wanted to improve: facilitation, coding, prototyping, but struggling to make space for it amidst fast-paced consulting work. It became clear that many of us were trying to grow in isolation. So I started thinking, what would it look like if we just did that together? We could hold each other accountable, learn from each other's work, and actually stay inspired.

From a shared idea to a designer learning community

My colleague Ryan and I decided to just do something about it. We put together a quick survey through Slalom's design announcements to see if others felt the same. We got a 20% response rate, around 25 designers, and the theme was clear: people wanted to explore how AI could support their workflows.

Designing for flexibility in a fast-paced consulting environment

Rather than over-engineering the format, we kept it lightweight and adaptable. Our first AI-focused session brought together 8 designers. Aware of the challenges in coordinating across time zones and client demands, we structured the sessions to be flexible and low-lift. To kick things off, Ryan and I organized a quick, focused workshop to guide the conversation in our first session.

The role of facilitators in driving productive sessions

Recognizing the importance of structured guidance in collaborative settings, we incorporated facilitators into our sessions. Each session was led by a volunteer facilitator who guided discussions, encouraged participation, and ensured that sessions remained productive and inclusive.

Outcomes

Our inaugural session on AI attracted eight designers and set the tone for future meetings. As word spread, participation grew, with over 30 designers engaging in subsequent sessions. The inclusion of facilitators not only enriched the learning experience but also empowered team members to take on leadership roles, further strengthening our design community.