Beginning with building models and moving into the Design Build program at Louisiana Tech, she developed a strong passion for designing iteratively through different methods and appreciating the alternative perspectives the process provides. She is a hands-on designer, focused on material investigation and exploration and open to the possibilities of design-build and design-fabricate, whether parametricism and 3D printing or welding and pouring concrete.

Whitley is drawn to smaller-scale projects, with their spiritual or intimate elements, but also values the big-picture impact of urban design and city integration. She seeks out authenticity and loves to travel, get outdoors, and fish. At home, she enjoys cooking, grilling, and other culinary adventures. She spends time with her boyfriend and two cats and gardens when she can.