Melissa Casburn has been a member of Portland’s creative class for 20 years, leading human-centered research and experience design for local digital agencies and software companies, and volunteering extensively with the regional arts community. She is a seasoned design leader with three decades in tech. Skilled in design strategy, systems thinking, and creating order in chaos, she serves as the Head of Innovation & Experience at Coforma, addressing human needs through thoughtfully designed products and services.

Past roles include Senior Director of User Experience for Puppet, a software configuration automation tool company, and Board President for the Portland Lesbian Choir. Melissa co-founded SOAK, the Portland Regional Burn, and produced the event for several years. She holds a BA in Clothing & Textile Design and an MBA from University of Oregon, and is pursuing a certificate in Surface Design from Otis College of Art & Design.