Laura Martin is a Graphic & WordPress Designer in the Communications and Public Engagement department.

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Laura and her family in front of their new home in Washougal.

How long have you worked for ESD 112 and what does your job entail?

I’ve worked here almost three years. I developed and continue to manage the agency website in addition to building WordPress websites for both internal and external clients.

What do you like best about your job?

I love learning new things and there’s never a shortage of programs to learn about at the ESD. I also like the challenge of coming up with creative solutions to a problem.

What do you find most challenging about your job?

I’m constantly juggling projects and tasks to get it all done. There never seems to be enough time in the day!

What do you consider to be your greatest on-the-job skill or asset?

I’m pretty flexible and can switch gears when needed. I’m also really good at seeing the overall picture and how different pieces work together.

Laura’s dogs: Archer and Shadow.

Single? Married? Kids? Pets?

I’m married – we just celebrated 20 years – with 2 boys, Matthew (15) and Mason (12). We have two dogs and two kittens who have finally learned to all get along.

What do you enjoy doing with your free time?

Usually my “free time” is spent taking care of all the family things…but if I were ever to have a day all to myself, I’d spend it sewing. I’m also a knitter, DIYer (we’re finishing an apartment above our garage), love to bake, soak up the sun (when it’s there) and read.

If your coworkers wanted to surprise you with a little treat sometime what should it be?

I’d never pass up chocolate. Or coffee.

What is something that no one would guess about you if they just met you?

I’m a twin!

If you had to choose to live without one of your five senses, which one would you give up and why?

Taste…imagine how skinny I’d be if nothing tasted good!

Laura’s kittens: Bandit and Smokey.

What animal best represents you and why?

I’m learning all about cats now (we’ve never had them before) and I’m thinking I have a pretty similar temperament.

If you could play one instrument you aren’t able to now, what would it be?

I’d love to learn how to play the guitar!

Would you rather live in the city or the woods? Why?

The woods, of course – we just built a house on 5 acres out in the Washougal hills…it’s so quiet and peaceful.

If you could abolish one piece of modern technology, what would it be and why?

As useful as they are, smartphones have taken over. I can’t even memorize a phone number these days.

What did you want to be when you were little?

I remember wanting to be a marine biologist…I loved dolphins.