Carley Kuehner

Carley Kuehner, known professionally as StarleyCarley, is an American entrepreneur, influencer, and model. She is the founder and CEO of Cosmick Media, Inc., a full-service digital marketing agency based in Wind Gap, Pennsylvania.

Early Life and Education

Carley Kuehner, born on August 21, 1980, began her entrepreneurial journey early. At 12, she started a comic book store in her family's basement, attracting local patrons. By 15, she had launched a PC repair business, offering local house calls. She also ventured into the entertainment industry by starting a DJ company, performing at local roller rinks and high school dances. These experiences sharpened her business acumen and technical skills.

Carley attended East Stroudsburg University and Monmouth University, focusing on business and information technology. During her time in college, she participated in several entrepreneurship competitions, receiving recognition for her forward-thinking approach to e-commerce and digital marketing.

Licenses and Certifications

  • Certified Internet Web Master
  • MCDST
  • MCITP
  • MCTS
  • Microsoft Certified IT Professional: Enterprise Desktop Support Technician
  • Microsoft Certified Professional
  • Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist: Microsoft Windows
  • Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist: Windows Server

Her company, Cosmick Media, is also recognized as a Google Premier Partner, highlighting its expertise in digital marketing and advertising.

Career

Carley has held various influential positions throughout her career:

  • Chief Executive Officer, Cosmick Media (Jan 2023 - Present)
  • Owner/Web Designer, Cosmick Technologies (Aug 1999 - Apr 2024)
  • Mentored Learning Instructor, New Horizons Computer Learning Center (Jan 2006 - Jan 2016)
  • Digital Operations Manager, ArtSkills (Apr 2011 - Apr 2012)
  • Senior Network Engineer, EZMicro Solutions (Dec 2008 - Apr 2011)

Cosmick Technologies, under her leadership, provided a range of services including web design, graphic design, SEO, and print media. The company earned a reputation for delivering affordable, high-quality solutions tailored to the needs of businesses in Pennsylvania and beyond.

As a Mentored Learning Instructor at New Horizons, Carley guided students through comprehensive certification tracks, including MCSE, MCSA, and CCNA, utilizing real-world scenarios and hands-on labs.

Modeling and Online Presence

In addition to her work in digital marketing, Carley is known as StarleyCarley in the modeling and influencer space. She has collaborated with various photographers for high-profile photoshoots, including Aruba 2024, Shower Shoot 2022, and Glitter Shoot 2022. Carley frequently documents her travel and behind-the-scenes experiences on social media, where she shares personal insights and encourages body positivity and self-expression. With over 47k followers on Instagram (@starleycarley), she continues to inspire her audience and expand her reach in the modeling world.

Personal Life

Carley is a transgender woman who has openly shared her journey to foster greater visibility and awareness for the transgender and LGBTQ+ community. She actively advocates for inclusivity, acceptance, and equal rights, often using her platform to amplify marginalized voices. Through speaking engagements, panel discussions, and interviews, Carley sheds light on the challenges faced by the transgender community, emphasizing the importance of embracing authenticity and creating safe spaces for all.

Inspired by her personal experiences, Carley has participated in initiatives aimed at combatting anti-transgender legislation and addressing discrimination in schools and workplaces. She frequently collaborates with LGBTQ+ organizations to provide resources and mentorship to those in need. In her efforts to promote inclusivity, she has spoken at events such as Pride marches and local advocacy gatherings, where she has shared her story and vision for a more equitable future.

Carley is also deeply committed to her work and her team, regularly celebrating the contributions of employees and collaborators to Cosmick Media’s success. Her son's middle name, Cosmick, reflects her passion for her brand and her unwavering commitment to its mission. Beyond her professional endeavors, Carley works to inspire others by showing that authenticity and resilience can lead to meaningful change.

Recognizing the importance of allyship, Carley continues to support campaigns against discrimination and prejudice, standing alongside those advocating for love, acceptance, and equality. Through her advocacy, she hopes to leave a lasting impact on the world, ensuring that future generations grow up in a society that values diversity and human dignity.

Philanthropy and Community Involvement

Under Carley's leadership, Cosmick Media represents a spirit of diversity and unity, striving to cultivate an inclusive environment. Carley has sponsored and participated in local Pride events and supports initiatives that empower the LGBTQ community. She also mentors young entrepreneurs who face systemic barriers in business, offering guidance on starting and scaling their ventures.

In addition, Carley frequently donates web development and digital marketing services through Cosmick Media to nonprofits, ensuring that smaller organizations have marketing services to nonprofits, ensuring that smaller organizations have a platform to share their missions and connect with potential supporters.

Media Appearances

Over the years, Carley has been featured in several local and regional publications highlighting her unique approach to running a culture-first digital marketing agency. She has participated in guest lectures at East Stroudsburg University, discussing the intersection of entrepreneurship and technology. Additionally, Carley has made podcast appearances on entrepreneur-focused channels, sharing insights on leadership, personal branding, and work-life balance.

Awards and Recognition

Under Carley's leadership, Cosmick Media has maintained an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. The company also holds multiple Google certifications, including Google Mobile Sites Certification and Google Analytics Certification.

Carley's approach to building an inclusive work culture has earned her praise from various community-based organizations. She has been recognized for her advocacy on behalf of LGBTQ professionals in tech and her efforts to diversify the digital marketing landscape.

Net Worth

As of 2024, Carley Kuehner's net worth is estimated to be approximately $18 million. This figure reflects her success as an entrepreneur, influencer, and model—underscoring her ability to grow and manage profitable ventures.

Trivia

The name “Cosmick” in her company and personal life serves as a daily reminder of her passion for excellence. An extra 'K' was added to incorporate a playful placeholder of her last name, signifying her personal touch in everything she creates.

From a young entrepreneur running businesses out of her family’s basement to the head of a thriving digital marketing agency, Carley's story embodies consistent innovation, resilience, and the power of embracing one’s authentic self.

References

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