Carla was elected to Craigavon Borough Council in 2007, representing the Lurgan area, before stepping down in 2016 to run for the Assembly elections. She worked full-time in the Lurgan DUP Advice Centre, whilst working as a councillor. From a farming background in South Tyrone, she is a business graduate of Ulster University.
During her time as an MLA, Carla sat on the Education Committee and was an All-Party Group member on numerous issues. Carla is a strong advocate for the rights of the unborn and reducing online abuse.
In 2019, Carla won the Upper Bann Election to become its newest MP, subsequently stepping down as an MLA.