Millie graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition. With an interest in assessing the needs of and serving Oklahomans, she has continued her education in related subjects, such as sociology, psychology and gerontology.

Carpenter has been a Child Welfare (CW) worker, CW supervisor, CW field liaison and legislative liaison for OKDHS and assisted Children and Family Services Division and Developmental Disabilities Services Division staffs in policy making. Most recently, she has been involved in the planning phase for an Enterprise System through the MOSAIC Project, with a focus on strategic readiness and client outcomes. 

Carpenter joined the Office of Planning, Research and Statistics staff in June 2008. Her duties include assisting OKDHS divisions in tracking critical success factors and promoting and coordinating strategic planning.