Human-centered.
Bringing the “delight” to design is all about seeing things from the user’s perspective- it’s what I love the most about design. I enjoy uncovering the constellations of factors that make up an individual’s world view and needs.
Curious.
Before I studied Industrial Design, I studied Criminal Justice. This usually raises a few eyebrows; I blame Mariska Hargitay for inspiring me to be a detective, but I digress. I apply an analytical approach to both finding and solving problems, but I never shy away from using unusual inspiration or telling a meaningful narrative with my products. The synthesis of imagination and practicality is where the magic happens.
Adaptable.
One of my first design mentors said to me, “Always have a plan B. And a plan C…” I always focus on staying ahead of the game to manage outcomes and expectations. By constantly re-evaluating the short and long term goals of a project, I reach design solutions that I can be confident are the best representation of what is truly possible.
Collaborative.
While I love time to explore my ideas independently, what I enjoy most is working on a team- especially a cross-functional one. I’ve had opportunities to collaborate with a variety of specialties, from mechanical and electrical engineers to architects and designers to branding and marketing professionals. I love being able to share a design perspective with a non-design audience
Enthusiastic.
I thrive in enthusiastic teams- the people who aren’t afraid to “geek-out” about an idea that they’ve been kicking around or a subject they are passionate about. I don’t have an autopilot function- I am always digging deeper to find the little nuggets of inspiration or humanity in a product that makes it meaningful or purposeful.
Candid.
I seek environments where members of a team are encouraged to approach design problems from an honest perspective- frequently re-assessing progress and direction of a project and addressing weaknesses (and often, new opportunities) as they are uncovered. I am always seeking other perspectives, and I'm always happy to share my own.