User Experience Research and Design is a growing field that draws professionals from a variety of disciplines to become the eyes and voice of the user when developing apps and websites. How do individuals from different backgrounds find the starting point for a career pivot into UX? GA and Hexagon UX are pleased to host a panel of UX Designers and Researchers to share their insights on new trends and opportunities in their field, as well as how they found their footing in the UX world.

• attendees will understand the breadth of careers in the UX field and their key qualities.
• speakers will share the process they went through to land on UX as a career choice, hone their skills, and stay current.
• attendees will become aware of different strategies for breaking into the field, from bootcamps to portfolio building.

Over the last decade, Javi has worked at a variety of tech startups in a range of roles and responsibilities, including: copywriting, content strategy, inbound marketing, product marketing, education and design.

Elisha Dorsey is a creative director & experience designer based in New York City. He has a range of expertise across brand vision, experience design, technology, and product development. Elisha strives for clarity and finds joy in curating compelling design solutions and communications strategies. He has worked on websites, mobile and desktop apps and led integrated creative teams building enterprise platform solutions for several brands like Verizon, Aveeno, Johnson & Johnson, Citigroup, Samsung and many others. Most recent projects include leading user research, experience design strategy, creative direction and client relations for Verizon Retail, Goldman Sachs, Intuit, and even start-up CBD pet brands like Pet Releaf and Jiminy’s through the R/GA Leap Venture Studio.

Nazhin was a graphic designer for ten years before switching career paths to UX -- all stemming as a student in a Skillshare class. Today, she collaborates alongside product managers and engineers to build web applications for government clients. In 2020, she volunteered with the product user research team for a COVID-19 anonymous exposure app. Nazhin has worked in various industries -- entertainment, academia, nonprofit, associations -- including an L.A.-based startup app recognizing street art.

Hexagon is a non-profit aimed to empower and support womxn and non-binary folx in UX through community, events, and mentorship. The DC Chapter was created in 2020 to provide safe spaces that continually fosters growth and connection whether online or in-person.

AIGA DC advances design as a professional craft, strategic advantage and vital cultural force. From its beginnings as a craft and design club of 79 members, AIGA DC has grown to include more than 1,100 individuals from Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia. Its educational programs and discussion listserv provide forums for the sharing of ideas and resources, and its public service initiatives help make design accessible to everyone. From college students to firm principals to local service providers, everyone can find a place in the AIGA DC community to learn, grow and excel.

This chapter is one of 68 chapters of AIGA, the professional association for design.

For more information on AIGA DC: http://www.aiga.org/