I began my career as an IT consultant at an enterprise software company, managing HR ERP implementations, collaborating with stakeholders like HR managers, and helping clients improve their HR processes. Working closely with users, I saw how they struggled with complex, rigid tools, but as a consultant, my ability to help was limited. That motivated me to move into software development.
Software Developer
2019-2023
A company split gave me the chance to move into software development, so I made the shift. I developed custom add-ons that integrated ERP workflows into client-specific processes for major Japanese organizations with more than 20,000 employees.
These projects required our team to create simple, intuitive solutions that met complex client needs while staying feasible and efficient to build. With no dedicated designer, I often handled the design work myself. That experience showed me the importance of design and inspired my transition to product design.
MS Information Experience Design, Pratt Institute
2023-2025
Driven by a passion for product design, I moved from Japan to New York City to pursue a Master’s at Pratt Institute.
At Pratt, I collaborated with external clients on a range of UX projects, partnering with AI startups, libraries, and solar companies on work spanning research and design.
