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In the past my professional experience started out with software design and engineering. I enjoy the methodical deconstruction of user specifications as well as designing an extensible and robust solution. I have always been especially concerned with making my software interfaces as aesthetically pleasing and intuitive as possible. Over time this interest has grown into a passion for GUI design. I find myself constantly critiquing and evaluating the interfaces that I encounter on a daily basis. I don't feel like a new gadget is really mine until I've modified the aesthetics of the interface to suit my tastes.
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I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work at Firaxis Games. During my time there I learned a phenomenal amount about interface design and the inner workings both of a successful game company and a team. I always knew that I enjoyed the area of UI, but it wasn't until I was employed at Firaxis that I totally understood I wanted to do it for the rest of my life.
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While there, I pitched a project to Sid Meier and together we've developed a working prototype. This was an incredible opportunity for me to learn about his process and the underlying concepts behind successful game design. Luckily, I know we will be able to continue working on this project after I leave. The decision to leave Firaxis was one of the hardest I've ever had to make. My husband is currently working on his Ph.D. at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. The costs of maintaining two households, both emotional and financial, became untenable. That being said, the relationship was so mutually beneficial that I will be contracting with Firaxis from Pittsburgh. I hope that I will also be able to work with some of the universities and companies in the greater Pittsburgh area to further my experiences and expertise in the area of user interface design.
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