From engineering to design
Originally from Japan, I started my career managing ERP implementations for companies with 1,500+ employees. Seeing how our ERP shaped customers’ daily work inspired me to improve the product directly.

I then spent 4+ years as a software engineer building a project management SaaS platform and developing custom ERP add-ons for companies with 20,000+ employees. With no designer on the team, I introduced design thinking to help create intuitive, feasible features for complex workflows.

Driven to better connect humans and complex systems, I pursued my Master’s, delivering impactful design solutions for diverse clients, including an AI startup and a solar energy company. I also explored designing for emerging technologies such as VR.
History
Project Manager
2018-2019
I began my career as an project manager 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 Engineer
2019-2023
A company split gave me the chance to move into software engineering. 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.
UX Consultant
2023-2025
At Pratt Institute, I collaborated with external clients on a range of UX projects, partnering with AI startups, libraries, and solar companies on services spanning both research and design.