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UXPA Boston Board Nominee: Jerry Rutherford

 

Biography

I am a Senior Product Designer with a lifetime of curiosity to understand what makes a good product design and love of developing smart design solutions. I have had a solid and varied design career beginning with art direction and graphic design, then structuring those skills as a foundation for product and user experience design leadership. My master’s degree in management from Harvard University coupled with a bachelor’s degree from Principia College in fine arts and art history complement my work experience.

I had a deep interest in design and user experience, when designing publishing products for children. I really wanted to focus on the function of a good design, and get my head around how to design for the user (or customer), rather than just making my designs look good. So, in 2015, I got certified in user experience design through General Assembly.

After being laid off from my previous role as a product designer for a global publishing organization, I was asked by General Assembly to lead one of their UX Design cohorts. This helped me refresh and get back to best practices and keep abreast of current trends in UX design.

I am always learning new approaches to design and love to help people embrace the importance of good UX design in everyday life. My creative problem-solving skills have contributed to my approach for making smart design decisions.

My recent contract work has enabled me to assist in the conversion of a traditional print fashion catalog to a digital format, and continue to utilize my design skills to develop innovative publishing products.

I live on the shores of Manomet Beach in Plymouth with my wife, son (13), daughter (11), and our lazy bullterrier, mischievous cat, and curious bearded dragon. As a family, we enjoy the outdoors, traveling, and meeting new people.

 

Why join the UXPA Boston Board of Directors

UXPA has become an important organization for the UX design community in Boston. I am thrilled to express my interest to provide additional support and engagement as a UXPA Board Member.

I have had a long-time interest in and passion for good human-centered design. I come to you armed with master’s in management, a strong, but fun-loving work ethic, and enjoy mentoring and inspiring others to broaden their skills. Collaborating with others with the same interests and passion, sharing experiences, and keeping abreast of design trends are all my reasons for my interest in being engaged and supporting this organization in any way where I can.

 

Prior volunteering experience

  • For 5 years I was a volunteering dog trainer for Support Dogs (Duo). My responsibilities included fostering and training puppies to prepare them to be certified service dogs for handicapped. Additionally, I got my own dog certified for therapy visits to hospitals and nursing homes.
  • For 4 years I served as board president of my condo association (36 units). This involved leading the organization through financial, legal, and social situations.
  • For 5 years I served as a SoFi Brand Ambassador, collaborating with other local ambassadors providing social engagement to support the brand, leading customer feedback groups for new products and features.
  • I continue to support our non-profit neighborhood beach association through committee assignments, including fundraising efforts and design work.