Hi, I'm Jake.

I’m a multidisciplinary designer who thrives on challenge and finding a clear path forward. Grounded in craft, storytelling, and high-volume exploration, I enjoy diving into the details, solving problems with intention, and bringing clarity to complexity.

I currently serve as a UX Web Manager at Leidos, where my division supports the Ameren Illinois Energy Efficiency Program through user-centered web strategy, design, and optimization. In 2025, I also taught web design at Western Illinois University (WIU) and launched my own design business. Prior to Leidos, I gained hands-on experience working with two small businesses, focusing on graphic and web design across a variety of client needs. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design from Western Illinois University with a minor in Graphic Communications, and I earned a front-end development certification from Clarusway in 2022, strengthening my design-to-development skill set.

What I do best

Design & Development

As a trained designer and front-end developer, I understand both the capabilities and constraints of software systems. I’m able to work directly alongside IT teams, jumping in to resolve bugs, contribute to code reviews, and help bridge the gap between design and development.

Leadership

I enjoy learning what inspires designers and developers both professionally and personally. By understanding what drives each individual, I’m able to support growth, encourage collaboration, and help people thrive in their work.

Structure in complexity

I excel at adding clarity and structure to ambiguous problems and environments, turning complexity into systems that are easy to navigate and understand.

Design Speed

I’ve intentionally refined my workflows and tools to maximize ideation and exploration, enabling me to generate a wide range of options quickly while still exploring solutions in depth.

Out of office

When I’m not building things, I enjoy traveling, spending time with my family, playing basketball, diving into board games, and capturing meaningful moments through photography. I’m also a proud lore nerd who’s always happy to go a little too deep into any universe. If any of this resonates with you, feel free to reach out.