When I graduated from Carnegie Mellon with a dual major in Statistics and Human-Computer Interaction, I knew I wanted to find a company that truly valued design, not as an afterthought, but as an integral part of the product development process. What I didn’t expect was to find that perfect fit in my very first job.
Leverege wasn’t just a great place to start my career; it’s been a place that’s challenged me, nurtured my growth, and made me feel like my contributions truly mattered from day one.
From Data Nerd to Design Enthusiast
Before joining Leverege, I thought I was going to be a UX researcher. My internship at the Toyota Research Institute reinforced that idea at first - I spent a lot of time interviewing users and analyzing data in R. But my mentors encouraged me to step beyond my assigned role and explore product design. Seeing how a colleague transformed raw user data into a functional, beautiful interface sparked something in me. I asked if I could observe the design team, and before I knew it, I was contributing to their work.
That experience changed everything. It showed me that great design isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about using data and evidence to create something that works. That realization pushed me to pivot my coursework, load up on design-focused classes in my senior year, and ultimately look for a company that embraced design as a core function.
A Company That Actually Values Design
As I started my job search, I knew I wanted to work somewhere that truly valued design, where I could collaborate with other designers rather than being the only one on a team. During my interview with Hannah, the CPO, she emphasized how deeply embedded design is at Leverege. Design isn’t just window dressing; it’s a key pillar of the company.
That conversation, along with insights from other designers I spoke with about the major projects I’d be working on, made it clear that Leverege was different. When I joined, I quickly realized just how much design influenced everything, from business development to product management to customer success. Even our CEO, Eric, takes a personal interest in design, which means our work is never sidelined.
Designing with Impact: My Role at Leverege
Now, as a lead designer, I work on the AutoTrace team, collaborating closely with our product managers, developers, and customer experience specialists to create solutions that meet both user needs and business goals. My day involves a mix of competitive analysis, user research, and hands-on design work in Figma. I spend a lot of time consulting with our PMs and customer experience team because their insights help shape the best possible experience for our users.
One of the most rewarding moments for me was seeing the impact of my work on the operations of one of our customers for PitCrew. Watching the data show how our designs improved service times at their stores was a powerful moment, it was when I realized, “wow, the things I create here actually help businesses operate better.”
Growth Through Curiosity and Experimentation
If I had to capture Leverege’e culture in one word, it would be “non-complacent”. Leverege has a culture that thrives on continuous learning and curiosity. No one here is complacent. From leadership down to every team member, there’s a constant push to keep up with new trends, explore new tools, and refine our craft.
That mindset has had a huge influence on me. I used to think mastering Figma was enough. But working with my manager, Shela, has shown me that design tools are constantly evolving, and staying ahead means always looking for what’s next. Her passion for design is contagious, and she’s helped me develop the same hunger for innovation.
Mastering Remote Work: Tips and Takeaways
Having never worked in an office before, remote work is all I’ve ever known. But Leverege makes it seamless. The company has spent years refining its processes, and everything, from our documentation systems to our communication tools, just works.
One thing I’ve learned is that managing your time well is essential in a remote environment. I rely on a detailed calendar, organized note-taking in Notion, and high-quality hardware to stay productive. And since there’s no micromanaging here, that means you have to be self-driven. The people who thrive at Leverege are those who take initiative and stay engaged without needing someone to check in on them constantly.
The Future Is Bright, and Well Designed
The future at Leverege excites me. Our push to make Leverege a more product-focused company is something I’m deeply invested in. And it’s rewarding to see our UI and marketing materials evolve to match modern design trends, ensuring that our products look and feel like they belong in 2025, not 2015.
For anyone considering joining Leverege, my advice is simple: be genuinely interested in what we do. This isn’t a place to just clock in and out. It’s a place where curiosity, initiative, and passion for great design and technology will take you far.
~ Quick Facts ~
- My Leverege Shoutout: Shela, my design manager. She’s had the biggest impact on my professional growth, constantly pushing me to explore new tools and refine my craft. Her passion for design is inspiring.
- Life Outside of Work: Lately, I’ve been really into interior design. Since I work remotely, I’ve been designing my apartment to reflect different functions - my workspace is sleek and minimal, while my living area is cozy and relaxing.
- Content Recommendation: “On and By Frank Lloyd Wright: A Primer of Architectural Principles” by Robert McCarter. His approach to designing physical spaces has shaped the way I think about digital design.
- Could Give a TED Talk About: Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture. I’ve visited many of his buildings, from Fallingwater to the Guggenheim, and I love analyzing how his designs integrate with their surroundings.
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