My story

Crafting user first designs and collecting a few cards along the way

From pushing pixels to collecting Pokémon cards: how I design, mentor, and stay inspired.

Asking myself

How I became a professional box drawer, button mover, and digital problem solver

Back in 2012, when I first started university, I had no idea UX design even existed. If someone had told me I'd end up here, I wouldn't have believed it.

After graduation, still unsure of my path, I took an apprenticeship with a fire protection company. Working in the trades taught me a lot, but fitting sprinkler pipes wasn't for me. I soon found myself in an office job, but again, something was missing I wanted work that felt meaningful and fulfilling.

Jacob graduating from university
Jacob wearing a construction vest
Pokemon cards
Jacob looking out a window

Now what?

From uncertain times to finding my creative calling

At the start of the pandemic (a time filled with uncertainty) I decided to leave my job in construction. I immersed myself in learning UX/UI design, and six months later, I was fortunate to land a role as a web designer, officially beginning my journey as a professional box drawer.

My university degree in communications and skills from past roles were vital to getting my start in design. I wouldn't be where I am today without that diverse experience.

Pokemon Cards
Jacob working in his room
Jacob standing outside the Hydro One office

Present day

A fulfilled professional box drawer

After landing my first job in the industry, my passion for UX design only grew. I spent countless hours outside of work refining my design skills, driven by curiosity and a desire to become the best version of myself.

Teaching has always been close to my heart, so it felt natural to bring this into my new career as a “professional box drawer.” Now, I mentor students through an online UX design bootcamp, sharing insights and guiding them on their paths.

Fast forward four years, and I'm designing and developing web pages for Hydro One, Ontario's largest electricity provider. In 2018, 50 feet up on a scissor lift fitting sprinkler pipes, I'd never have believed I'd end up here.

Jacobs Puppy

Talented friends

Amir Elabbady

Lead Product Designer - Hilton Worldwide

amiro.design

Magued Hanna

Director UX Design - The Co-operators

maguedhanna.com

Gokhan Arslan

Senior UX Designer - CIBC

gokhanarslan.art

Jason Somai

Digital Manager - Hydro One

jasonsomai.com

Arvind Kumar

Manager, Ecommerce Department - Atlas Tools

in/arvind-kumar

Brandon Tang

Senior Web Designer - Jonas Club

btangdesigns.com

Maggie Copland

Product Specialist - Walmart

maggiecopland.design

Charan Singh

Webmaster - HearlingLife Canada

in/chsin

Trevor Baron

Senior Software Developer - Bytedance

in/trevor-baron