Hosted by: Cassie Betts
Executive Producer: Eman Barkley
Air Date: November 9, 2024

Introduction to Episode and Guest

In this insightful episode of Talk Tech To Me, host Cassie Betts welcomes Everett Swain II, co-founder of UXD Academy and AI-focused agency Hour Table, to discuss how AI is transforming design. Swain’s expertise as an Experience Designer guides the conversation through the intersection of AI and human-centered design, making a compelling case for accessible, adaptable technology.

Guest Background in Tech

Everett Swain’s path from graphic design to experience design highlights his dedication to hands-on learning. After beginning his career through self-teaching and freelancing, he broke into corporate design in 2015. His journey inspired him to co-found UXD Academy in 2018, creating a resource for aspiring designers outside traditional education, and in 2022, he launched Hour Table to provide apprenticeships in AI-powered design projects.

Main Insights

Swain emphasizes the need for "Universal Experience Design" (UXD), a method focusing on inclusivity and user-friendly digital experiences across industries, from healthcare to e-commerce. Through UXD Academy, he champions a project-based, skill-oriented curriculum that prepares students for real-world tech demands. This approach, he asserts, is essential as AI-driven tools reshape the tech landscape.

Community Impact

A dedicated advocate for diversity in tech, Swain’s Hour Table offers a "learn-to-earn" apprenticeship, positioning graduates for impactful roles in tech. The academy’s unique model underscores the importance of alternative education, particularly for underrepresented groups seeking entry into tech.

Career Advice

For designers weighing corporate versus freelance roles, Swain offers practical insights. Freelancing, he notes, can build versatile skills, while corporate roles offer stability and growth. He also underscores the ethical considerations for designers in AI, advocating for human-centered design to keep AI aligned with user needs.

Final Takeaways

As the episode closes, Swain shares his vision for design in a rapidly advancing AI era, emphasizing mentorship and alternative education’s role in preparing the next generation. Listeners are encouraged to explore the UXD Academy and Hour Table, especially those interested in combining AI with human-focused design.

Stay Connected
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