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Jessica Schomaker

Sr UX Researcher and Strategist at Ameritas

Professional Background

Jessica Schomaker is an accomplished Sr. UX Researcher and Strategist at Ameritas, demonstrating a rich tapestry of experience within the field of user experience (UX) design and research. With a career that spans a variety of noteworthy positions, she has amassed a wealth of knowledge in UX strategy, design research, and interaction design. Jessica began her professional journey as a Freelance Designer, where she honed her creative skills and developed a strong portfolio that showcased her design capabilities.

Prior to her current role, she served as a Sr. UX Specialist at Ameritas where she played a pivotal role in enhancing user experiences across various digital platforms. Jessica's notable expertise has also been sought after by prominent organizations such as Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, where she acted as the UX Lead for the Project SEARCH initiative, focusing on improving the technology experience for users. Her broad experience also includes working as a senior consultant for multiple banking institutions, such as Fifth Third Bank, where she was instrumental in redesigning teller systems and advising on digital transformation projects.

In addition to her positions in the corporate realm, Jessica has contributed significantly to the UX community, notably as the Chair of Midwest UX 2017, where she fostered collaboration and knowledge-sharing among UX professionals in the Midwest. Throughout her career, she has also engaged in various consulting roles with organizations like Burke, Inc. and Ingage Partners, LLC, showcasing her versatility and commitment to advancing UX practices.

Education and Achievements

Jessica pursued her education at the University of Kansas, where she attained her Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Visual Communications with a concentration in Graphic Design. She went above and beyond in her academic journey, culminating in a Master's Degree in Design Management/Interaction Design, graduating with a perfect 4.0 GPA and honors. Her educational achievements have equipped her with a robust foundation in design theory and practice, essential for crafting user-centered solutions that meet the needs of diverse users.

As a graduate student, Jessica contributed significantly to various projects as a UX/UI Graduate Research Assistant for Richard Branham, focusing on critical research initiatives funded by The Gates Foundation. This valuable experience allowed her to merge academia with practical design applications, enhancing her research and analytical skills.

Skills and Expertise

Jessica Schomaker is skilled in a variety of areas, including:

  • User Experience (UX) Research and Strategy
  • Interaction Design
  • User-Centered Design Principles
  • Visual Communications
  • Design Management
  • UX/UI Research and Usability Testing
  • Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration
  • Design Thinking and Problem-Solving Her depth of expertise allows her to approach challenges holistically, ensuring that the end-user remains at the forefront of every design decision made.

Notable Projects

Among her many accomplishments, some of Jessica's key projects include:

  • Project SEARCH at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center: Led efforts to improve user interaction with the hospital's technology solutions, which had a profound impact on user satisfaction and accessibility.
  • Teller Redesign at Fifth Third Bank: Collaborated on a significant redesign project that modernized the banking experience for users both in-branch and online.
  • Advisor View Portal for Fifth Third Bank: Contributed as a UX Consultant to improve the advisor experience through innovative design solutions and usability testing.

Community Engagement

Jessica is a dedicated advocate for the UX community, having served in leadership roles such as the Chair of Midwest UX 2017. This position allowed her to spearhead initiatives that connected professionals within the field, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration and continuous learning in UX design.

Conclusion

In summary, Jessica Schomaker is a seasoned UX Researcher and Strategist with extensive experience in design and research, underpinned by a strong educational background in Visual Communications and Design Management. Her commitment to elevating the field of UX through strategic insights, leadership roles, and impactful design projects makes her a valuable asset to any organization. As she continues to advance her career, Jessica remains devoted to fostering innovative user experiences that empower individuals and enhance usability across various platforms.

Related Questions

How did Jessica Schomaker develop her expertise in user experience design?
What led Jessica to pursue a Master's Degree in Design Management and Interaction Design?
In what ways has Jessica contributed to the UX community, particularly as Chair of Midwest UX 2017?
How has Jessica's role as a Sr. UX Researcher at Ameritas influenced her approach to design strategy?
Can Jessica share insights on her experience leading the Project SEARCH initiative at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center?
Jessica Schomaker
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Location

Cincinnati, Ohio, United States