Takashi Wickes
About Takashi Wickes
Takashi Wickes is a Design Lead at IDEO's Play Lab, where he focuses on creating emotionally resonant AI experiences. He has a diverse background in design and technology, having held various roles at notable companies including IDEO, Microsoft, and GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy.
Current Role at IDEO
Takashi Wickes serves as the Design Lead for the Play Lab at IDEO, a position he has held since 2022. In this role, he focuses on integrating design principles with play-based methodologies to create innovative solutions. His leadership in the Play Lab emphasizes the importance of playful interactions in design, aiming to enhance user engagement and experience.
Experience at IDEO
Wickes has extensive experience at IDEO, having worked in various capacities since 2017. He held the position of Senior Interaction Designer in the Design for Play team from 2021 to 2022. Prior to that, he was an Interaction Designer and Developer Intern in 2018 and contributed as an Academic Fellow at IDEO CoLab in 2017. His roles involved designing interactive experiences and collaborating on projects that emphasize user-centered design.
Professional Background
Before joining IDEO, Takashi Wickes gained diverse experience in technology and design. He worked as an ITLP EID Intern at GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy in 2015, focusing on mobile app development. He also interned at Microsoft in 2016 as an Explorer Intern for Visual Studio. His freelance work as a graphic designer from 2012 to 2014 provided him with foundational skills in visual communication and design.
Educational Qualifications
Takashi Wickes earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Florida. During his time at the university, he engaged in various research and leadership roles, including serving as a research assistant in the Human-Centered Technology in Construction Lab and as a University Student Leader at CodePath. His academic background supports his expertise in design and technology.
Involvement in Design Projects
Wickes has contributed to several design projects focused on AI and user experience. He has worked on AI-enabled social experiences and values-led prototyping for creative AI. His efforts include designing emotionally-resonant AI experiences and participating in prototyping methods aimed at Gen Z product testing. These projects reflect his commitment to advancing design practices in technology.