Shawn Choi

At the core of my approach is empathy. Seeing the frustration caused by poorly designed products motivates me to continually push boundaries and refine ideas. While meticulous attention to detail provides a strong foundation, I believe that clarity, curiosity, and collaboration are the pillars that truly drive successful projects.

Throughout my 15-year career in the design industry, I've nurtured a deep passion for human-centred design and education. After graduating from Emily Carr University of Art + Design, I collaborated with organizations ranging from non-profits to global tech corporations—consistently delivering engaging, high-impact products. These varied experiences sharpened my ability to empathize with users, work seamlessly across disciplines, and tackle complex challenges through systematic thinking.

I'm currently a Senior Design Manager at Microsoft, where I oversee the design vision for People Companion as part of Microsoft 365 Companions for Windows. Previously, I contributed to integrating AI technologies into user experiences for Microsoft Copilot and other M365 core services. Microsoft's mission to empower through innovation resonates deeply with my own values, and I've found a meaningful stage for my commitment to user-centred design.

My passion for design naturally extends to education. For nearly two decades, I've nurtured emerging creatives—organizing nationwide design competitions, teaching students to refine their unique voices, and shaping the field's future. Today, as an Advisory Board Member at Vancouver Film School and a Senator at Emily Carr University of Art + Design, I champion design education by shaping curricula, policies, and strategic direction that spark creativity and innovation. Additionally, as a Subject Matter Expert for the Government of British Columbia, I evaluate UX/UI design programs at post-secondary institutions, ensuring rigorous standards, accreditation, and forward-thinking innovation. Together, these efforts bolster a vibrant design education landscape in British Columbia.

Looking ahead, I remain dedicated to advancing impactful design and empowering education. Whether I'm creating meaningful products or mentoring the next generation of talent, I strive to drive innovation and growth in every project I undertake.

If you share my passion for the intersection of design and education, let's connect on LinkedIn. Together, we can shape the future of design and make a lasting impact.