Shawn Choi

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

Over the past 15 years, I've developed a deep passion for human-centered design and education. After graduating from Emily Carr University of Art + Design, I worked with organizations ranging from non-profits to global tech companies, consistently delivering engaging, high-impact products. These diverse experiences sharpened my ability to empathize with users, collaborate across disciplines, and approach complex challenges through systematic thinking.

I'm currently a Senior Product Designer at Microsoft, where I lead the design vision for People Companion as part of Microsoft 365 Companions for Windows. Previously, I helped integrate AI technologies into user experiences across Microsoft Copilot and other M365 core services. I crafted the UX strategy for the Copilot plugin framework, enabling users to connect Microsoft Graph data with tools like Jira, Salesforce, and more, all without breaking their flow. Earlier, I enhanced Cortana's voice-first experience to make hands-free productivity smarter and more human. Microsoft's mission to empower through innovation aligns closely with my values. I'm passionate about designing with empathy, purpose, and a deep respect for the people who use the products I help build.

My passion for design naturally extends into education. For nearly two decades, I've supported emerging creatives by organizing national design competitions, guiding students to develop their unique voices, and contributing to the future of design education. Today, I serve as an Advisory Board Member at Vancouver Film School and a Senator at Emily Carr University of Art + Design, where I help shape curriculum, policy, and strategic direction. In addition, I act as a Subject Matter Expert for the Government of British Columbia, evaluating UX/UI programs at post-secondary institutions to ensure quality, relevance, and forward-thinking innovation. Together, these roles support a thriving design education ecosystem in British Columbia.

Looking ahead, I remain committed to advancing meaningful design and empowering education. Whether I'm building impactful products or mentoring the next generation of designers, I strive to foster innovation, inclusivity, and growth in everything I do.

If you share my passion for the intersection of design and education, I'd love to connect on LinkedIn. Together, we can help shape the future of design and create lasting impact.