David Akers is a seasoned professional with a rich background in user experience research and product development, currently taking a career sabbatical to focus on personal goals and family commitments. With a specialization in responsible and trustworthy product design, David's expertise has been honed through...
David Akers is a seasoned professional with a rich background in user experience research and product development, currently taking a career sabbatical to focus on personal goals and family commitments. With a specialization in responsible and trustworthy product design, David's expertise has been honed through pivotal roles, including the formation and leadership of the first Search Trust UX team at Google. This initiative not only advanced user trust in search technologies but also set a benchmark for ethical practices in user experience design.
In addition to his impactful work at Google, David has a strong academic foundation as a former computer science professor at the University of Puget Sound, where he inspired the next generation of technologists. His technical prowess is further demonstrated by his experience as a software engineer at Silicon Graphics, Inc., where he developed sophisticated computer graphics toolkits. This blend of academic and industry experience equips David with a unique perspective on the intersection of technology and human interaction.
During his sabbatical, David is actively exploring opportunities in the social impact sector, particularly within healthcare and education. His skills in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and human-computer interaction position him to contribute meaningfully to projects that prioritize user experience while addressing critical societal challenges. As he navigates this personal journey, David remains committed to leveraging his extensive knowledge in algorithms, data mining, and software engineering to foster innovation that enhances the quality of life for individuals and communities alike.
