My approach to design was shaped by my childhood friend, who lived across the street and became one of my biggest influences. During endless afternoons of street hockey, bicycle adventures, and basketball lessons, I learned that the best solutions come from fearless experimentation. Every challenge would feel like an exciting opportunity. The willingness to try new things and to approach problems with curiosity rather than hesitation, became fundamental to who I am today.
I’m driven by the thrill of transformation, whether I’m renovating my 1948 home, volunteering at my child’s school or navigating technical challenges. Every project is an opportunity to embrace uncertainty and explore.
I’m a full brained kind of person. My background in mathematics and programming give me the analytical foundation to confront complex problems and to think strategically, while my art school training gives me the ability to think aesthetically and connect emotionally. The experience of running my own leather business taught me to get out, engage with customers, listen to feedback and experiment with new approaches as I learned.
Creative curiosity grounds me. In my free time I enjoy connecting with friends, learning something new, playing sports or music and laughing whenever possible. These moments remind me that fearless experimentation never really ends, it just finds a new playground.
I’m seeking product design and strategy opportunities with startups or small companies where I can help design the future.
Let’s connect:
tmanuel@usc.edu