EP 40 | Curiosity: The Key to Innovation with Cassandra J. Collins

We can all agree that the tech industry would not exist without innovation. So where does innovation come from?  Today on the show, Grace chats with Cassandra J. Collins Principal UX Design Director at Microsoft about the power of curiosity and how curiosity leads to innovation. Cassandra also shares how she uses AI, game technology, UX design, and simulation to tackle massive data problems and empower large organizations. Cassandra J Collins is currently Principal UX Design Director at Microsoft working with an elite Azure team that uses game technology, AI, and simulation to empower organizations with plant-scale and massive data problems. With over 25 years in the video game, entertainment, and technology space, Cassandra leverages Human-Centered design, User Experience, and Inclusive Design methodologies to develop a unified simulation platform and experience across a wide section of industries such as defense, industrial, and space.     She serves as the Girls Voice Coordinator and is on the Workshop Leadership Team at IGNITE Worldwide (Inspiring Girls Now In Technology), where she hosts IGNITE UX 101 Design workshops that helps to elevate girl’s voices in STEM fields.  Since 2018, she has served as a Design Subject Matter Expert on Microsoft’s Worldwide UX Design Communities and in 2011, as the User Experience Chair of AIGA Seattle.     Key takeaways: Why curiosity leads to innovation How to practice being curious  The cost of being different The importance of having a diverse portfolio of sponsors and mentors   Follow Tech Unlocked for career tips: Substack Twitter Instagram Connect with Cassandra: Linkedin  Connect with Grace: Twitter LinkedIn Enjoyed listening to this episode? Please leave a review on iTunes and Spotify. Questions about sponsorship? Email us [email protected]