Name: Allison Kennedy
Where are you from? Where do you live now? I was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio. I lived in Seattle, Washington for 10 years, and I’ve been in Tempe, Arizona since 2014. (It’s my favorite so far!)
Role: Manager of UI/UX Development
Favorite Quote: "Think left and think right and think low and think high. Oh, the things you can think up if you only try.” - Dr. Seuss
How did you end up in UI development? Is that what you wanted to do growing up?
In a way, yes it is! I started writing code when I was 11. I customized my profile page on every early-2000’s website that allowed users to directly edit their HTML and CSS. Ididn’t even know what “front end development” was yet, but I knew I loved it! The experience of creating visually appealing user experiences using code and logic satisfies a certain combination of left and right brain skills that makes me feel at home.
In college, I obtained my BA in Visual Communication (graphic design). After I graduated I found my way back to front end development, and applied my design education to my development practice. For the past several years I’ve specialized in writing clean, concise, scalable CSS that’s as beautiful as its browser output, and prototyping user experiences that prioritize simplicity. Throughout my career I’ve also found joy in team leadership and management, and that’s how I ended up where I am today, in a nutshell!
I’ve always loved being creative, so when I completed my senior design portfolio show in college, I recreated this grade school photo of me with my painting being shown at a local community center.
What motivates/inspires you?
I get excited about green energy. I’m that girl with the electric car. That's why I'm especially excited to be working on software that makes day-to-day tasks easier for energy companies, so they have more time to dedicate to developing the technology that could have a real impact on the world.
What is something you’re proud of?
I’m proud to be a woman in STEM! Gender representation in technology is improving, and I’m super excited to be a part of it. I’m also very proud of my amazing team, and all the problems we solve together.
Any hidden talents?
I try to beat the high score on every Pac-Man & Ms. Pac-Man machine I find. I almost always succeed. My goal is to get a high score on at least 1 machine in each U.S. state.
Why do you love working at NarrativeWave?
We have such a collaborative culture! Everybody is always willing to jump in and help out, and we have fun along the way. I learn something new from my teammates every day.
Hobbies outside of work?
I love to watch geeky movies and anime, go rock climbing, play video games, and go out to eat at the awesome restaurants here in Arizona with my husband.
Favorite TV show?
The Twilight Zone (1959)
If you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you spend it?
I’m a natural overachiever, so I’m intentionally placing high priority on rest and breaks this year! You can find me listening to some alternative rock or pop music, grabbing a snack and coffee, or watching a quick funny video. Music, food, and laughter are my favorite ways to decompress.
Any other passion projects?
I'm interested in urban exploration, local history, and photography. The world is full of beautiful and interesting places that people don’t always think to appreciate. Old buildings and antiques with good stories fascinate me, especially if those stories are a little spooky!
