JACOB RIVERA.
LIFE FROM THE BLEAK
INDUSTRIAL & UI/UX DESIGNER
People with creative potential—especially young adults and underserved communities—lack spaces and tools that help them grow creatively and relationally in a healthy, values-aligned way. Existing creator tools optimize output, not formation, community, or purpose. Seeking to expand the concretes so life can flourish from the lifeless, cold concrete.
A reflection who seeks to builds tools that shape people, not just content.
02 PORTFOLIO
03 EXPERIENCE
Interests
From an early age, I've always loved drawing, mostly characters. I loved art class and also found an interest in the crafts (for projects). Most of all, I loved reaching out and making friends with all of those around me.
Childhood
Teen years
Craft Chosen
After learning graphics and fashion under Trap Golf’s creator Aaron Munn, I discovered a passion for design that sparked my creativity and self-expression. When applying to Georgia Tech, Industrial Design rose to the top of my list, though I hadn’t yet realized its full scope.
Georgia Tech
Starting Industrial Design at GT was a steep learning curve with no prior experience. My first year focused heavily on models and prototypes, emphasizing problem-solving and form following function.
2023
2024
Process Starts
UI/UX Designer
I led the design efforts for a startup's digital platform, focusing on intuitive user interactions and visual appeal to drive user engagement.
2025
Doubts
2026
Purpose Reimagined
Near the end of my second year, repeated project failures made me doubt my place in the field. While I still don’t have all the answers, I’ve fallen back in love with the craft, expression, and creativity — and now the field has me drawn in.
Today, my focus is clear: designing to bring life into a world that can feel dull or disconnected. I aim to create meaningful experiences that impact people, not just the products they use.
