Chris Durgin

AboutMe

Designing human-centered systems for real-world impact

Chris Durgin at work

Hi, I'm Chris

A Human-Centered Product Strategist and UX Designer passionate about aligning people, products, and technology in meaningful ways.

With 8+ years of experience across industries like utilities, logistics, and gaming, I specialize in solving complex, systemic problems through research, participatory design, and human factors thinking. I thrive at the intersection of product strategy, user experience, and systems design—working with cross-functional teams to ensure that the tools we build serve real human needs.

Whether I’m co-designing field tools with frontline operators, prototyping AI-powered workflows with enterprise teams, or mentoring product squads on HCD methods, my goal is the same: to make products that improve lives and reduce friction—especially in high-stakes, high-complexity environments.

When I’m not designing or facilitating, I’m usually geeking out over behavioral science, emerging tech, or the next wave of inclusive design practices.

Professional Journey

My career path and key milestones

2024 – Present

Senior Product Designer II – UX & Human Factors

Neudesic, an IBM Company

Leading UX strategy, human-centered design, and product discovery for enterprise and industrial systems.

2021 – 2024

Associate → Product Designer I

Neudesic

Designed digital tools across logistics, utilities, and gaming; embedded in cross-functional agile teams.

2018 – 2020

M.S. User Experience & Human Systems Engineering

Arizona State University – Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering

Graduate focus on HCD, cognitive systems, and applied UX methods for complex industries. Awarded most outstanding UX Graduate 2020.

2019 – 2020

Graduate Research – UX & Human Systems Engineering

Arizona State University

Conducted research in human systems engineering and behavioral UX; mentored students and supported faculty in HSE coursework and labs.

2016 – 2018

B.S. Technical Communication & User Experience

Arizona State University

Summa Cum Laude graduate with emphasis on UX strategy, content design, and IA.

2015 – 2017

A.A. Concentration in CIS & Digital Design

Mesa Community College

Completed studies in computing systems, digital design, and human-computer interaction.

2017

CCL Certificate in Digital Design

Mesa Community College

Earned a certificate in digital design alongside associate coursework.

2010 – 2012

A.A.S. Visual Communications & Design

ITT Technical Institute

Studied visual communication, design systems, and digital media foundations.

My Approach

Core values and methodologies that guide my design process

🧠

Research-Driven

I start with people—aligning user needs, business goals, and system realities through deep research.

🔄

Iterative by Design

I prototype early, test often, and evolve solutions through continuous user feedback.

🤝

Radically Collaborative

I co-create with cross-functional teams to ensure shared understanding and stronger outcomes.

📐

Systems-Oriented

I design with scale and structure in mind—using systems thinking and modular frameworks.

📊

Outcome-Driven

I define success by the value delivered—measurable impact, adoption, and user trust.

🌱

Always Evolving

I explore new tools, trends, and tech—especially where design, AI, and people intersect.