Where UX Careers Are Headed—And How You Can Stay Ahead
Worried About Where Your UX Career Is Going? You’re Not Alone.
UX careers aren’t one-size-fits-all.
Some of us are trying to break in.
Some of us are stuck mid-level.
Some of us want to grow, but aren’t sure where to go next research, management, strategy?
That’s why we created the Career Panel at UXCON25.
It’s a candid, practical conversation about building and navigating a UX career in today’s market with people who’ve actually done it. Honest insight from UX professionals who’ve navigated layoffs, industry shifts, promotions, relocations, and career reinvention.
Panel: Where UX Careers Are Headed & How to Stay Ahead
🙋🏽♀️ For the UX professionals asking:
“Why aren’t recruiters calling me back?”
“Should I pivot? Stay IC? Go into management?”
“What if I’m too late or not good enough?”
This panel breaks down what’s really happening in UX hiring, how the role is evolving, and how to stay competitive (and confident) in the middle of all the uncertainty.
💡 You’ll hear from:
Wendy Zajack (Moderator)
Faculty Director & Professor, Georgetown University
Bridging academia and industry, Wendy brings years of insight into what companies are actually looking for, and how to shape your story so it lands.
Dan Flounders
Senior Visual Designer & Educator, Wide Angle Youth Media
Dan helps creatives find clarity and confidence. His journey proves that growth in UX isn’t always linear… and that’s more than okay.
Lina Reynolds
Lead UX Strategist, Ford
From design sprints to cross-functional leadership, Lina shares how she’s stayed relevant and visible inside one of the world’s biggest legacy brands.
Andy Vitale
VP, Head of Design, TaxWell
Andy has built and restructured teams across industries. He’s reviewed hundreds of portfolios — and knows why some candidates stand out while others get overlooked.
You’ll walk away with:
✔️ A clear picture of where UX careers are heading in the next 1–3 years
✔️ Real insight into the skills hiring teams actually want right now
✔️ Tools to build a strong career narrative even if you feel stuck
✔️ A boost of clarity and confidence (you’re not alone, and you’re not behind)
Real talk:
You’re not late. You’re not behind.
You just haven’t had the right conversation yet.
This panel is your chance to stop second-guessing and start moving forward.
(You’ll thank yourself later.)
P.S. The panel isn’t being recorded. The conversation happens in the room… and it could change your career trajectory.
🧡 Come with questions. Leave with clarity.
This is the panel you can’t afford to miss.
Bring your questions.
Leave with answers.