Milka Ininahazwe
Summary
Experienced product designer skilled in blending creativity and analytical thinking to deliver exceptional user experiences. Proficient in user research, interaction design, and embedded systems, with a strong focus on designing intuitive and scalable digital experiences for IoT and connected vehicle platforms. Collaborative by nature, adept at working cross-functionally with product managers, developers, and data scientists to develop user-centered design solutions that optimize onboarding, engagement, and product usability.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Product Design Engineer
PennEngineering and Manufacturing
Danboro, PA
06.2024 - Current
- Led the end-to-end design and development of high-performance fastening and assembly solutions, reducing product defects by 35% through rigorous testing and material optimization
- Developed and implemented an intelligent QR code-based tracking system, improving asset traceability and reducing machine downtime by 60% in production lines
- Designed and optimized automated assembly solutions, enhancing production line efficiency by 50% and reducing manual labor costs
Mechanical Design Engineer
Falcon-X UAV Project | Lafayette College
Easton, PA
08.2023 - 05.2024
- Designed and developed Falcon-X, an advanced unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) optimized for efficiency, aerodynamics, and endurance
- Led aerodynamic optimization efforts, utilizing CFD simulations (ANSYS Fluent) to refine airfoil performance and reduce drag
- Engineered a lightweight fuselage and wing structure using carbon fiber composites and aluminum alloys for optimal strength-to-weight ratio
- Integrated autonomous flight control systems and avionics for real-time navigation and mission execution
- Conducted flight testing and telemetry analysis, improving system stability and performance through iterative design enhancements
Mechanical Design Engineering Intern
Harry's, Inc.
New York City, NY
06.2023 - 08.2023
- Designed a high-precision laser engraving fixture, improving user accessibility and production efficiency
- Developed CAD models and prototypes with a strong focus on usability and manufacturing feasibility
- Conducted user research and testing to refine product ergonomics and interface interactions
Undergraduate Research Assistant
University of Toronto - Safety, Equity and Design (SED) Lab
Toronto, ON
05.2022 - 08.2022
- Investigated the psychological safety of underrepresented groups in engineering design teams, applying UX research methodologies to evaluate user behaviors and interactions
- Developed UI/UX recommendations to foster more inclusive and collaborative digital workspaces
Customer Support Representative
MSi Corp
Ottawa, ON
06.2020 - 08.2021
- Provided bilingual (English-French) customer service, addressing client inquiries and resolving issues efficiently
- Handled a high volume of customer interactions via phone and email, ensuring timely and effective support
- Assisted customers with technical troubleshooting and product-related questions
- Accurately recorded and maintained customer contact information and details
Education
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering With Honors, Computer Science
Lafayette College
Easton, PASkills
- Fastening System Design
- Advanced Machining Techniques
- PLM Strategy Development
- FEA Modeling Expertise
- CFD Analysis Expertise
- Advanced Composite Materials Knowledge
- CNC Operation
- Injection Molding Expertise
- Automated Process Implementation
- Quality Control Processes
- Sensor System Integration
- Data-Driven Maintenance Strategies
- Applied Machine Learning
- User Interface Development
- User-Centered Design
- Interface Usability Evaluation
- Wireframe Development
- IoT System Integration
- Vehicle Connectivity Interfaces
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Analytical Decision-Making
- Figma Design Expertise
- Sketch
- InVision
- Principle
- Expertise in AutoCAD
- Experienced in SolidWorks Design
- Experienced in Creo
- Experienced in AutoDesk Inventor
- HTML Proficiency
- CSS Implementation
- JavaScript Proficiency
- Python Scripting for BigQuery Integration
- Proficient in SQL
- Iterative Prototyping
- Team-Oriented Collaboration
- Agile Design Methodologies
- AODA Expertise
- Web Accessibility Standards Compliance
- 3D modeling expertise
- Project management
- Market research analysis
- Manufacturing processes
- Organizational skills
- Adaptability and flexibility
Affiliations
- Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
- National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
Leadership And Volunteer Experience
- Society Of Women Engineers (SWE), President of Lafayette College Chapter, Championed initiatives to enhance diversity and increase representation of women in engineering disciplines.
- Lafayette College, Resident Advisor, Coordinated events and built strong community connections while fostering an inclusive, supportive environment for all students.
- Abarundikazi Period Movement, Co-Founder and Deputy President, Managed logistics and outreach for a social impact initiative aimed at improving health and equity in underserved communities.
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
French
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Product Design Engineer
PennEngineering and Manufacturing
06.2024 - Current
Mechanical Design Engineer
Falcon-X UAV Project | Lafayette College
08.2023 - 05.2024
Mechanical Design Engineering Intern
Harry's, Inc.
06.2023 - 08.2023
Undergraduate Research Assistant
University of Toronto - Safety, Equity and Design (SED) Lab
05.2022 - 08.2022
Customer Support Representative
MSi Corp
06.2020 - 08.2021
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering With Honors, Computer Science
Lafayette College