Bridging Operations with Inclusive Design

Overview

Ensuring Apple's newest AR device is comfortable for all users, regardless of hair type, texture, or head shape.

As the Program Manager for Vision Pro Accessories, I inherited the development of a removable knit headband designed for the Vision Pro. During user testing, we discovered a critical issue: the knit band caused discomfort for users with long or textured hair. This wasn't just a minor flaw—it threatened to exclude a significant user group and undermine Apple's commitment to accessibility.

Challenge

We needed to solve a significant design problem with extremely tight time constraints:

• Redesign the knit headband for comfort across diverse hair types and textures
• Execute rapidly without derailing the production schedule
• Manage supply chain impacts and maintain cost targets
• Meet Apple's exacting standards for quality and aesthetics

The Vision Pro launch date was approaching quickly, putting immense pressure on our team to find and implement a solution that didn't compromise on inclusivity or quality.

Actions

My bold leadership and clear conviction rallied the teams. Within weeks, we had prototyped and validated a new dual-loop knit band design that addressed the pressure issues while maintaining the aesthetic quality expected of an Apple product.

Outcome

Our efforts resulted in multiple positive outcomes:

• Successfully redesigned and delivered the knit band in time for launch
• Ensured comfort for all users regardless of hair type or texture
• Maintained the original product launch schedule
• Set a precedent for prioritizing inclusive design in late-stage product development
• Strengthened my reputation as a leader who "places inclusive design front and center"

This project exemplifies my approach to leadership: combining empathy for users with operational agility to drive meaningful change, even under intense pressure. The redesigned Vision Pro knit band demonstrates that inclusive design and business success go hand-in-hand when approached with commitment and strategic execution.

Overview

Leading one of Apple's most successful product launches through complex global supply chain and manufacturing challenges.

As the New Product Operations Program Manager for the iPad Air (4th generation), I led the cross-functional launch of this critical product for Apple. The iPad Air introduced a new design and advanced chip, and its launch spanned 2021 through 2023. I served as the operational hub between design, engineering, marketing, and Apple's vast global supply chain.

Challenge

Coordinating a flawless launch amid unprecedented global challenges:

• Synchronizing multiple OEM manufacturers (Foxconn, BYD) across different countries
• Navigating global supply chain disruptions during 2021-2023, including pandemic effects and component shortages
• Delivering on time for critical holiday launch windows
• Meeting strict cost targets and Apple's exacting quality standards
• Balancing cross-functional communication among teams with competing priorities

Any hiccup could cost Apple billions or tarnish the product's debut, putting immense pressure on our operations team to deliver flawlessly at scale.

Actions

Throughout the program, I leveraged my cross-functional leadership skills – hosting joint meetings between engineers and supply managers, translating technical risks into business terms for executives, and keeping every stakeholder aligned on our common goal. My bold decision-making, including fast-tracking a critical tooling change by personally securing executive approval in a single day, kept the program on track despite numerous challenges.

Outcome

The launch exceeded expectations in multiple dimensions:

• Generated approximately $89 billion in revenue over the product's lifecycle
• Launched on time despite global supply chain disruptions
• Achieved exceptional quality metrics, with initial return rates below targets
• Earned internal recognition for my ability to "manage risks and drive executive decisions" in high-pressure situations

This case study highlights my expertise in operational excellence and my ability to deliver business results through meticulous planning and coordination. It demonstrates how I can steer a complex project from concept to market, uniting teams across the globe toward a common objective, even in the face of unprecedented challenges.

Overview

Leveraging artificial intelligence to drive the next era of operational excellence in supply chain management.

In addition to my industry achievements, I've invested in expanding my expertise through Stanford University's Machine Learning Specialization (via Coursera). This ongoing project demonstrates my commitment to innovation and continuous learning, as I apply cutting-edge ML techniques to solve real-world operational challenges.

Challenge

Bridging the gap between theoretical AI/ML and practical business applications:

• Identifying how machine learning can improve forecasting, risk management, and process optimization in supply chains
• Developing the technical expertise to effectively implement these technologies as an operations leader
• Creating practical strategies that provide competitive advantages through data-driven decision making
• Translating complex technical concepts into actionable business insights for non-technical stakeholders

The fundamental challenge was taking theoretical machine learning knowledge and transforming it into practical strategies that operations leaders could implement to drive real business value.

Actions

Throughout this project, I treated it as a real BizOps scenario: defining a specific problem (improving on-time delivery by predicting delays), applying appropriate ML tools, and formulating actionable strategies from the results. I also engaged with professors and peers to discuss best practices for AI implementation in operations.

Outcome

This ongoing initiative is already yielding valuable outcomes:

• Created an "AI Ops Dashboard" prototype that can predict supply chain disruptions before they occur
• Developed models that recommend optimized production schedules based on machine learning forecasts
• Built a framework for communicating AI insights to operations teams in actionable terms
• On track to complete Stanford's ML Specialization by May 2025, formalizing expertise

This project showcases my ability to bridge technical and managerial realms—I can dive deep into data science and then translate those insights into strategic business applications. It reinforces my identity as an innovation-focused operations executive who stays ahead of industry trends and brings forward-thinking approaches to organizations.

Overview

Creating an innovative solution to help patients recover more effectively after hip surgery.

As an undergraduate engineering student, I worked on a collaborative project aimed at improving recovery outcomes for patients after hip surgery. In partnership with peers and mentors (including collaborators at the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile), I helped develop a prototype "Gait Tracking Brace" – a smart device designed to monitor and aid patients' walking patterns during rehabilitation.

Challenge

Creating an effective solution for post-surgery rehabilitation monitoring:

• Addressing the significant decline in patient outcomes caused by immobility and improper gait during recovery
• Designing a device that could continuously monitor patients after they left the clinic
• Balancing technical functionality with user comfort and acceptance, especially for elderly patients
• Integrating sensors and software in a way that didn't impede movement
• Creating a solution that patients would consistently use during home recovery

This multifaceted challenge required understanding biomechanics, sensor integration, and human factors to create an effective solution that patients would actually use.

Actions

Beyond the technical work, I coordinated between U.S. and Chilean team members, managing time zone differences and language barriers in an early demonstration of cross-cultural teamwork. Throughout the project, our focus remained on empathy for the end user: making the technology as unobtrusive and helpful as possible for elderly patients who simply wanted to regain their ability to walk confidently.

Outcome

This early-career project had significant impacts:

• Successfully created a working prototype that recorded gait metrics and provided feedback
• Pilot tests showed improved patient engagement in rehabilitation exercises
• Patients reported feeling more motivated to walk correctly knowing the device was tracking them
• The project directly led to my internship at Greenlee Textron and entry into the automotive industry
• Instilled a lasting appreciation for combining innovation with human-centered design

While this device didn't go commercial (it was a university project), it had a profound impact on my career trajectory. The creativity and leadership I demonstrated opened doors to my first professional roles and established my passion for projects that blend innovation with compassion. This early case study shows that even before managing billion-dollar programs, I was focused on solving real problems with ingenuity and empathy—a through-line in my career that continues to this day.