65. Modern Apprenticeships in Digital Craftsmanship

Is the traditional path to becoming a UX designer ripe for a redesign?

This week I had a chance to chat with Alexey Novik about the unique approach his company, Coherent Solutions, takes toward nurturing new talent in the UX field through their apprenticeship program. Alexey shares his perspective on how combining hands-on project work with the foundational principles of apprenticeship creates a rich, immersive learning environment for aspiring UX designers.

We dug into the structure of the program, where apprentices get to work on actual projects, gaining the kind of real-world experience that’s hard to come by in a classroom. Alexey stressed the importance of mentorship, where each apprentice is paired with seasoned professionals, ensuring a learning experience that’s both broad and deep.

We also touched on the challenges and rewards of this approach, from the logistics of integrating apprentices into live projects to the immense satisfaction of seeing them grow into confident, capable designers ready to make their mark on their teams.

For anyone curious about alternative pathways into UX design, or companies looking to develop their talent in a meaningful, impactful way, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice.

Topics:
• 07:49 – Coming to the understanding that apprenticeships are the way to go
• 14:52 – Coherent Solutions apprenticeship program
• 18:52 – Benefits of apprenticeships
• 26:25 – Apprenticeship teaches partnerships early
• 29:46 – Does hands-on teaching miss out on learning theory?
• 34:24 – Traits that signify success
• 37:18 – Coherent’s Experience Interest Matrix

Helpful Links:
• Connect with Alexey on LinkedIn
• Coherent Solutions

Alexey Novik
UX Department Manager @ Coherent Solutions

About Alexey

Alexey Novik is currently a UX leader Coherent Solutions, a leading digital product engineering company. With an impressive 16-year tenure in user experience design, he has consistently demonstrated his expertise as a department manager. Beyond his leadership role, Alexey has played a pivotal part in shaping the careers of over 120 students, underscoring his dedication to mentorship in UX. As a startup founder, with a particular enthusiasm for XR and his specialization in UI and UX design, Alexey skillfully aligns business objectives with cost-effective and efficient solutions for web, mobile, and desktop platforms. 

Connect with Alexey on LinkedIn

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