Experience
Current Role
Wheelhouse Group
Consultant
June 2021 - Present
consultant
I began my career at the Software Engineering Institute (SEI) as a technical writing intern in 2009 while finishing my master’s degree. From there, I was offered a full-time position on the CERT writing team. Within a year, I was promoted into a rotating position as Senior Writer for the Director’s Office (DO).
As the primary communications support for the C-suite, I created content for technical audiences, managed organization-wide projects, and assisted with an internal rebrand. My biggest challenge, and in some ways favorite aspect of the role, was communicating highly technical content in an engaging and accessible way.
During this time, the internal Organizational Effectiveness Group (OEG) tapped me to create content and roll out a new onboarding program, assist with the organization’s largest project showcase, and help further their mission through other tasks. On this team, I was able to expand my reach and understand the needs of the SEI on a deeper level.
After my time in the DO, I was sent to a newly formed startup within the organization to develop a comprehensive communications strategy. While in this role, I was still frequently called on to assist with projects and events for the C-suite.
Balancing these positions, I realized I enjoyed the fast-paced startup life and exploring different communication styles. That’s when I began looking for new challenges, and I started applying to companies in different countries.
Writer & Editor
January 2011 - December 2011
Editing Intern
May 2009 - December 2010
Senior Technical Writer
January 2012 - June 2013
This role was created for me, and my goal was to help unite the global team and make connections between its onsite staff and remote employees. I also worked to unify internal and external communications while helping to boost the company’s outreach efforts.
Edanz Group - Japan Office
Began Career as Startup Consultant
I began connecting with startups in Fukuoka and advising them on their PR & communications strategies.
Qurate Inc. - Japan Office
Head of Content
June 2018 - December 2019
Media Coordinator
December 2015 – June 2017
This role allowed me to help the growing startup create their organizational voice, define content goals, and build their overall brand. I built the foundational content that the company used to pitch their vision to new clients and potential investors at international events.
June 2014 - July 2015
Marketing & Content Specialist
My mission was to make Fukuoka's startups shine on the global stage. I worked closely with startup founders, employees, and enthusiasts to create a global awareness of Fukuoka’s startup community. My work ranged from interviewing founders for promotional videos to writing in-depth company profiles.
My mission was to attract international innovators to Fukuoka.
I created engaging marketing content about global and local smart-city topics.
Xplace founder, Allon Mason, created roles for me at multiple startups within his portfolio where I acted as a communications advisor and relationship manager.
As a member of the marketing team, I help to spread the message about Tymeshift’s solution and our team values. From social media posts to complex internal onboarding processes, I write it all. I recently co-authored a book with their CBO called Undefined World.
Past Roles
Education
Carnegie Mellon University Bachelor's Degree
B.A. in Professional Writing
2005 - 2009
Activities and Societies: Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority, Lambda Sigma Honor Society, Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society
Grants
Recipient of Grant from the U.S. Consulate of Fukuoka
July 2019 - October 2019
Recipient of Grant from the U.S. Consulate of Fukuoka
October 2018
Grant Title: Opportunities for Leading English Education Programs in Kyushu/Yamaguchi Region
Discussion leader for a six-session series on American film. The goal of these sessions was to start a dialogue on cinematic interpretations and the historical background of pivotal films.
Co-presenter for a workshop on the following topics:
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Session 1: Networking and Digital Professionalism
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Session 2: Crafting a Resume
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Session 3: How to Interview
Grant Title: Opportunities for Leading English Education Programs in Kyushu/Yamaguchi Region
"We have asked Alexa for some technical writings before, and have always been impressed by her quick work, which perfectly meets the demands of our customers, with amazing quality.
We and our customers highly evaluate her writings and give orders on a regular basis."
Yuka Kimura
Alvis Inc. Fukuoka Office
Alexa has been the driving force behind many successful customer-facing initiatives with a truly enterprising spirit...
Alexa always works with great care and dedication and never ceases to exceed expectations and surprise with her fresh writing, perspectives and approach.