Portfolio: https://michaelangeloponce.myportfolio.com/workMichael Ponce is an accomplished creative leader and Industrial Designer with a passion for creating physical objects that enhance the human experience. A 2009 graduate of the Otis College of Art and Design, Michael received a comprehensive creative education, during which he co-launched a pioneering entrepreneurship program in collaboration with Loyola Marymount University. Graduating at the top of his class, his innovative work is preserved as part of Otis College's permanent collection. Despite the challenges posed by the 2008 economic crash, Michael was one of only two students in his graduating class to secure a job after graduation - a testament to his quality of work and poise under pressure.After college, Michael took on the role of Studio Manager at award-winning furniture brand, Phase Design, where his contributions were featured in prestigious publications such as The New York Times, Wallpaper magazine, and NY Daily News. Phase Design’s work can be found in high-profile locations like the Cosmopolitan Hotel, Equinox Fitness, and Nordstrom.In 2010, Michael transitioned to dreamGEAR, where he became the company’s first in-house Product Designer, where he was tasked with pioneering the product design department and development processes which are still in use today. As part of dreamGEAR's My Arcade brand of retro video gaming devices, Michael was responsible for designing the Gamer V and Go Gamer handhelds, each selling over one million units each.As of 2022, Michael was promoted to Vice President of Design at dreamGEAR. Under his leadership, Michael oversees a team of 10 direct reports and has designed over one hundred products available on the market, with his work earning three CES Innovations awards. As VP of Design, Michael was responsible for the design of the Atari Gamestation Pro, which went on to become the most successful product launch in the company's history.
Listed skills include Product Design, Sketching, Rapid Prototyping, Illustrator, and 45 others.
