Sofia Gallo Email and Phone Number

I am passionate about understanding how people use technology, why they believe the things they do, and accessibility in technology. I am currently a UX Researcher for Horizon Worlds, focused on understanding messaging and communications features. As the first visually impaired UX Researcher at Meta, I have found creative ways to conduct qualitative research methods including interviews, usability tests, focus groups and diary studies. I have deep experience in both public policy and UX Research. I was part of the 2021 cohort of Meta's Research Associate Program, which seeks professionals outside traditional UX Research hiring paths who have foundational research skills and an interest in a UX Research career.Previously, I served as Special assistant at the Office of the Secretary of Transportation under Secretary Elaine Chao, where I worked on the Administration’s priorities on accessibility in transportation and on a broad array of transportation policy issues. Specifically, I managed the accessibility portfolio. This included shaping the Department of Transportation’s first-ever accessibility strategic plan, organizing an event celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act that drew over 700 participants, initiating a new research and development project to explore best practices in automated vehicle accessibility, creating a list of regulatory barriers to accessibility, and overseeing the $5 million Inclusive Design Challenge. Additionally, I Provided expert insights and reviews for grant programs, including the $1 million University Transportation Center grant that will explore the implications of automated vehicles for people with disabilities, and the $40 million ITS4US Complete Trip Deployment Program.I also performed other tasks as assigned, including preparing speeches, information memos and presentation materials for leadership, including the Secretary of Transportation and the Under Secretary for Policy.Before that, I worked with Equal Entry to write articles and reviews on technology and accessibility. Additionally, I used my advanced knowledge of screen reader software to test websites and apps on iOS and windows by going through different scenarios with a screen reader to ensure that they are accessible to all users.