Hello, I'm Erick Watanabe. I'm a full-stack developer and with three years of experience. I enjoy building accessible sites & apps. My focus is React and Next.js.

I'm a Full-Stack Engineer who builds AI-powered tools and user-centered applications at the intersection of software development and learning experience design. Most recently at Blue Marble Space Institute of Science, I created data curation tools for NASA, designing intuitive interfaces that make complex scientific systems accessible to researchers, integrating LLM models into workflows, and developing modern web applications with React, Next.js, and FastAPI.

My path combines two powerful skill sets. I spent years as a physicist and university professor, designing STEM curricula and managing course delivery through learning management systems for 200+ students annually. This experience in instructional design, curriculum development, and learning analytics now informs how I approach software engineering. I build applications with the same principles I used in the classroom: understanding user needs, reducing cognitive load, ensuring accessibility (WCAG compliance), and creating intuitive experiences that require minimal training.

Whether I'm developing accessible React components, designing user-centered learning platforms, or implementing AI-powered tools, I focus on bridging complex technical systems with human-centered design. I specialize in full-stack development with expertise in instructional technology, building everything from responsive frontends to backend systems while applying ADDIE principles, learning assessment design, and adult learning theory.

I am most experienced in React, Next.js, JavaScript, TypeScript, Tailwind CSS, Python and have 7 years managing course delivery in Brightspace and Blackboard. I'm also familiar with Framer Motion, PostgreSQL, Firebase, FastAPI, Django, xAPI/SCORM standards, and learning analytics tools

I am currently seeking opportunities as a Software Engineer or Instructional Designer where I can leverage both my technical development skills and educational expertise to create impactful learning experiences and accessible software solutions.