Jess C.
5.0
Studied at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Works at Autodesk
Available Friday at 6:00 PM UTC
Questions? Start chatting with this coach before you get started.
About Jess
Hi, I’m Jess — a Product Manager at Autodesk who took the scenic route from architecture into tech. I built my career through creativity, storytelling, and a deep understanding of design and user empathy, without a CS degree or MBA. I launched and led Autodesk’s first Associate Product Manager development program, supporting dozens of early-career PMs. Now, I coach creatives and career-switchers, especially from design and architecture backgrounds, to confidently break into product management and thrive.
Why do I coach?
I coach because I know how it feels to want to break into product—but constantly question if you’re “technical enough” or have the “right” background. If you come from a design, architecture, or non-technical field, you might feel like an outsider, even when you know you have strong instincts, ideas, and people skills. I’ve been there—and I know how discouraging the process can be when you don’t fit the mold. My goal is to help you skip the second-guessing and start building with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re refining your story and resume, prepping for interviews, building portfolio projects, or simply exploring if product is the right path for you, I’ll meet you where you’re at—and help you turn your nontraditional background into your biggest asset.
Work Experience
Product Manager
Autodesk
January 2024 - Present
Associate Product Manager
Autodesk
July 2022 - January 2024
Product Management Intern
Autodesk
June 2021 - September 2021
Community Manager
Arcbound
April 2021 - June 2021
Speaker
TEDx
August 2020 - August 2020
Co-Founder, Product Lead
Ethic Marketplace
November 2018 - January 2020
Education
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Bachelor of Architecture - BArch, Architecture
Activities and societies: Cal Poly Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE), WIBassador for Women in Business, College of Architecture and Environmental Design (CAED) Council, Cal Poly Entrepreneurs Conferences, Panels, and Competitions Attended: • Speaker @ Mustang Family Weekend 2020 • Speaker @ Pathfinding for Young Professionals 2020 • Speaker @ TEDx San Luis Obispo 2020 • Launchpad Finalist 2019 • Demo Day: Innovators of the Next Generation 2019 • Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Summer Accelerator Finalist: $10,000 Award
Haas School of Business (Berkeley)
Product Management Certificate Program
2023 - 2023
An immersive, in-person training experience, including a six-week online component with learning across several highly relevant product management topics: business model communication, product & product-line profitability, management capabilities, the language of senior management, transcending firefighting & driving strategy, and more.
9 Reviews
Overall Rating
5.0
Jess has helped clients get into these companies: