This year we launched Voices of Hiya, a new monthly blog series where we spotlight one outstanding Hiyan in an effort to share more about our team and what it’s like to work at Hiya. Every aspect of our employees, both inside and outside of work, makes our team special.
This month we’re featuring Timmy Huang, Principal Visual Designer. Timmy is based at Hiya’s U.S. headquarters in Seattle, Washington. Read on to discover what his job entails and what makes him an important part of our community.
Why were you interested in working at Hiya?
Prior to joining Hiya, my experience was primarily within enterprise settings. However, after relocating from Taiwan to Seattle, I felt compelled to immerse myself in the startup culture and assess whether it resonated with me. Coincidentally, having been a dedicated user of spam call identification services for a considerable time, discovering that Hiya was headquartered in Seattle made the decision to join the team an effortless one. The prospect of contributing to a company that strives to enhance trust in voice calls and improve the world aligns perfectly with my aspirations.
What is your role at Hiya?
I currently hold the responsibility of shaping Hiya's brand look and feel as our Principal Visual Designer.
How has working at Hiya helped you grow?
I previously worked in the fashion and consumer electronics sectors, so understanding the SaaS (software as a service) model was a shift for me but it has definitely been beneficial for my growth.
What does happiness mean to you?
Maintaining my health and having plenty of quality time with my family.
What is your favorite home cooked meal?
I don't have a strong preference toward any specific foods. I enjoy all the meals my wife cooks. But I do love to cook Taiwanese beef noodle soup for my wife.
What are the qualities of a perfect teammate?
Considerate, intelligent, and dedicated team player with a strong sense of ownership and time management. A 100% doer who believes that actions speak louder than words.
Where is home for you?
I was born in Manhattan in New York City, raised in Taiwan, then returned to New York for my master's degree, kickstarting my career. I’m currently settled in the Seattle area. All of these places hold significant meaning for me, but if I must choose, I would likely return to Taiwan some day in the future.
If you had to trade lives with a living celebrity who would it be?
My favorite basketball player, Jason Kidd.
What kind of music inspires you? Who is your favorite musician?
I find enjoyment in a wide range of music genres. Each genre conveys unique emotions that aid me in conjuring imagery. Due to this connection, selecting a single favorite musician becomes a challenge. However, lately, Hans Zimmer and Third Party have both found their way onto my list of inspirations.
If you could have a superpower what would it be?
Super-speed/Teleportation
When was the last time you took a moment to enjoy nature? What did you do?
We hiked the Paradise Trail in Mt. Rainier National Park with friends visiting from Taiwan this summer.
What makes you genuinely laugh?
Whenever my brother and I reminisce about the foolish things we did during our childhood.
What are your favorite movies to show to your friends?
No Reservations, About Time, and Begin Again.
If you could eliminate one thing from existence what would it be?
Marine debris.
What was your most memorable day off work or school?
The day my wife and I became a couple. After knowing each other for almost five years, we finally reunited in London on that day. We strolled along the Thames, enjoyed some food, had beer, and then attended a concert by Yo-Yo Ma together.
What’s your dream trip? Or, what’s the next place you want to visit?
Driving around small towns in Provence and enjoying elegant fine dining.
What motivates you to do your best every day?
The belief that there is always room for improvement fuels my motivation. Striving to be better than I was yesterday and continuously raising the bar keeps me engaged.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Difficulty is a gift; the choices made by a person in their most challenging times determine what kind of person they are.
Who do you look up to?
My grandfather, simply because he always has the mindset “You’re never too old to learn.”
