Hey, I'm Mel Linares

Accessibility professional, ux developer, & mentor

As part of the Level Access delivery consulting team I work with brands and government agencies to ensure UX and accessibility are baked-in to digital products.

I started my accessibility and usability journey when I moved to Raleigh, NC to study web & graphic design. 2012 was the year I landed my first full-time job after years of freelancing gigs. During this job I led the charge in a responsive-first design and code overhaul of the company's existing site.

I learned a lot during that first job! How to pitch an idea, how to lead with data, how to rally a group of stubborn developers and stakeholders, how to run a user study, and how to own a project start to finish. Mostly I learned that I have a knack for leadership and a love of accessibility.

desk with raven skeleton, laptop with the text make for good, small telescope and a 3D paper star
myself with long hair, geometric gold glasses, and grinning while wearing earphones
11+ yearsbuilding the web
120+companies consulted

What I'm up to during the week

I conduct remote design reviews
Part of my work at Level Access is assessing prototypes and design systems for UX issues live with clients.
I audit websites, apps, and shareable digital files
Reports (including VPATs) are created and shared with clients that include specific WCAG notes and product recommendations.
I am improving Level Access' methodology
Accessibility + Agile! My team is improving the auditing process for both consultants and clients.
I mentor individuals and teams
I guide new and growing accessibility professionals on tools, process, and development (including JSX/TSX)

What I'm up to when offline

Boardgames
I enjoy playing and teaching people how to play board games. Back in 2019 I was a gamemaster at the convention: Gencon.
Building Lego
I love building Lego sets and nerdy terrariums. The botanical Lego builds are my favorite.
Rollerblading
I can be found learning to roller-blade in my local park.
Collecting
I collect enamel pins, tech stickers, and am getting back into painting.

Contributions & Certifications

Taking notes in preparation for the CPACC exam.

Collections

  • Boardgame collection external link

  • Books I want to add to my collection
    • Alt-Text As Poetry, by Bojana Coklyat and Shannon Finnegan
    • Inclusive Design Patterns, by Heydon Pickering ✔️
    • Sitting Pretty, by Rebekah Taussig ✔️

  • What I want to see and do list

    (places, activities, etc.)
    • participate in a GAAD (global accessibility awareness day) event ✔️
    • learn spanish
    • learn ASL (american sign language)
    • go to an escape room ✔️
    • go on a cruise ✔️
    • learn archery

Recent post I love

Want to get in touch?

Contact
If you'd like to reach out to chat or ask me anything, please contact me via email.

Mentoring
If you want to schedule some time to talk shop or goals check out my Calendly.

Work Inquiries
I'm, not currently taking on new projects.