Design Careers Explored in Collaborative Webinar by Seymourpowell and the V&A

Published 3rd July 2024

Aspiring designers, students, teachers and design enthusiasts gathered virtually for an enlightening webinar hosted by Seymourpowell in partnership with the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A). The event provided valuable insights into diverse career paths in design and the multifaceted nature of the industry, drawing from the personal journeys and professional experiences of three designers from Seymourpowell: Oliver Winter, a Senior Design Strategist; Eunbin Kim, a Creative Technologist; and Amelia Wong, a Product Designer.

Personal Journeys and Professional Insights

The session featured speakers from Seymourpowell who shared their unique routes into the design profession.

Oliver recounted his early fascination with fine art during secondary school, leading him to study a foundation in art and design. This foundational passion for creativity eventually guided them to a career in industrial and product design, emphasising the importance of following one's interests and being open to opportunities as they arise.

Amelia highlighted a non-traditional route into design, starting with a mechanical engineering background before transitioning into strategy consulting. This diverse experience equipped her with a robust skill set applicable across various industries, ultimately guiding them to a career in industrial design.

Diverse Skills and Technologies in Modern Design

Eunbin discussed the importance of developing a broad range of skills and staying abreast of technological advancements in the design field. Participants were encouraged to familiarise themselves with industry-standard software such as Maya, Unity, and Adobe Creative Suite. Additionally, the growing relevance of digital design tools was emphasised, game engines like Unity and Unreal Engine, and the importance of embracing new technologies to stay competitive in the industry.

Sustainability and Material Innovation

Sustainability in design was another key topic. Discussions revolved around the critical role of digital tools in reducing material waste during the prototyping phase. By leveraging virtual reality and digital prototyping, designers can minimise physical waste, contributing to more sustainable design practices.

Q&A Session: Engaging with the Audience

The webinar concluded with an interactive Q&A session, allowing participants to delve deeper into specific aspects of design careers and industry trends. Questions ranged from the most exciting new materials and technologies in design to practical advice for breaking into the industry.