A unique four-week program focusing on women-centered design across industries aims to empower aspiring women designers and foster gender diversity in leadership.
PLC Detroit, the nation’s first Historically Black College/University (HBCU) dedicated to design, has joined forces with leading footwear brand New Balance to launch ‘W.IN @ PLC Detroit.’
The ‘W.IN @ PLC Detroit’s program will focus on three core design disciplines: Apparel Design, Color & Material Design, and Footwear Design. Students taking part in this initiative will work on a project centered on women in performance, crafting designs for athletes, including those competing in the WNBA. The goal is to drive innovation across various sports categories.
Dr. D’Wayne Edwards, PLC Detroit’s president, states, “Through unprecedented access to industry experts and comprehensive training, we’re empowering the next generation of women designers and innovators with the skills and resources to succeed.”
Under the mentorship of New Balance’s visionary designers and PLC’s industry-expert educators, these aspiring designers will refine their skills and gain essential competencies. Through this collaborative effort, they will contribute to the brand’s longstanding legacy of innovation.
Studies show that organizations with greater gender diversity in leadership roles are more profitable and creative. This especially applies to the footwear industry, where women comprise a significant segment of the consumer market, shaping industry trends and customer demands.
Women designers often contribute unique viewpoints to product development, allowing them to better understand the needs of varied user groups. Studies show that women typically exhibit higher levels of empathy and collaboration, essential traits for crafting innovative footwear that connects with consumers.
Amidst ongoing studies revealing the advantages of gender diversity in leadership, the “W.IN @ PLC Detroit” initiative comes at a critical time. According to a 2023 study, companies with more women in leadership roles experienced 20% higher profitability compared to their industry peers.
Covering the student’s tuition and housing for the program from August 26 to September 20, 2024, PLC Detroit and New Balance will provide a hands-on learning experience. This opportunity will refine students’ design skills and foster essential competencies such as time management, professionalism, and leadership.
A true testament to the power of collaboration and the unwavering dedication to empowering women designers, PLC Detroit and New Balance are paving the way for the next generation of female design leaders to leave an indelible mark on the industry and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
Recognizing the importance of women in design, initiatives like ‘W.IN @ PLC Detroit’ plays a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of women designers and innovators. By empowering and advancing women’s professional success, these programs pave the way for a future where women leaders continue to thrive and drive progress in their fields.
For more information, visit www.plcdetroit.com/newbalance24
Follow PLC Detroit:
- IG: @PLCdetroit
- LinkedIn: PLC Detroit
Discussion about this post