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New Balance and PLC Detroit: A Celebration of Design

A New Chapter in Design Education

The Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design (PLC Detroit) is reaching a significant milestone, marking its tenth anniversary of collaboration with New Balance. In this spirit of celebration, they are unveiling the Global Design Capstone, a 10-week program designed to empower budding designers by blending sport, culture, and craftsmanship into innovative products for the renowned footwear giant. This initiative underscores their shared commitment to broadening access to design education and nurturing emerging talent.

The Capstone's Unique Challenge

Dubbed One City. One Sport, the capstone's theme invites teams to create a premium, high-performance product line inspired by a city's significant sport, its rich cultural energy, and craftsmanship techniques. This challenge not only aligns with current market demands but also fosters a fusion of performance-oriented design that respects traditional craft.

Dr. D'Wayne Edwards, President of PLC Detroit, articulated the foundational aim of this initiative: "Our partnership has always concentrated on cultivating opportunities, preparing students with the necessary skills and experience to lead in design."

Over the years, New Balance has enlisted over 35 alumni from PLC Detroit into full-time roles, highlighting the tangible impact this partnership has had on the workforce. Dr. Edwards enthusiastically noted, "By collaborating closely with industry, we see the potential that exists when education and professional environments unite with a common objective. This capstone marks a new phase of our commitment to crafting the future of design."

Innovative Design Inspired by Diverse Cities

Beginning on August 24, 16 selected participants will converge in interdisciplinary teams to tackle a New Balance design brief. The projects will draw inspiration from four iconic cities and their core sports: basketball from Paris, cricket in Delhi, football in Rio de Janeiro, and baseball in Tokyo. Each project will embrace the craftsmanship traditions and cultural narratives inherent in each sport and locale, guiding participants in their quest to design groundbreaking footwear and apparel tailored for female athletes.

Dr. Edwards emphasizes the program's role as a pivotal workforce development initiative: "This training prepares emerging designers to thrive in a global marketplace. The future belongs to those who comprehend the nuances of culture and the lifestyle of consumers worldwide."

Unlike traditional academic settings, this program emphasizes hands-on experience. Participants will engage collaboratively across Footwear Design, Apparel Design, and Color & Material Design segments, partnering with New Balance's designers and faculty from PLC. The practical experience gained from tackling real-world design briefs culminates in the creation of portfolio-worthy prototypes in the college’s Concept Maker Labs. This unique approach not only augments their learning but fosters creativity within industry constraints.

Final Presentation and Application Details

Only 16 participants will be selected for this enriching program, with the finale set for October 29. The program is open for applications until July 26 for U.S. residents aged 18 and up. For aspiring designers eager to channel their creativity into impactful work, this represents a chance to learn from industry leaders, network, and contribute positively to the future of design.

Their journey begins here, bridging decades of experience and fresh ideas, echoing the sentiment of collaboration between PLC Detroit and New Balance: when passion for design meets real-world application, the possibilities are limitless.

For further information and to apply, interested individuals can visit the official registration link provided by PLC Detroit.